Copper vs. Aluminum Physical Properties Sizer
Contrasting electrical resistivity constants ($K_{Cu}=12.9$ vs. $K_{Al}=21.2$) and physical weight savings.
Aluminum Upsizing Rule:
Because Aluminum conductivity is ~61% of Copper (IACS), Aluminum conductors require approximately 1 to 2 AWG sizes larger than Copper to achieve equivalent ampacity and voltage drop.
Circuit Inputs
Copper (Cu) Baseline
Material Constant: K = 12.9
Estimated Weight: 30.0 lbs
Resistivity Index: 100% (High Efficiency)
Aluminum (Al) Equivalent
Material Constant: K = 21.2
Equivalent Size: 6 AWG Aluminum
Estimated Weight: 14.8 lbs (50% lighter!)