While bus bar may not be the most common type of aluminum product on the market, there are specialized producers and marketers of this very specialized plate. These producers have created bus bar that is ideal for use in the electrical industry with flatness, weldability and electrical conductivity as key components.
For all types of applications where it is important to have electrical conductivity through the bus bar that is uniform and consistent, choosing electrical grade aluminum bus bar will be an important decision. There are some manufacturers of bus bar that do not provide this type of quality product and using that material can result in significant performance issues through any type of electrical application.
Specialized Solutions
One of the best ways to find quality and consistent electrical grade aluminum bus bar is to shop online. Look for a company that is offering a product manufactured under strict quality control guidelines. This is not as difficult as you may think, just search using the terms “electrical grade” and aluminum bus bar and see what you find.
Remember, there is a difference between what you will find from a metal supply company and an aluminum company. The aluminum company that is actually manufacturing the bus plate is going to have full control over the quality and consistency of the product.
The metal supply shop, or even an aluminum wholesaler, is only going to be able to control where they buy from. If they are buying from specific mills or manufacturers and not bringing in the best products, you may find the product is inconsistent at best.
When Quality Matters
Most people working in the electrical installation industry will confirm that the switch from copper to aluminum bus bar has resulted in a flooding of the market with inferior product. This is typically marketed at a very low price, particularly when compared to the traditional use of copper.
However, taking the time to ensure you are purchasing electrical grade aluminum bus bar is time well spent. A quality company manufacturing the product will be able to provide full specifications and specifics about the product.
This will include specifics on the chemical composition of the alloy. For heat dissipation and electrical conductivity look for a minimum aluminum content of 99.7% by weight. Iron will be the next element by weight with other elements including manganese, silicon, zinc and copper adding just slightly amounts by weight percentage.
