Copper has 100% IACS conductivity vs aluminum's 61%—aluminum needs approximately 1. 6 times larger cross-section for same ampacity. However, aluminum is 70% lighter and 40-60% cheaper per equivalent current capacity per NEC Table 310. Understanding the differences between copper and aluminum optical cable ground wire fittings can help you make an informed decision for your project. Optical cable ground wire fittings are essential components. Copper vs aluminum cable comparison: 61% conductivity difference, cost analysis, weight advantages, and reliability factors with sizing tables and NEC/IEC compliance guidelines for electrical installations. Copper, with its superior conductivity and stable physical-chemical characteristics, remains the preferred choice for. For 25 years Copper & Optic has been providing the highest quality electronic manufacturing services. Optical signal goes through attenuation when it travels down the fiber, and after a few hundreds of kilometers, it needs to be amplified to reach its destination, which is typically thousands of kilometers away. Even when stripping back the cable jacket to expose the twisted pairs you still cannot tell the difference.
