Formula Used:
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The resistivity calculation formula determines how strongly a material opposes the flow of electric current. It's calculated using line losses, cross-sectional area, wire length, and current in a DC 3-wire system.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates material resistivity based on electrical losses and physical dimensions of the conductor.
Details: Accurate resistivity calculation is crucial for selecting appropriate materials for electrical wiring, minimizing energy losses, and ensuring efficient power transmission in DC systems.
Tips: Enter line losses in watts, area in square meters, length in meters, and current in amperes. All values must be positive numbers greater than zero.
Q1: Why is resistivity important in electrical systems?
A: Resistivity determines how much a material resists electric current flow, affecting energy efficiency and heat generation in electrical systems.
Q2: What are typical resistivity values for common conductors?
A: Copper has about 1.68×10⁻⁸ Ω·m, aluminum about 2.82×10⁻⁸ Ω·m, and silver about 1.59×10⁻⁸ Ω·m at 20°C.
Q3: How does temperature affect resistivity?
A: For most materials, resistivity increases with temperature due to increased atomic vibrations that impede electron flow.
Q4: Why use a 3-wire DC system?
A: 3-wire DC systems provide better voltage regulation and can serve both high and low voltage loads simultaneously.
Q5: Can this calculator be used for AC systems?
A: This specific formula is designed for DC systems. AC systems require additional considerations for inductive and capacitive effects.