# Why selecting the right Cable Size for Motors is Important?

**URL:** <https://forumautomation.com/t/why-selecting-the-right-cable-size-for-motors-is-important/13232>\
**Category:** Electrical\
**Tags:** motor\
**Created:** [May 14, 2025, 8:17am UTC](https://forumautomation.com/t/why-selecting-the-right-cable-size-for-motors-is-important/13232 "2025-05-14T08:17:41Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 1\
**Page:** 1

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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:** [May 14, 2025, 8:17am UTC](https://forumautomation.com/t/why-selecting-the-right-cable-size-for-motors-is-important/13232/1 "2025-05-14T08:17:42Z")

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> # 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:

1. Overheating and insulation damage

2. Reduced motor performance due to voltage drop

3. Increased energy losses and electricity bills

4. 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.

 ![image](https://cdn.forumautomation.com/original/2X/b/b83dd84c4c6ab75730baa9c81e36507282e5570c.jpeg)

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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