Resistivity using Load Current (1-Phase 2-Wire US) Calculator

Formula Used:

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

Line Losses (P_loss):

Watt

Area of Underground AC Wire (A):

m²

Current Underground AC (I):

Ampere

Length of Underground AC Wire (L):

Meter

Resistivity (ρ):

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1. What is Resistivity?

Resistivity is the measure of how strongly a material opposes the flow of current through them. It's a fundamental property that quantifies how strongly a given material opposes the flow of electric current.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

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

Where:

\( \rho \) — Resistivity (Ω·m)
\( P_{loss} \) — Line Losses (Watt)
\( A \) — Area of Underground AC Wire (m²)
\( I \) — Current Underground AC (Ampere)
\( L \) — Length of Underground AC Wire (Meter)

Explanation: This formula calculates the resistivity of the wire material based on power losses, cross-sectional area, current flow, and wire length in a 1-Phase 2-Wire US system.

3. Importance of Resistivity Calculation

Details: Calculating resistivity is crucial for determining the appropriate wire material for electrical systems, estimating power losses, and designing efficient electrical distribution networks.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter line losses in watts, wire area in square meters, current in amperes, and length in meters. All values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical resistivity range for common conductors?
A: Copper has resistivity of 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.

Q2: How does temperature affect resistivity?
A: Resistivity generally increases with temperature for most metals due to increased atomic vibrations that impede electron flow.

Q3: Why is the factor 2 included in the denominator?
A: The factor 2 accounts for the two wires in the 1-Phase 2-Wire system where power losses occur in both conductors.

Q4: What units should be used for accurate calculations?
A: Use consistent SI units: watts for power, square meters for area, amperes for current, and meters for length to get resistivity in Ω·m.

Q5: Can this formula be used for AC and DC systems?
A: This specific formula is designed for AC systems, particularly 1-Phase 2-Wire US configurations, accounting for AC-specific considerations.