Mechanical lugs form a core part of the home electrical system. These lugs are primarily used for the purpose of connecting cables. Clamps that connect wires to an automotive battery are a simple example of lugs. They constitute two metals- Aluminum and copper. As far as the functionality of these lugs is concerned, copper and aluminium lugs are sort of similar to each other. In brief, they serve the same purpose. The only difference is the nature of the lugs and their application in the system.
What are Aluminum lugs?
Aluminum lugs are the most prevalent and most used kind of lugs. Aluminum lugs are more cost-effective than copper lugs. Aluminum lugs have lower productivity and require higher maintenance. Aluminum is used in many industries. An example of such a sector is energy distribution.
Back in 1960, aluminum was commonly used and was profusely used in each wiring system. Aluminum lugs are easy to install and maintain in good condition. There is a protective coating on them. This coating protects them from shocks and destruction to nearby conductors and equipment. The Aluminum U Lug is one of the four kinds of lugs which is preferred by electricians. These U Lugs are usually used in relays, timers and other electronic devices. A variety of insulation colours and sizes are available. Since all the electric wires are made up of aluminum metal, it is better to use aluminum lugs at the connection juncture.
When aluminum is heated, it expands and contracts and cools fast. Due to the aluminium wiring, lugs can wear out easily and quickly in comparison to copper lugs. One of the drawbacks of using aluminum lugs is that there are too many terminations. Aluminum connection junctures often fail as a result of which electrical fires take place frequently. Aluminum lugs are not considered to be quite safe. Thus, aluminum lugs are not an apt fit for electrical functioning. And thus, copper is regarded as a more reliable and effective substitution.
What are copper lugs?
A copper lug also called a Copper Cable Lug is a significant component of an electrical tool that is used to connect the wire with electrical gadgets such as cables, devices etc. Copper lugs can be used on fuse blocks, distribution blocks, starters etc.
What are copper lugs made of?
All the copper lugs that are available are made of E- copper. E -copper is a sort of copper that has the features of high conductivity i.e it has the ability to handle a great amount of electrical current and also has comparatively high corrosion resistance indicating that it consists of strong resistance against negative elements that can destroy the product.
Why are Copper lugs better?
Copper lugs gained recognition due to the convenience it offers. Copper lugs can end all the issues that are found in aluminum lugs. It does not lead to any hazards that can be dangerous such as aluminum. At present, copper wiring systems are being utilized globally. Copper consists of low resistivity, making it a brilliant conductor. As compared to other metals, it is less oxidative and thus copper does not rust easily. One does not need to be bothered by the rust if copper lugs and wires are used. When direct fastening methods are not required or viable, then copper lugs come useful.
Copper lugs are more reliable than aluminum lugs in several ways. However, copper lugs are not as cheap as aluminum lugs. Copper lugs are still considered more convenient in terms of work or repairing or fixing something. Copper lugs are apt for massive gauge applications such as grounding and power draw.
Application of copper lugs
- Copper lugs are used to connect cables to electrical devices which is one of the chief uses of copper lugs.
- They transmit electrical current between two or more electrical wires. Copper lugs offer the best electrical performance and therefore they are considered the most suitable for high voltage connections.
- Copper lugs can be effectively used in electronic appliances as well as power cable systems.
- There is sufficient safe handling with respect to copper lugs and they are efficiently used in fuse sockets, switches, electrical mechanisms, power circuits etc.
- An electrical tool is connected by a copper lug on one end while the other ends are connected to the terminals of the electrical gadgets.
- The diameter of a thick cable can be reduced with the help of copper lugs in order to attach it to a cable of a smaller diameter.
Some of the areas where a copper lug is extensively used:
Power distribution cabinets – Shipyards, distribution boxes, household appliances, machine room line.
Mechanical equipment factories – factory equipment, electrical equipment factories, metal processing, production processes.