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EC-14 · Supply

Copper Cable and Aluminium Cable Supply

Copper cable and aluminium cable for mains, sub-mains and large supplies. Send one free request and an independent cable supplier near you quotes you directly.

Cut ends of large copper and aluminium cables side by side showing stranded conductors
Cut ends of large copper and aluminium cables side by side showing stranded conductors

Most cable in a home is copper cable, but on large mains supplies, sub-mains and utility networks aluminium cable is widely used because it is lighter and costs less for the same current. Choosing between them affects price, cable size, terminations and even theft risk. ElectricalCable.co.za does not sell cable. Tell us what you need, the size, length and where you are, and we pass your request to an independent cable supplier or electrical contractor in your area, who quotes you directly. There is no cost and no obligation.

Copper cable

Copper is the best common conductor: it carries more current for its size, is easy to terminate, bends well and resists corrosion. That is why house wire, surfix, flex and most small armoured cables use copper, and why it is the default for final circuits. The downside is cost. Price for copper cable follows the world copper price, which can move sharply, and copper's scrap value makes cable theft a serious problem in South Africa.

Aluminium cable

Aluminium conducts less well than copper, so an aluminium cable has to be a size or two larger to carry the same current. It is still much lighter and usually cheaper for large sizes, which is why municipalities, Eskom and large sites use it for mains, sub-mains and overhead lines. Aluminium armoured cable and aluminium XLPE cable are common from about 25 mm² upward. Its lower scrap value also makes it less attractive to thieves.

Aluminium vs copper cable

The aluminium vs copper cable choice comes down to size and connection points:

  • Small circuits: copper is standard and aluminium is generally not used
  • Large feeders: aluminium can save significantly on long, heavy runs
  • Terminations: aluminium needs aluminium or bimetallic lugs, oxide-inhibiting compound and correct torque
  • Space: larger aluminium cable needs bigger glands, trays and trenches

An electrical engineer or contractor should size the cable to SANS 10142-1 for the load, length and installation method.

Copper cable for sale and pricing

Suppliers sell copper cable for sale and aluminium cable by the metre, in cut lengths or on full drums. Price depends on the metal price on the day, conductor size, number of cores, armoured or unarmoured construction, insulation type and delivery. Quotes are often valid for a short time because of metal price swings. If you are pricing a large feeder, ask for both copper and aluminium options so you can compare.

Comparing copper and aluminium cable prices

Cable prices change with the copper price, size, brand and quantity. When quotes arrive, check:

  • Exact specification: size in mm², cores, conductor, insulation, armour and voltage rating.
  • Quantity: cut length or full drum, and whether the drum deposit is refundable.
  • Standards: SABS-marked cable to the relevant SANS standard, not unmarked imports.
  • Delivery: lead time, delivery to site and offloading of heavy drums.

What to include in your request

  • Copper, aluminium, or a price for both options
  • Conductor size, number of cores and armoured or not
  • Length required, and cut lengths or full drum
  • Lugs, glands and terminations needed for each end
  • Your suburb, site access and when you need delivery

Frequently asked questions

Is aluminium cable safe?
Yes, when it is correctly sized and terminated. Aluminium feeders are used widely by municipalities and on large sites. Problems arise from poor terminations, so use the right lugs, compound and torque, and have a registered electrician do the work.
Can I use aluminium cable in my house?
Final circuits for plugs and lights in homes are copper. Aluminium is sometimes used for the larger supply cable to a property or outbuilding. Your electrician will advise whether it suits your supply and connection points.
Why does copper cable price change so often?
Copper is traded on world metal markets and its price changes daily with demand and the rand exchange rate. Suppliers adjust cable prices accordingly, which is why quotes for copper cable usually have a short validity period.
Do you sell copper or aluminium cable?
No. ElectricalCable.co.za is a free quote-request service. We pass your request to an independent cable supplier or electrical contractor near you, who quotes you directly. There is no cost and no obligation to accept.

Copper and Aluminium Cable by province

Copper and Aluminium Cable by city

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