120/240 Underground Service w/Double Aluminum Conductors

[rlharch]

Hello,
I need to run an underground service (120/240 single phase three wire,200amp) approx. 400' from meter to panel.Because of voltage drop and budget issues (copper$ vs. Aluminum$) I am looking at doubling the number of conductors with Aluminum wire. For example; 2-4/0 for leg A 2-4/0 for leg B and 2-2/0 for the Neutral . All these conductors would be run in 4" pvc conduit. Is there any unforeseen problems with this configuration ?

Thanks, rlharch

 

[dpc]

If the paralleled conductors are kept the same length and you have a (legal) way to terminate on each end, I don't see a problem.

 

[rlharch]

dpc,
Thanks for your input. Termination at the meter should not pose a problem since there are three lugs per leg and also at the neutral . Any suggestions on termination at the Panel side?

Thanks again, rlharch

 

[jghrist]

Assuming that the distance from the meter to the panel is comparatively short, why not use a single large copper cable for this run?

 

[dpc]

You will need to contact the panel manufacturer to get a UL-listed lug kit or maybe check with Burndy or similar.

The main thing is that you need a termination solution that is UL approved and does not violate the UL-listing of the panelboard (if you're an anal-retentive engineer like me, anyway.)