Copper Wire vs Aluminium Wire

When it comes to signage, shopfitting, or any electronic project, selecting the right wiring is essential to ensure reliability, longevity, and performance. Good wiring ensures stable electrical connections, prevents malfunctions, and enhances the overall performance of your installations. Here, we are going to compare two commonly used types of wire: aluminum and copper, to help you make the best choice.

Detailed Considerations on Copper vs. Aluminium

For centuries, copper has been the go-to choice for electrical applications because of its stellar properties. But as costs have gone up, people have started looking at aluminium as a cheaper option. Aluminium is lighter and less expensive than copper, but it's only about 60% as conductive (Anixter, n.d.). However, that doesn’t mean aluminium is the clear winner—there are significant drawbacks to think about.

Aluminium Wires : Drawbacks

Installation Costs: More Than Meets the Eye

Aluminium cables may seem cheaper at first glance, but they require more effort and cost to install due to their rigidity and the larger size needed to match copper’s conductivity. This can lead to higher maintenance costs and potential failures.

Lower Conductivity

Aluminium wires have lower electrical conductivity, leading to voltage drops and reduced performance of LED lights and other electronic components.

Size and Flexibility : The Hidden Costs

To carry the same electrical load as copper, aluminium cables need to be 56% larger(Anixter, n.d). This means larger conduits and cable trays, making the installation more complex and expensive. It also reduces the flexibility of the wiring system.

Environmental and Design Factors: Potential Pitfalls

Aluminium can rust easily, especially in salty environments, which hurts its performance over time. Plus, it expands and contracts more with temperature changes, which can loosen connections and cause overheating or even electrical fires. This makes aluminium less reliable for long-term use.

Copper Wires : Superior in Every Way

Higher Conductivity

Copper has much higher electrical conductivity than aluminium, meaning it can carry more current with less resistance. This results in brighter and more efficient LED lighting.

Durability and Flexibility

Copper is more durable and flexible compared to aluminium. It withstands bending and twisting without breaking, making it easier to install and less likely to fail over time.

Longevity and Reliability

Copper's resistance to moisture, heat, and chemicals makes it a reliable choice for long-term use, ensuring consistent performance throughout the lifespan of the installation.

Thermal Conductivity

Copper handles higher temperatures without degrading, reducing the risk of overheating and increasing overall safety.

Compatibility with Connectors

Copper is compatible with standard electrical connectors and fittings, simplifying installation and maintenance.

Summary : Copper Wire is Better than Aluminum Wire

In summary, despite the initial allure of aluminium wire's lower cost, copper wire emerges as the preferred option for electrical wiring. Its superior safety profile, enhanced conductivity, and longevity make it the clear choice for residential and commercial projects alike.

Wait a second! If there's a game-changing option that takes things to the next level, do you believe it? the copper(pure or bare) conductor can be coated with tin for protection against corrosion. For those aiming to elevate your electrical installations to new heights, tinned-coated copper wires offer a transformative solution. Here’s why they stand out:

Unmatched Corrosion Resistance

The tin coating provides superior protection against corrosion and oxidation, ensuring long-term durability and reliability even in harsh conditions.

Enhanced Solderability

Tinning simplifies and secures soldering, ensuring smoother and more reliable connections during installation and maintenance.

Increased Flexibility:

These wires are more flexible than bare copper, facilitating easier handling and installation in tight spaces while maintaining high performance.

Conclusion: Choose Copper for Your Projects

Choosing between standard copper wire and tinned-coated copper wires depends on your project's specific needs. While both options surpass aluminium wire in terms of performance and reliability, tinned-coated copper wires represent the premium choice. They offer advanced technology and enhanced benefits that make them optimal for discerning customers seeking top-tier quality.

SA-LED Australia exclusively handles this advanced range to ensure rigorous quality control and utmost customer satisfaction. Here's our premium range of tinnted coated copper wire below.

SEE OUR RANGE OF LED WIRE PRODUCTS