

Power & Electrical Supplies
Copper alloys and aluminum are essential for power distribution and electrical repair. OnlineMetals.com offers a wide range of these materials in bars, strips, and tubes, with custom processing available to meet your exact specifications.
Here is a list of products that are both in the extracted product list from the metalworking primer and available on OnlineMetals.com, with descriptions of their key attributes and applications specific to power distribution and electrical repair:
Copper
Copper is a tried and true metal alloy lauded for its exceptional electrical conductivity and reliability. Whether it's crafting conductors, bus bars, or power transmission components, copper stands as a steadfast choice, delivering efficient power transfer while ensuring durability and ease of fabrication.
5052 Aluminum
5052, a durable aluminum alloy that boasts excellent corrosion resistance and high electrical conductivity. Whether it's forming bus bars or creating electrical enclosures, 5052 is a reliable choice for transmitting power efficiently, all while offering exceptional durability and ease of fabrication.
FAQs
Galvanized steel, aluminum alloys like 6063 and 5052, and stainless steel are commonly used for their strength, durability, corrosion resistance, bendability, and cost-effectiveness.
Minimum thicknesses range from 10 to 14 gauge (0.090" to 0.075") for carbon steel. Larger panels require thicker materials. Aluminum may need to be thicker than steel for equivalent strength.
Aluminum is lighter, more corrosion-resistant, and easier to fabricate, but more expensive. Steel is heavier, less corrosion-resistant, and cheaper. Choose aluminum for lightweight, corrosive environments. Choose steel for heavy-duty, budget-constrained projects.
Outdoor components require corrosion-resistant materials like stainless/galvanized steel or fiberglass. Additional treatments like galvanizing, powder/epoxy coatings, anodizing, and weather-resistant paints are used. Indoor components have less stringent requirements.
UL standards specify safety and performance tests. NEC sets minimum requirements for installations. NEMA standards complement UL/NEC and define enclosure ratings. ASTM provides material specifications. Standards cover galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminum, coatings, and fasteners.