Circuit Breaker Ampere Ratings and its Equivalent Wire Sizes Table

Circuit Breaker Ampere Ratings and Equivalent Stranded Wire Sizes

Circuit Breaker Ampere Ratings and Equivalent Stranded Wire Sizes

Ampere Rating (A)Equivalent Stranded Wire Size (mm²)Wire TypeApplication
15A2.0 mm²THHN/THWNLighting Circuits, General Purpose Outlets
20A3.5 mm²THHN/THWNSmall Appliance Circuits, Residential Outlets
30A5.5 mm²THHN/THWNAir Conditioners, Water Heaters
40A8.0 mm²THHN/THWNElectric Ranges, Electric Dryers
50A14.0 mm²THHN/THWNElectric Ovens, Large HVAC Systems
60A22.0 mm²THHN/THWNHeavy Duty HVAC Systems, Industrial Equipment
70A30.0 mm²THHN/THWNLarge Industrial Equipment
80A38.0 mm²THHN/THWNHeavy Duty Industrial Equipment
90A50.0 mm²THHN/THWNLarge Industrial Systems
100A60.0 mm²THHN/THWNMain Panels, Large HVAC Systems

Circuit Breaker Ampere Ratings and Equivalent Solid Wire Sizes

Circuit Breaker Ampere Ratings and Equivalent Solid Wire Sizes

Ampere RatingMax Solid Wire Size (AWG)Typical Applications
15A14 AWGLighting circuits, small appliances, and general-purpose outlets
20A12 AWGKitchen outlets, bathroom outlets, laundry areas, and garages
30A10 AWGAir conditioning units, water heaters, and dryers
40A8 AWGElectric ranges, ovens, and large air conditioning units
50A6 AWGElectric ranges, subpanels, and large appliances

Notes:

  • The wire size in mm² represents the cross-sectional area of the conductor.
  • The American Wire Gauge (AWG) system is also included for reference as it is commonly used in various electrical standards.
  • Applications are typical examples where each wire size might be used, but specific requirements may vary based on detailed design considerations and local regulations.

Key Considerations:

  1. Ampacity Derating:
    • The ampacity or current-carrying capacity of conductors must be derated based on the installation conditions such as ambient temperature, number of conductors in a conduit, and other environmental factors as specified by the Philippine Electrical Code.
  2. Voltage Drop:
    • Ensure that the selected wire size minimizes voltage drop, especially for long runs. The PEC typically recommends that voltage drop should not exceed 3% for branch circuits and 5% for feeders and branch circuits combined.
  3. Safety:
    • Always adhere to safety standards and regulations outlined in the PEC. Proper sizing and protection of electrical conductors are crucial to prevent overheating, electrical fires, and other hazards.

Practical Tips:

  • Inspection and Compliance:
    • Regularly inspect wiring installations and ensure they comply with the latest PEC.
  • Upgrade Considerations:
    • When upgrading electrical systems, consider future load increases and select wire sizes that can accommodate potential higher current demands.
  • Professional Consultation:
    • Consult a licensed electrical engineer or electrician to ensure compliance with all electrical codes and standards.

For specific projects, always refer to the latest edition of the Philippine Electrical Code and consult a licensed electrical professional PEE, REE, or RME.

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