ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade General Discussion Area magnetic wire vs regular copper

Besides the insulation what is the difference between the magnetic wire and the regular copper wire?

Thank you.

If by magnetic wire you mean transformer conductors...

Depending on the need I've seen aluminum, copper, or nickel alloys used in transformer windings.

Aluminum is weight and cost saving but takes up more space and is heat sensitive.

Copper dominates small transformers -- we've all seen 'em -- and where specifications are more demanding.

Nickel alloys are used in transformers that have to work while hot, really hot.

Here and there Silver clad Copper has been used. Very pricy.

My dry type transformers use square windings of aluminum.

Thank you for your reply,

I was looking more to the resistance values between the two.
For example:#14 Mag wire is the same as a #14 copper? Both have the same ohmic value per given feet?

Thanks

Ok it is more than 30 years since I worked in a motor shop but the wire gage is the same and the resistance is the same for copper or aluminum. Magnet wire does come in a lot more sizes than building wire so 13 or 15 gage is out there.