When might aluminum wire be used in terminals?

Aluminum wire can be utilized in terminals particularly when weight is a concern. Aluminum is significantly lighter than copper, making it advantageous in applications where reducing weight is critical, such as in aerospace, automotive, or portable equipment. Its lower density means that using aluminum wire can help maintain an overall lighter system, which can lead to improved performance and fuel efficiency in vehicles or aircraft.

In contrast, while aluminum is less conductive than copper, it is often chosen for specific applications where its weight benefits outweigh its slightly lower conductivity. Other factors, like corrosion resistance and cost, also play roles in material selection, but when the priority is minimizing weight, aluminum becomes a preferential choice.