JenniferLee
08.06.2021 0:24:15
Unlike pure copper wire, copper-clad aluminum uses an aluminum wire core with a thin copper plating. From the outside, it misleadingly looks the same because of the plating. [links]
See full version: What Size Speaker Wire Is Right? The Right Gauge, Type, And More
Unlike pure copper wire, copper-clad aluminum uses an aluminum wire core with a thin copper plating. From the outside, it misleadingly looks the same because of the plating. [links]
Speaker wire doesn’t have just one size (gauge). Most speaker wire follows the American Wire Gauge (AWG) standard that uses a chart of different gauges. It assigns a number to each standard size & electrical conductor rating. Likewise, each size is rated for a certain amount of electrical current capacity. here
The “silver” wire is actually copper wire that’s been lightly coated (“tinned”) in most cases.
I strongly recommend you don’t bother with solid wire as it’s not worth the risk or hassle. Many kinds of solid wire (like for home outlet wiring) have insulation that’s super hard to strip, too. here
For the easiest possible remove of wire insulation, automatic wire strippers, available from about $15, are wonderful and make the work super easy to do. here
Crimp connectors are reliable and easier to use, too. It’s a simple as stripping the speaker wire, twisting the wire strands tightly, then inserting them into the connector and then crimping it tightly on each end.
Is tinned wire better? Well, it is more corrosion resistant, but the truth is, the un-tinned wire has been used for years and provides a more-than-adequate service life in most cases. [links]
In fact, many boaters are of the belief that the American Boat and Yacht Council mandates the use of tinned wire in its electrical standards. Well, this whole matter falls into the maritime legend category. here
All the workmanship seems to be in good order, with all connections and terminations made with Ancor crimped connectors and sealed in shrink tubing. All the wiring is the proper gauge (AWG) stranded wire.
The matter of tinned wire being the only type accepted as “marine grade” is rather interesting. Ancor was perhaps the first vendor to the boating market to supply tinned copper wire and label it as “marine grade.” It was a brilliant marketing move because now many people think that tinned wire is the only legitimate wire to use on boats. here
Steven Krenz,
Vilya , Catalina 25,
Corpus Christi, Texas here
Without exposure to moisture or salt air, the un-tinned wire will last as long as the tinned. (A good online source for heat shrink products is www.nationalstandardparts.com .)
Boaters and marine technicians can upgrade any boat’s wiring system with our extremely popular marine electrical kits. These wiring kits contain everything needed for a variety of maritime wiring project and feature connectors, disconnects, shrink tubing, wire ties, and various tools to keep any craft’s electrical system seaworthy. If you need advice selecting and installing marine wires , give our knowledgeable staff a call. We’ll be glad to assist you!
Wholesale Marine’s inventory of battery cables and wires are built with the highest quality materials. Every marine grade battery cable and wire has been designed specifically to survive the harshest marine environments. Our marine battery boat wiring and cables feature fine stranded copper with each strand completely tin-plated. Tinned copper will resist corrosion and ensure safe and secure operation for many years to come. Wire and hose clamps protect marine wires. We feature various styles and sizes designed to keep your boat’s wire and cable runs safe and secure. For example, a popular choice is Sea Dog’s Right Angle Push-On /Male Spade Connector w/Lead . You’ll get two leads, one red, one black, and a push on and male spade connector.
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Whatever your recreational craft requires, Wholesale Marine has it. If you need help selecting the right wires , our representatives will be glad to assist you. We’re here for you Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM until 6:00 PM EST at (877) 388-2628. Additionally, we offer a low price guarantee, and same day, flat rate shipping. You’ll always receive the best customer service even if you are returning an item. We want to be your one-stop boat shop so you can always make your Wholesale Marine purchases with confidence. For extra savings, be sure to ask about our Customer Loyalty Program [links]
Dear Boat Doctor,
I am trying to settle a debate with a friend. We are considering some wiring projects and discussing the type of wire to use. I feel it is important use marine-grade wire, but my buddy feels it is a waste of money, that marine-grade wire is the same as automotive-grade wire.
Dear Bill,
In general, automotive wire can be used on boats, assuming that it is SAE (Society of Automotive Engineering) J378, J1127 or J1128 rated, but it is not recommended. Marine-specific wire is unique in a few ways.
Most importantly, marine wire is larger for a given gauge size, up to 12% larger in some sizes. If you choose to use SAE wire, you must allow for this difference when using commonly available marine voltage drop tables. more