1 AWG AA8000 Aluminum XHHW-2 Wire UL 44 600V XLPE Insulated Building Cable

This wire features a AA8000 aluminum conductor (AA-8000 series electrical aluminum alloy), manufactured to ASTM B800 and B836 standards. Unlike conventional 1350 pure aluminum, AA-8000 alloy has significantly improved creep resistance and long-term connection reliability. It maintains stable contact pressure at terminals through repeated thermal cycling, greatly reducing the risk of loose connections and overheating common with pure aluminum wiring.

Yes. The XHHW-2 variant carries a full 90°C temperature rating for both wet and dry locations under UL 44 certification, making it suitable for underground conduit, damp industrial spaces, and outdoor raceway installations. Standard XHHW grade is rated 75°C for wet locations and requires appropriate derating. Note: this wire is designed for raceway/conduit installation, not for direct burial without conduit protection.

AA8000 aluminum has a conductivity of approximately 61.8% IACS, so 1 AWG aluminum wire has a lower ampacity than 1 AWG copper. For equivalent current-carrying capacity, aluminum conductors typically require 1–2 AWG sizes larger than copper. However, AA-8000 aluminum wire offers substantial cost savings and roughly 50% lower weight per foot, making it highly cost-effective for long-distance feeder runs and large-scale distribution projects.

First, always use UL-listed aluminum-rated terminals and connectors- never use standard copper terminals, as this causes galvanic corrosion and connection failure. Second, follow NEC Article 310 ampacity tables and correction factors for ambient temperature and conductor bundling. Third, match conductor temperature ratings to panel/breaker terminal ratings (most terminals are 75°C rated). Proper crimping tools and procedures are required to ensure long-term connection reliability.