How to choose the correct wire gauge & size of a wire

  • Thread starter Thread starter jeydheep
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Gauge Wire
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around selecting the appropriate wire gauge for a lighting circuit powered by a 12V battery, specifically for a load consisting of two 100W bulbs. Participants explore methods for calculating the necessary wire gauge based on current requirements.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about how to calculate the correct wire gauge for a specific lighting circuit.
  • Another participant provides a calculation for current by dividing the total wattage (200W) by the voltage (12V), resulting in approximately 16.66A.
  • A suggestion is made to consult the National Electric Code for information on the ampacity of wires.
  • It is noted that the wire gauge should be chosen to exceed the current it needs to carry, rather than being just under the required amount.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present various methods and considerations for selecting wire gauge, but no consensus is reached on a specific approach or calculation method.

Contextual Notes

There may be limitations regarding the assumptions made about load characteristics, safety factors, and specific application requirements that are not fully addressed in the discussion.

jeydheep
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
I Suppose, need to choose a correct wire gauge for a lighting circuit, how to calculate it. Input load 12V Battery, load (two 100 W bulb), .Please clarify.
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
I would recommend that you Google "national electric code ampacity of wires".
 
btw, you need to choose the gauge of wire for just over, rather than just under the current it needs to carry. (It needs to be said)
 

Similar threads

Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
14
Views
3K
Replies
38
Views
7K
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 28 ·
Replies
28
Views
17K
Replies
18
Views
2K