The AA-8000 series aluminum wire is the modern, industry-standard aluminum conductor used in residential, commercial, and industrial electrical systems. It was developed to solve the safety issues associated with older aluminum wiring from the 1960s and 1970s. Today, AA-8000 aluminum conductors are UL-listed, NEC-approved, and widely used for feeders, service entrance cables, and large power distribution circuits.
8000 Series Aluminum Alloy Flat Concentric Cable ASTM Standard
This guide explains what AA-8000 aluminum wire is, why it replaced older alloys, and where it is used.
⭐ What Is AA-8000 Series Aluminum Wire?
The AA-8000 series refers to a group of special aluminum alloys specifically engineered for electrical conductors. These alloys contain small amounts of iron and copper, giving them:
Higher strength
Better flexibility
Better fatigue resistance
Improved creep resistance (less deformation under heat)
More stable electrical connections
Because of these properties, AA-8000 aluminum wire is the only aluminum conductor acceptable for household branch circuits and feeders, per the National Electrical Code (NEC).
⭐ Why AA-8000 Replaced Older Aluminum Wiring (AA-1350)
Homes built between 1965 and 1972 often used AA-1350 aluminum wire, which caused dangerous failures such as:
Loose connections
Overheating
Arcing
House fires
This happened because AA-1350 was too soft, expanded excessively under load, and created unreliable connections at switches, receptacles, and fixtures.
To fix these issues, manufacturers created the AA-8000 series—a significantly improved conductor that:
Maintains tighter connections
Handles heat better
Does not creep or deform easily
Is mechanically stronger and more flexible
Since 1972, AA-8000 aluminum has been the required standard for building wire in the U.S.
⭐ Properties of AA-8000 Aluminum Conductors
1. Higher Mechanical Strength
The improved alloy resists breakage and withstands bending or pulling during installation.
2. Better Thermal Stability
AA-8000 expands less than older alloys, keeping terminals tight and preventing overheating.
3. Lower Creep
'Creep' is the slow deformation under heat.
AA-1350 had high creep, causing loose connections.
AA-8000 has much lower creep, making it safer for long-term use.
4. Good Conductivity
Although copper still conducts better, AA-8000 aluminum maintains excellent ampacity and is a safe alternative when sized properly.
⭐ Where AA-8000 Aluminum Wire Is Used
AA-8000 aluminum wire is used in many modern cable types, including:
1. SER / SEU Cable (Service Entrance Cable)
For feeding panels, subpanels, and meter bases.
2. XHHW-2 Aluminum Building Wire
Common for residential and commercial feeders.
3. URD Cable (Underground Residential Distribution)
Used by utilities for underground power.
4. Mobile Home Feeder Cable
Standardized by NEC.
5. MC Aluminum Cable
For commercial installations.
6. Large-Gauge Feeder Circuits
Service sizes like:
100A
150A
200A
400A
Most electricians use AA-8000 aluminum SER cable for these applications due to its cost savings.
⭐ Is AA-8000 Aluminum Wiring Safe?
Yes. AA-8000 series aluminum conductors are safe when installed correctly.
They are:
UL Listed
NEC Approved
Standard in modern construction
Used by utility companies everywhere
It is not the same as the problematic aluminum wiring from the 1960s.
Key safety requirements:
Use AL/CU or CO/ALR-rated devices
Use antioxidant compound (e.g., Noalox or Penetrox) when required
Torque lugs to manufacturer specifications
Use proper connectors rated for aluminum
When installed properly, AA-8000 aluminum wiring is as safe as copper in large-gauge applications.
⭐ AA-8000 Aluminum vs Copper Wire
| Feature | AA-8000 Aluminum | Copper |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | ⭐ Much cheaper | Expensive |
| Weight | ⭐ Very light | Heavy |
| Conductivity | Good | ⭐ Excellent |
| Creep / Expansion | Improved and stable | Very low |
| Strength | Good | ⭐ High |
| Corrosion Resistance | Requires antioxidant | ⭐ Natural resistance |
| Best Use | Feeders, SE cable, long runs | Branch circuits, small gauge |
⭐ Why Contractors Choose AA-8000 Aluminum Wire
✔ Significant cost savings
✔ NEC-approved for feeders and branch circuits
✔ Much lighter and easier to pull
✔ Safe and reliable with modern connectors
✔ Excellent for long-distance power distribution
For panel feeders and service entrance cables, AA-8000 is the industry standard.
⭐ Conclusion: AA-8000 Series Aluminum Wire Is the Modern Standard
AA-8000 aluminum wire has completely replaced older aluminum alloys and is now one of the most commonly used conductors in the electrical industry. It delivers a safe, cost-effective alternative to copper—especially in large feeder cables and service entrance installations.
