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Aluminum wire splices

Aluminum wire splices

Aluminum wire splices

(OP)
We're doing a 1000' 480V, 3p 750 mcm al power feed up a mountain to feed snow guns.  Since we have such a hefty cable, initially we would like to do an ingrade box and tap a #6 copper or #1 Aluminum feed off of the 750 mcm to feed the individual 60a3p snow guns.  

What is the best method of tapping the 750 mcm aluminum?  Is there an assembly or standard tap that we could specify? Should we only tap aluminum to aluminum?

Stan

RE: Aluminum wire splices

The insulated tap blocks will take AL or CU just fine however my experience shows that the setscrew connectors don't perform very well for long periods of time as they loosen up.  I assume you're installing fused disconnects at the tap points for protection of the tap conductors to the individual snow guns?  I'd probably terminate the 750 AL with a NEMA two-hole compression lug at each tap point and use another NEMA two-hole compression lug for the taps bolting the three lugs together then using tape as required for insulation in a pull-box / access enclosure.

RE: Aluminum wire splices

Suggest the insulation piercing connectors.  No taping needed.  I think Blackburn and others make them.

RE: Aluminum wire splices

Going up a hill with skiers, rocks, rain, snow, and snow making machines running around sounds like you are going to need well protected or amored cable and taps.

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