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Service Line To Studio To Power Kiln- Aluminum Okay?


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Okay...so I've got a rudimentary understanding of the electrical needs of various kilns.  I plan on getting a ~5 cubic foot kiln but want to wire my garage (detached) for possible future upgrades/power needs .  Both electricians I have spoken with suggesting bringing 100amps out there (in addition to what is already there) and I have requested the kiln outlet have a 60amp breaker.  The electrician I spoke with today looked at me like I had 10 heads when I said I wanted copper wire from the house to the garage and said the copper wire only needs to be from the "box" in the garage and the service wire to the garage can be aluminum.  So I guess my question is if it is okay for the service line to be aluminum if the garage internal wiring is copper?

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Best to find out what the electrical code for your area requires . . . the box and the line will need to be inspected and if they use the wrong wire, you will not be approved.  Also, check to see what the kiln manufacturer recommends.  Also, check with your insurance agent.  Are your electricians licensed? 

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Wire from the pole to the house is most always aluminum. My main service is 200 amps.The drop from pole to panel is aluminum. My underground 100 amp sub panel in seperate outbuilding is  feed with  aluminum wire. The wire from the sub panel in studio to kilns is copper. Electricians know how to coat the ends of aluminum wire so its does not oxidize. Get a licensed electrican to do the work-check references etc

You only need copper wire from panel to kiln and even then it can be in oversized aluminum-but copper is a better conductor and runs cooler and most use it for the shorter runs..

 

(and said the copper wire only needs to be from the "box" in the garage and the service wire to the garage can be aluminum)

He had this right as far as my licensed electrical friend said as he agreed.

Mark

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Great...thanks for clarifying that.  The are both licensed electricians with good references that have been practicing for many years in Albany and would get permits and have their work inspected.  One of them said that he "only works with copper" and the other was confounded at my suggestion of copper for the service line!  Aluminum should bring the cost down considerably!  Thanks for your input!

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