Area of X-Section using Load Current (1-Phase 2-Wire US) Calculator

Formula Used:

\[ Area\ of\ Underground\ AC\ Wire = \frac{2 \times (Current\ Underground\ AC)^2 \times Resistivity \times Length\ of\ Underground\ AC\ Wire}{Line\ Losses} \]

Current Underground AC:

Resistivity:

Ω·m

Length of Underground AC Wire:

Line Losses:

Area of Underground AC Wire:

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1. What is Area of X-Section Calculation?

The Area of X-Section calculation determines the cross-sectional area of an underground AC wire based on current, resistivity, length, and line losses. This is essential for proper electrical system design and efficiency.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ Area = \frac{2 \times I^2 \times \rho \times L}{P_{loss}} \]

Where:

\( I \) — Current Underground AC (A)
\( \rho \) — Resistivity (Ω·m)
\( L \) — Length of Underground AC Wire (m)
\( P_{loss} \) — Line Losses (W)

Explanation: The formula calculates the required cross-sectional area to achieve specific line losses given the current, material resistivity, and wire length.

3. Importance of Cross-Sectional Area Calculation

Details: Proper cross-sectional area calculation ensures efficient power transmission, minimizes energy losses, prevents overheating, and maintains system safety and reliability.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter current in amperes, resistivity in ohm-meters, length in meters, and line losses in watts. All values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is cross-sectional area important in electrical wiring?
A: Cross-sectional area determines the current-carrying capacity of a wire and affects resistance, voltage drop, and power losses in the system.

Q2: What factors affect the resistivity value?
A: Resistivity depends on the material composition and temperature of the conductor. Common values: copper ≈ 1.68×10⁻⁸ Ω·m, aluminum ≈ 2.82×10⁻⁸ Ω·m.

Q3: How does wire length affect the required cross-sectional area?
A: Longer wires require larger cross-sectional areas to maintain the same level of power losses, as resistance increases with length.

Q4: What are typical line losses in electrical systems?
A: Acceptable line losses typically range from 2-5% of the total power transmitted, depending on the application and regulations.

Q5: Can this calculator be used for DC systems?
A: While the basic principles are similar, this specific formula is designed for 1-phase 2-wire AC systems. DC systems may require different calculations.