What size copper wire should be used for 80 Amps 240 volts?

Answer 1

This depends on what rating your over-current device is. For a 48 amp load, the minimum breaker size would normally be 60A. If your breaker or fuse is 60A, then your wire size would be #4 copper, or IF both wire and connection points were rated for 75 degrees C or higher you could use #6 copper. See NEC Article 310 table 310.16.

Your situation may be different due to the type of appliance you are connecting and your local codes. Best to check with a licensed electrician to be sure.

Keep in mind that the electrical code only allows the conductor to be loaded to 80% for loads classed as continuous. If the 48 amps is true load current then a #6 copper wire with a insulation rating of 90 degrees C would be used. The amp rating of a #6 R90 copper wire is 65 amps x 80% = 52 amps for a continuous load, and 65 amps for a noncontinuous load. See 2005 NEC 215.2(A)(1) including the exception.

<><><> As always, if you are in doubt about what to do, the best advice anyone should give you is to call a licensed electrician to advise what work is needed. Before you do any work yourself,

on electrical circuits, equipment or appliances,

always use a test meter to ensure the circuit is, in fact, de-energized. IF YOU ARE NOT ALREADY SURE YOU CAN DO THIS JOB

SAFELY AND COMPETENTLY

REFER THIS WORK TO QUALIFIED PROFESSIONALS.

Answer 2

The ampacity of a wire has nothing to do with the voltage of the conductor. The voltage of a conductor is an insulation factor. The common voltage ratings are 300, 600 and 1000 volts. The current rating of a #12 wire with an insulation rating of 60, 75 or 90 degrees C is 20 amps. A derated by 80%, 20 amp conductor for a continuous load is, 20 x .8 = 16 amps. The distance of 23 feet does not enter into the equation.

Answer 3

Answer for USA, Canada and countries running a 60 Hz supply service.

The simple answer is #8 AWG.

But this assumes you are using THHN or similarly insulated wire. Generally, THHN is what you get when you go to the hardware store, and it DOES MATTER!

<><><>

As always, if you are in doubt about what to do, the best advice anyone should give you is to call a licensed electrician to advise what work is needed.

Before you do any work yourself,

on electrical circuits, equipment or appliances,

always use a test meter to ensure the circuit is, in fact, de-energized.

IF YOU ARE NOT ALREADY SURE YOU CAN DO THIS JOB

SAFELY AND COMPETENTLY

REFER THIS WORK TO QUALIFIED PROFESSIONALS.

Answer 4

The length of wire needed will dictate wire size as much as amps and volts.

Answer 5

6 gauge