A questionnaire encouraging consumers to self-inspect their homes for telltale signs of electrical problems. Contains ten questions with explanations. Also contains a list of questions to ask an electrician or electrical contractor in order to assess their qualifications.

Heat is one of the enemies of electrical systems. This study discusses the effects of ambient temperature and electrical loading on bundled cable and of direct sunlight on conductors in conduits. The results carry great import in determining ampacity corrections required to meet the National Electrical Code®. When de-rating tables are not applied in practice, serious consequences can result. Reprint, IAEI News, September 2003

Crimped and mechanically bolted aluminum and copper connectors are commonly used for terminating electric power cables. In this study, copper-to-copper, aluminum-to-copper, and aluminum-to-aluminum connections were subjected to accelerated aging. The all-copper connections performed best. This is the full report.

This IEEE Paper, presented at the 2005 Industry Applications Conference, reports on testing of aluminum and copper power connectors. The performance of copper and aluminum connectors was compared by conducting accelerated aging tests. The connectors were evaluated by comparing the change in resistance of the test samples as the test progressed. The results of these tests point to a high level of failure of the aluminum connectors.

The data presented has been revised for the 2011 NEC and 2009 ASHRAE temperature data. The table provides the average summer 2% design temperatures for various U.S and Canadian cities, as well as the elevated ambient temperature inside rooftop raceway exposed to direct sunlight.

“Inspectors and Contractors Prefer Larger Gages and More Circuits” A recent survey of electrical inspectors, contractors and instructors indicated an overwhelming preference for more circuits, larger gages than Code minimums, and copper conductors in their own homes.

Colorful, six page summary of the results of the aluminum and copper connector study detailed below, with photographs and a description of the research and results.

Underwriters Laboratories (UL) examined every possible rooftop wiring method to determine conductor temperatures as a result of exposure to direct sunlight at various heights above the roof. This DVD describes the methodology and findings of the experiments. The results can be used in determining ampacity corrections required to meet the National Electrical Code®.
1 free (add’l $2.00 ea)

A report by Powertech Labs of research they recently conducted into wiring systems showed a very high (up to 100%) failure rate for aluminum systems in mechanical connectors, irrespective of conductor preparation, conductive greases or torque levels when tested according to an IEC method. Copper conductors in copper connectors passed in every case.

A short article explaining the Powertech study of copper and aluminum wiring systems, and summarizing the results.  In this study of connectability, copper systems clearly outperformed alternates.