# What Is the Difference Between Full Load Current (FLC), Rated Current & Nominal Current?

**URL:** <https://forumautomation.com/t/what-is-the-difference-between-full-load-current-flc-rated-current-nominal-current/11548>\
**Category:** Electrical\
**Tags:** current\
**Created:** [October 19, 2023, 12:51pm UTC](https://forumautomation.com/t/what-is-the-difference-between-full-load-current-flc-rated-current-nominal-current/11548 "2023-10-19T12:51:46Z")\
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**Author:** ![Rabert](https://forumautomation.com/user_avatar/forumautomation.com/rabert/32/6784_2.png) [@Rabert](https://forumautomation.com/u/Rabert)\
**Post date:** [October 19, 2023, 12:51pm UTC](https://forumautomation.com/t/what-is-the-difference-between-full-load-current-flc-rated-current-nominal-current/11548/1 "2023-10-19T12:51:46Z")

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| Full load Current (FLC) | Rated Current | Nominal Current |
| --- | --- | --- |
| The maximum current that a particular load may drain from the circuit is referred to as full-load current. | The rated current is the current listed on the name plate by the manufacturer. It is the most current that the device can withstand. | The nominal current is the current with the highest efficiency. |
| Full load current usually refers to the current drawn a motor, which will draw a different amount of current depending on the mechanical load applied to its output. Full load current is drawn when the output is subjected to its maximum rated load. | A conductor, a source of power, or a control device like a switch that is capable of withstanding currents up to a certain limit. | When a device like a motor operates under its intended load, which will be smaller than the maximum permitted load in a conservatively constructed system. |
| The rated full load current (FLC) is the value given by the manufacturer when tested under ideal circumstances. | Motor windings are intended for carrying the rated current in normal operation and somewhat more for shorter durations. | It is the current taken by the motor while generating the rated mechanical (physical) output at its shaft. |
| The rated full load current (FLC) is the maximum that should ever draw via a source like an outlet or a generator. | The rated current is calculated from ideal condition of the device in normal input supply. | It must always be less than the device’s rated current. |
| When several outputs impact one other, the outputs cannot draw the full load current at same time. | The rated current is considered “standard” since “full load current” only allows for immeasurable combinations. | The nominal current in amperes that each contact may transfer continuously & simultaneously. |