Current to heat relation for a wire

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the current capacity of a wire with dimensions of 100 micrometers in length and a radius of 1 micrometer. The user attempted to apply the Stefan-Boltzmann law and specific heat capacity but struggled with heat loss to the environment and heat sinks. The objective is to determine the melting point of the wire at various current levels, with a suggestion to refer to gage tables for current carrying capacity. The conversation highlights the importance of resistivity in understanding the voltage-current relationship.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Stefan-Boltzmann law
  • Knowledge of specific heat capacity
  • Familiarity with electrical resistivity concepts
  • Experience with wire gage tables and current carrying capacity
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the application of the Stefan-Boltzmann law in thermal calculations
  • Explore the relationship between resistivity and temperature in conductive materials
  • Study the principles behind wire gage tables and their relevance to current capacity
  • Investigate methods for calculating heat loss in small-scale wire applications
USEFUL FOR

Electrical engineers, materials scientists, and anyone involved in the design and analysis of micro-scale conductive materials.

danesh
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Hey,

I am currently trying to calculate how much current a "wire" of very small dimensions can take. This "wire" is of dimensions of 100 micrometer and radius of about 1 micrometer.
I have tried to use the Stefan-Boltzmann law or use the specific heat capacity, but in there I do not include any lost of heat to the ambient surroundings and to the heat sinks at each end. The results I get are not that good and I feel I have come to a dead end.
I see the connection to filaments in lightbulbs but I haven't been able to find anything in that area.

Anyone who can helps?
 
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Is there any reason that you are trying to calculate this, rather then simply referring to the gage tables to determine the current carrying capacity of the wire?
 
Sorry for the late reply, no internet connection during weekend.
Well my purpose is to try to calculate when dos the wire melt at different currents.
Do you mean using resistivity to calculate the voltage current relation or is there other information I should look for in the gage tables?
 

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