[theatretch85]

I have a length of 6/4 Aluminum cable that I'd like to use as a 40 amp feeder to a small sub panel in my attached garage. I can get a picture of the cable later today but one thing I do remember about the cable is that it does not have the ground wrap around all the conductors, its un-insulated and is twisted all by itself.

Question is, can I use this through the wall and run to a sub panel in my garage? I already know everything there is to connecting a subpanel, I am just questioning the use of the aluminum cable I have.

Edit: its type SE/SER cable, see the attached picture....

 

[InPhase277]

I have a length of 6/4 Aluminum cable that I'd like to use as a 40 amp feeder to a small sub panel in my attached garage. I can get a picture of the cable later today but one thing I do remember about the cable is that it does not have the ground wrap around all the conductors, its un-insulated and is twisted all by itself.

Question is, can I use this through the wall and run to a sub panel in my garage? I already know everything there is to connecting a subpanel, I am just questioning the use of the aluminum cable I have.

Edit: its type SE/SER cable, see the attached picture....

Knock yourself out. This type of cable is used like this all the time. Just do yourself a favor and use an antioxidant compound on the connections.

 

[Stubbie]

Agreed, SER AL (service entrance---round type) may likely be the most common sub-panel feeder for 40 and above amps used by electricians with nm-b being the most commonly used by do it yourselfers up to 60 amps. You cannot go underground with it though. SER sounds like just the ticket for your application.

 

[theatretch85]

Awesome, got it from a buddy who's store closed down and got some electrical stuff for cheap. Just need a small sub panel for outlets to run some tools, air compressor, possibly a welder down the road (small one). This run will be a short run (probably about 50 feet) and would be easy to change out in the future if needs change. Thanks!