How Does Temperature Impact the Performance of Aluminium Cable Lugs?

Aluminium cable lugs find wide applicability for terminating aluminium conductors in power systems. However, it can be clearly affected by changes in temperature. Aluminium happens to have a comparatively high thermal expansion coefficient, meaning it expands more with an increase in temperature than most metals. When the current flows, it heats the contact points of the conductor; if the lug is not properly crimped or torqued, then the expansion sets the lug free at the connection, and hence resistance begins to increase with the possibility of eventual failure.

In contrast, it may shrink under cold conditions when contact pressure decreases, hence bad conductivity. Continuous heating and cooling (thermal cycling) will deteriorate the joint more with repeated instances if not installed properly to compensate for such variations. Aluminum surfaces can get oxidized due to exposure to excessive heat, raising the resistance and further degrading performance.

The best way to guard against these hazards is to use the appropriate rating for lugs, apply anti-oxidation compounds, and install them correctly. The lugs should be regularly inspected for evidence of overheating or loosening. 

Therefore, temperature makes for the greatest factor affecting the reliability and lifespan of aluminium cable lugs, and as such, proper installation and maintenance are vital to achieve the best performance.