Formula Used:
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This calculator determines the cross-sectional area of an underground AC wire using the volume of conductor material and the length of the wire for a 2-phase 3-wire US system.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula calculates the cross-sectional area by dividing the total conductor volume by the product of wire length and the geometric factor (2 + √2) which accounts for the 2-phase 3-wire configuration.
Details: Calculating the cross-sectional area is essential for determining current carrying capacity, voltage drop calculations, and ensuring proper wire sizing for electrical systems.
Tips: Enter the volume of conductor material in cubic meters and the length of the underground AC wire in meters. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: Why is there a (2 + √2) factor in the formula?
A: This factor accounts for the geometric configuration of conductors in a 2-phase 3-wire US system, ensuring accurate area calculation.
Q2: What units should I use for input values?
A: Volume should be in cubic meters (m³) and length in meters (m) for consistent results in square meters (m²).
Q3: Can this calculator be used for other wire configurations?
A: No, this specific formula is designed for 2-phase 3-wire US underground AC systems. Other configurations require different formulas.
Q4: What is the typical range for cross-sectional areas?
A: Cross-sectional areas for electrical wires typically range from a few square millimeters to several hundred square millimeters, depending on the application.
Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation is mathematically precise based on the input values. Accuracy depends on the precision of your volume and length measurements.