Need advice on electrical for new used Bailey kiln - extension cable or no?

[Mark C.]

The ground is  aluminum  for sure but yes the new wires should be copper including the ground.

[neilestrick]

2 hours ago, Msheffield said:

Also, my dad just noted that the wire is actually aluminum but connected to copper fittings, and he was thinking maybe that was a bad combo? I have no idea. But when I get the new wires, should I get copper?

Yes, you need copper. Aluminum is not recommended for kiln circuits.

[Bill Kielb]

10 hours ago, Msheffield said:

the wire is actually aluminum but connected to copper fitting

Yes best case aluminum to copper terminations require regular maintenance and often compound (anti oxidant paste) along with maintenance to ensure the connections remain safe, tight and well connected. If you use compound, they are made specifically for the metal in the wire and termination. Codes usually dictate this specifically. Aluminum wire must also be derated so in the table below #6 wire copper = 55 amps @ 60c terminal rating and #6 Aluminum is derated to carry ONLY 40 amps @ 60c terminal rating.

Aluminum and kilns, strongly discouraged.

Edited yesterday at 08:01 AM by Bill Kielb