Before we dive deeper, let us understand what is CCA wire. What is CCA (Copper Clad Aluminum)? This means that the wire consists of two different metals: copper in the outside layer and aluminum in the inner layer. The copper is plated to the aluminum, which then forms a strong, reliable wire. While the copper on the outside helps conduct electricity well, the aluminum on the inside keeps the wire lightweight and manageable. The net effect of these factors is a pretty good choice for CCA wire in many electrical situations.
Here are some of the reasons to use CCA wire in home wiring. The primary reason is cost — it costs less than pure copper wire. Copper is a precious metal and it is a good conductor of electricity. That being said, virgin copper wire is generally very costly. CCA wire is a less expensive option, yet still effective for carrying electrical current.
But lets discuss some advantages and some disadvantages of using CCA wire. The biggest advantage is that it is more affordable than pure copper wire, which allows you to save money, especially if you are pursuing a large project. And its lightweight nature and ease of workability means it's a popular material used for many DIY projects and home renovations.
But there are also some potential downsides to consider. For one thing, CCA wire may not be as rugged as pure copper wire. Unfortunately, over time, this aluminum dissipates and starts to deteriorate and corrode the wire complicating the flow of electricity through it. That is important to keep in mind, particularly in the case of long-term use.
Furthermore, CCA wire may be unable to support as much electricity as pure copper wire. This means if you’re using it for high-demand apps — running heavy machines or multiple appliances at the same time — it may not perform optimally for your needs. So it’s important to consider how you intend to use the wire.
Now, we will discuss the differences between CCA wire and pure copper wire. Copper wire is also the best conductor of electricity that can carry electricity perfectly. This is great for electrical applications where you want a strong and consistent flow of electricity. The price, however, is that pure copper wire is much more expensive than CCA wire on many occasions.
Consider Electrical Needs: Assess how much power will be required for your project specific. In case you are utilizing the wire for something basic, as basic as wiring lighting or little machines, at that point CCA wire could be a reasonable decision. If you plan on using it for more substantial appliances or spaces that pull a lot of electricity, though, you may want to opt for pure copper wire instead.