ASTM B1005-17(2023)
(Specification)Standard Specification for Copper-Clad Aluminum Bar for Electrical Purposes (Bus Bar)
Standard Specification for Copper-Clad Aluminum Bar for Electrical Purposes (Bus Bar)
ABSTRACT
This specification covers the manufacturing and testing requirements for copper clad aluminum rectangular bar for electrical (bus) applications. Six classes of copper-clad aluminum bar are covered:
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers copper clad aluminum rectangular bar for electrical (bus) applications.
1.2 Six classes of copper-clad aluminum bar are covered as follows:
Class 20A—Nominal 20 volume % copper, annealed.
Class 25A—Nominal 25 volume % copper, annealed.
Class 30A—Nominal 30 volume % copper, annealed.
Class 20H—Nominal 20 volume % copper, hard-worked.
Class 25H—Nominal 25 volume % copper, hard-worked.
Class 30H—Nominal 30 volume % copper, hard-worked.
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard, except for resistivity and density, where the SI units are the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 30-Sep-2023
- Technical Committee
- B01 - Electrical Conductors
- Drafting Committee
- B01.06 - Bi-Metallic Conductors
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Oct-2023
- Effective Date
- 01-Jan-2024
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2022
Overview
ASTM B1005-17(2023): Standard Specification for Copper-Clad Aluminum Bar for Electrical Purposes (Bus Bar) defines the requirements for copper-clad aluminum rectangular bars used primarily as electrical conductors in bus bar applications. Developed by ASTM International, this standard outlines the classes, manufacture, testing, ordering, and quality assurance practices necessary for these specialized bi-metallic conductors, ensuring consistent performance for electrical distribution systems.
Key Topics
- Material Classes: Six classes of copper-clad aluminum bar are covered, defined by copper volume percentage (20%, 25%, 30%) and temper (annealed "A" or hard-worked "H").
- Manufacturing requirements: Each bar consists of a solid aluminum core uniformly clad with copper, ensuring tight bonding and consistent quality throughout the product.
- Mechanical and Electrical Properties: The specification sets mandatory requirements for tensile strength, elongation, interface bonding, resistivity, and density.
- Testing Procedures: Outlines methods for tension and bend testing (ASTM E8/E8M, E290), resistivity measurement (ASTM B193), and interface shear strength.
- Dimensional Tolerances: Defines allowable tolerances for width, thickness, copper cladding, and edge contouring to meet specific application needs.
- Quality Assurance: Includes guidelines for inspection, retesting, rejection criteria, source inspection, and certification requirements.
- Packaging and Marking: Specifies appropriate packaging methods to protect the bars during handling and transport, as well as clear labeling and marking practices.
Applications
Copper-clad aluminum bus bars are widely used in power distribution and electrical panel construction due to their advantageous balance of conductivity, weight, and cost. Key application areas include:
- Electrical Bus Way Systems: Used as main conductors in switchgear, distribution boards, and panel assemblies.
- High-Current Installations: Suitable for transformers, substations, and other equipment where a combination of high current-carrying capacity and weight savings is important.
- Industrial and Utility Projects: For commercial buildings, industrial automation, and renewable energy systems requiring reliable bi-metallic conductors.
The integration of copper and aluminum allows these bars to deliver efficient conductivity while reducing total material cost and weight, making them attractive for both retrofitting existing systems and incorporating into new builds.
Related Standards
ASTM B1005-17(2023) references several key documents and standards relevant to electrical conductor materials:
- ASTM B193: Test Method for Resistivity of Electrical Conductor Materials
- ASTM B354: Terminology Relating to Uninsulated Metallic Electrical Conductors
- ASTM E8/E8M: Test Methods for Tension Testing of Metallic Materials
- ASTM E290: Test Methods for Bend Testing of Material for Ductility
- ASTM E29: Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data
These referenced standards provide detailed methodologies for testing and verifying the essential mechanical and electrical characteristics outlined in ASTM B1005.
By adhering to ASTM B1005-17(2023), manufacturers, suppliers, and consumers can ensure that copper-clad aluminum bus bars meet internationally recognized quality, performance, and safety standards for electrical applications. This fosters greater reliability, interoperability, and efficiency in electrical infrastructure while aligning with global trade principles as set by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM B1005-17(2023) is a technical specification published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Specification for Copper-Clad Aluminum Bar for Electrical Purposes (Bus Bar)". This standard covers: ABSTRACT This specification covers the manufacturing and testing requirements for copper clad aluminum rectangular bar for electrical (bus) applications. Six classes of copper-clad aluminum bar are covered: SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers copper clad aluminum rectangular bar for electrical (bus) applications. 1.2 Six classes of copper-clad aluminum bar are covered as follows: Class 20A—Nominal 20 volume % copper, annealed. Class 25A—Nominal 25 volume % copper, annealed. Class 30A—Nominal 30 volume % copper, annealed. Class 20H—Nominal 20 volume % copper, hard-worked. Class 25H—Nominal 25 volume % copper, hard-worked. Class 30H—Nominal 30 volume % copper, hard-worked. 1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard, except for resistivity and density, where the SI units are the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only. 1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
ABSTRACT This specification covers the manufacturing and testing requirements for copper clad aluminum rectangular bar for electrical (bus) applications. Six classes of copper-clad aluminum bar are covered: SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers copper clad aluminum rectangular bar for electrical (bus) applications. 1.2 Six classes of copper-clad aluminum bar are covered as follows: Class 20A—Nominal 20 volume % copper, annealed. Class 25A—Nominal 25 volume % copper, annealed. Class 30A—Nominal 30 volume % copper, annealed. Class 20H—Nominal 20 volume % copper, hard-worked. Class 25H—Nominal 25 volume % copper, hard-worked. Class 30H—Nominal 30 volume % copper, hard-worked. 1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard, except for resistivity and density, where the SI units are the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only. 1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
ASTM B1005-17(2023) is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 29.060.10 - Wires. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM B1005-17(2023) has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM B1005-17, ASTM E8/E8M-24, ASTM E8/E8M-22. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM B1005-17(2023) is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: B1005 − 17 (Reapproved 2023)
Standard Specification for
Copper-Clad Aluminum Bar for Electrical Purposes (Bus
Bar)
This standard is issued under the fixed designation B1005; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope E3 Guide for Preparation of Metallographic Specimens
E8/E8M Test Methods for Tension Testing of Metallic Ma-
1.1 This specification covers copper clad aluminum rectan-
terials
gular bar for electrical (bus) applications.
E29 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to
1.2 Six classes of copper-clad aluminum bar are covered as
Determine Conformance with Specifications
follows:
E290 Test Methods for Bend Testing of Material for Ductil-
Class 20A—Nominal 20 volume % copper, annealed.
ity
Class 25A—Nominal 25 volume % copper, annealed.
Class 30A—Nominal 30 volume % copper, annealed.
3. Terminology
Class 20H—Nominal 20 volume % copper, hard-worked.
3.1 Definitions—Refer to Terminology B354 for definition
Class 25H—Nominal 25 volume % copper, hard-worked.
of product terms used in this specification.
Class 30H—Nominal 30 volume % copper, hard-worked.
4. Ordering Information
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
as the standard, except for resistivity and density, where the SI
4.1 Orders for materials to this specification shall include
units are the standard. The values given in parentheses are for
the following information:
information only.
4.1.1 This specification designation (which includes the
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor- number, the year, and the revision letter, if applicable),
4.1.2 Quantity in weight or pieces,
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the 4.1.3 Classes, (see 1.2),
4.1.4 Edge contour (Section 12),
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical 4.1.5 Cross-Sectional Dimensions: Thickness and Width
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee. (Section 13),
4.2 Additionally, orders for material to this specification
2. Referenced Documents
shall include the following information when required by the
2.1 The following documents of the issue in effect on date
purchaser:
of material purchase form a part of this specification to the
4.2.1 Whether witness of inspection by the purchaser’s
extent referenced herein:
representative is required prior to material shipment (Section
15),
2.2 ASTM Standards:
4.2.2 Whether certification is required (Section 17),
B193 Test Method for Resistivity of Electrical Conductor
4.2.3 Whether an alternative tensile sampling selection
Materials
procedure is acceptable (Section 7).
B354 Terminology Relating to Uninsulated Metallic Electri-
cal Conductors
5. Manufacture
5.1 The products covered by this specification shall consist
of a solid core of aluminum with a continuous outer copper
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee B01 on
Electrical Conductors and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee B01.06 on
layer bonded to the core throughout and shall be of such quality
Bi-Metallic Conductors.
that the resulting products comply with the requirements in this
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2023. Published October 2023. Originally
specification.
approved in 2017. Last previous edition approved in 2017 as B1005 – 17. DOI:
10.1520/B1005-17R23.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or 6. Quality Assurance
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
6.1 Responsibility for Inspection and Tests—Unless other-
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. wise specified in the contract or purchase order, the producer is
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
B1005 − 17 (2023)
TABLE 2 The Diameter of the Bending Cylinder
responsible for the performance of all inspection and test
requirements specified herein. The producer may use his own Thickness, Bending Diameter
in. (mm) in. (mm)
or any other suitable facilities for the performance of the
<0.394 (10.0) 0.623 (16)
inspection and test requirements specified herein, unless dis-
$0.394 (10.0) 1.260 (32)
approved by the purchaser in the order or at the time of contract
signing. The purchaser shall have the right to perform any of
the inspections and tests set forth in this specification where
such inspections are deemed necessary to assure that material
conforms to prescribed requirements.
imperfections on the surface (the cladding layer), or blister
phenomenon inside the bending width. In macrostructure, near
6.2 Lot Definition—An inspection of the lot shall consist of
the curved areas, interface holes or cracks should not appear,
an identifiable quantity of same mill form, and nominal
and no separation phenomenon between the cladding layer and
dimensions and subjected to inspection at one time.
the aluminum core. For a flatwise bend, the mandrel shall be
90° from the rolling direction, and across the greater (width)
7. Tensile Properties
dimension of the bar. The required 90° bend shall be in the
7.1 Limits—The material shall conform to the tensile prop-
rolling direction. This is a longitudinal guided bend as defined
erties in Table 1.
and shown in Test Method E290, Fig. 6.
7.2 Number of Specimens:
8.2 Number of Specimens—The number of specimens (test
7.2.1 For material having a nominal weight of less than 1 lb/
frequency) shall be the same as for tension tests as required in
ft (up through 1.8 kg/linear m), one tension test specimen shall
7.2.
be taken for each 2000 1b (1000 kg), or fraction thereof, in the
lot. 8.3 Test Specimens—Bend test specimens shall be a full
7.2.2 For material having a nominal weight of greater than section of the material with a minimum length of 13 in.
1 lb/ ft (over 1.8 kg/linear m), one tension test specimen shall (330 mm).
be taken for each 2000 ft (600 m), or fraction thereof, in the lot.
8.4 Test Methods—Bend tests shall be made in accordance
7.2.3 One tension test specimen shall be taken from a
with Test Method E290.
random bar representing each 3000 lb of bar, or fraction
8.5 Bending Result Secondary Test:
thereof, of the same temper, thickness, and width in the
8.5.1 Removing 1/2 straight segment of at each end of the
shipment.
samples after the bending test, retain contains 1/2 part of
7.2.4 Other procedures for selecting samples may be em-
bending parts, as shown in Fig. 1.
ployed if agreed upon between the producer and the supplier or
8.5.2 Removing the cladding layer on one narrow side of the
purchaser.
bending sample contain the bending part, then grind and polish
7.3 The geometry of test specimens and the location in the
the section of the remove cladding layer until the aluminum
product from which they are taken shall conform to Test
core exposes according to the provisions of Guide E3.
Methods E8/E8M.
8.5.3 Checking the macrostructure on the section near the
7.4 Test Methods——The tensile testing shall be in accor- interface.
dance with Test Methods E8/E8M.
7.5 Retests—When there is evidence that the test specimen
is defective or is not representative of the lot of material,
retesting shall be performed in accordance with Test Methods
E8/E8M.
8. Bend Properties
8.1 Limits:
8.1.1 Class 20A, 25A and Class 30A bars shall withstand a
flatwise bend at room temperature, through an angle of 90°
around mandrel having a radius shown in Table 2 without
cracking or obvious orange peel or evidence of slivers or other
TABLE 1 Tensile and Elongation Requirements
Elongation, min %
Tensile Strength
in 9.84 in. (250 mm)
Copper Volume
Minimum Maximum Where:
%
H A
H Classes A Classes
1 = The cladding layer;
Classes Classes
ksi (MPa) ksi (MPa) 2 = The aluminum core;
3 = The observed section;
20 23.2 (160) 18.1 (125) 3 25
4 = The cut straight segment.
25 24.6 (170) 18.5 (126) 3.5 28
30 26.1 (180) 18.8 (130) 3.8 30 FIG. 1 Schematic Fixture for Preparation of Metallographic
Specimens After Bending Test
B1005 − 17 (2023)
TABLE 4 Maximum Resistivity or Conductivity Values
8.5.4 For the requirements of lateral bending property, the
bending angle and bending diameter should be indicated in the Volume Resistivity Equivalents at 20 °C
Conductivity
purchase order (or contract) with the consultation of the two
Class
at 20 °C Mass/Unit
sides between supply and purchase.
%IACS Volume Length
2 2
Ω·mm /m μΩ·cm Ω·g/m
9. Interface Bonding 20A 67.6 0.02550 2.550 0.1005
20H 66.4 0.02596 2.596 0.1023
9.1 Limits—Interface bonding strength for bars having a
25A 69.0 0.02498 2.498 0.1062
25H 67.7 0.02548 2.548 0.1083
width ≥1.18 in. (30mm) and a thickness ≥ 0.236 in. (6mm) be
30A 71.1 0.02424 2.424 0.1105
no less than 5.8018 Ksi (40 MPa). Other specifications for
30H 69.6 0.02477 2.477 0.1130
interface bonding strength may be employed if agreed upon
between the producer and the supplier or purchaser.
9.2 Test Method—The
...




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