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How_to_Select_the_Right_Cable_Size__1740244452

The document outlines the steps for selecting the appropriate cable size for electrical installations, starting with calculating load capacity and checking current carrying capacity. It emphasizes the importance of considering voltage drop for long runs, choosing the right cable type based on the installation environment, and ensuring proper circuit breaker matching. Following these guidelines ensures safe and efficient electrical setups.

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Muruga Ananth
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41 views2 pages

How_to_Select_the_Right_Cable_Size__1740244452

The document outlines the steps for selecting the appropriate cable size for electrical installations, starting with calculating load capacity and checking current carrying capacity. It emphasizes the importance of considering voltage drop for long runs, choosing the right cable type based on the installation environment, and ensuring proper circuit breaker matching. Following these guidelines ensures safe and efficient electrical setups.

Uploaded by

Muruga Ananth
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Date: 16-02-2025

Q: How to Select the Right Cable Size?

A: Step 1: Determine Load Capacity


To select the right cable size, first determine the current (Ampere) that the cable will carry
using the formulas below:

For Single-Phase Load:


I = P / (V * PF)

For Three-Phase Load:


I = P / (1.732 * V * PF)

Example Calculation:
A 5kW (5000W) motor, running at 400V (3-phase) with a power factor of 0.8:
I = 5000 / (1.732 * 400 * 0.8) = 9.04 A

Step 2: Check Current Carrying Capacity


After calculating the current, choose the cable size from standard tables. Below is a
reference table for PVC-insulated copper and aluminum cables.

Cable Size (mm²) Copper (A) Aluminum (A)


1.5 mm² 16 A 12 A
2.5 mm² 22 A 17 A
4 mm² 30 A 22 A
6 mm² 38 A 28 A
10 mm² 52 A 38 A
16 mm² 70 A 50 A
25 mm² 95 A 71 A
35 mm² 120 A 89 A
50 mm² 150 A 112 A

Step 3: Check Voltage Drop


For long cable runs, voltage drop must be considered using the following formula:

Voltage Drop Formula:


V_d = (2 * L * I * R) / 1000

Where:
- L = Cable length in meters
- I = Load current in Amperes
- R = Resistance per 1000 meters
Step 4: Choose the Right Cable Type
Depending on the installation environment, different cable types are available:

- NYA - Single-core, PVC insulated (general use)

- NYM - Multi-core, PVC sheathed (residential wiring)

- NYY - Armored, PVC insulated (outdoor/underground use)

- XLPE - Cross-linked polyethylene (high voltage applications)

Step 5: Match Cable with Circuit Breaker


The selected circuit breaker (MCB/MCCB) must match the cable capacity. An oversized
breaker may fail to trip during a fault, while an undersized breaker may trip unnecessarily.

Final Summary
1. Calculate Load Current

2. Check Cable Current Carrying Capacity

3. Consider Voltage Drop for Long Distances

4. Choose the Correct Cable Type

5. Ensure Proper Circuit Breaker Matching

Following these steps ensures safe and efficient electrical installations.

Prepared By:

Md. Yeasir Arafat

Engineer (Operation, Maintenance & Service)

Power Generation, Engine, Electro Mechanical Sector.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yeasirkhulna/

WhatsApp: +8801645702716

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