Unraveling the Mystery of Copper Resistance Values in AWG

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the calculation of copper resistance values for #6 AWG wire, specifically addressing discrepancies between personal calculations and accepted values. The user, Satchmo05, initially calculated a resistance of 0.3154 mOhm/m using the formula DC resistance = length/(conductivity*pi*radius^2) but mistakenly used the radius instead of the diameter. The correct diameter of #6 AWG is 4.115 mm, leading to a recalculation that aligns with the accepted value of 1.3 mOhm/m. This highlights the importance of using accurate measurements in electrical resistance calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the American Wire Gauge (AWG) system
  • Knowledge of electrical resistance formulas
  • Familiarity with the properties of copper, including conductivity
  • Basic mathematical skills for unit conversions and calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the American Wire Gauge (AWG) standards and their implications on electrical applications
  • Learn about the properties of copper, including its conductivity and how it affects resistance
  • Explore advanced electrical resistance calculations, including factors like temperature and wire length
  • Investigate common mistakes in electrical calculations and how to avoid them
USEFUL FOR

Electrical engineers, students studying electrical engineering, and professionals involved in wiring and electrical installations will benefit from this discussion.

satchmo05
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Hey all,

I am looking at the American Wire Gauge chart listed on Wiki ([PLAIN]http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge).[/PLAIN] I am attempting to determine how they are getting their copper resistance values.

From my education, DC resistance is equal to [length/(conductivity*pi*radius of wire2)]. For example, if I am using #6 AWG - radius is equal to 4.115[mm], conductivity of copper is equal to 5.96e7[S/m]. This gives me 0.3154[mOhm/m], nearly four times smaller than the accepted value of 1.3[mOhm/m].

Where am I going wrong? Thanks,

- Satchmo05
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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Oh wow, that's embarrassing. Thanks for the second set of eyes. I've been staring at that very simple equation for 20 minutes and I just couldn't get anywhere. Most appreciated.
 

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