What must be cleaned off aluminum wire bus before attaching a space terminal?

Cleaning aluminum oxide off aluminum wire bus is essential before attaching a space terminal due to the properties of aluminum and its oxidation process. Aluminum readily reacts with oxygen in the environment, leading to the formation of aluminum oxide on its surface. This oxide layer is highly resistant to electrical conductivity, which can impair the connection between the terminal and the bus.

When attaching a space terminal, you want to ensure optimal electrical contact. If the aluminum oxide is not removed, it can create a barrier, leading to poor electrical performance, increased resistance, or even localized overheating at the connection point. The removal of aluminum oxide ensures that the terminal makes contact with clean, conductive aluminum, which is vital for the reliability and efficiency of the electrical connection.

The other substances listed have different roles or contexts in electrical work but do not play a direct role in improving the conductivity of the connection in the same way that cleaning away aluminum oxide does.