Why selecting the right Cable Size for Motors is Important?
Choosing the right cable size is essential for motor design and installation, since it impacts safety, efficiency, & performance. Using excessively small cables can result in:
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Overheating and insulation damage
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Reduced motor performance due to voltage drop
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Increased energy losses and electricity bills
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Non-compliance with the electrical codes
This chart provides an instant reference for selecting the appropriate cable size depending on motor power and current demand in typical settings.
Note: Remember to choose cables based on load current, temperature, installation type, & length. Oversizing may be essential for long-distance runs. Follow local laws (NEC, IEC) to ensure safety.
How to utilize this table?
Example 1: For a 3 kW motor, the recommended cable size is 1.5 mm². It draws around 6 A.
Example 2: A cable size of 25 mm² is appropriate for a 45 kW motor with a current flow of around 90 A.
The data shown assume conventional installation conditions (e.g., copper cable, single-phase (or) balanced three-phase load, ambient temperature about 30°C).
You may need to make adjustments for long wire runs and higher ambient temperatures and cable grouping (derating).
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