Max amperage for cable diameter

[fatman57]

I have found conflicting reports on just how much amperage various cable diameters can take. Can anyone help point me to a reliable source, as the place I am buying some cable from advertise it as 50 amps, but many of the information I have seen doesn't match this.

The cable is 6mm2 (squared) which I believe translates to around 4.3mm diameter. What is the max continuous amperage this cable can take?

Much obliged!

 

[OBW0549]

Here's a wire table that may give you the information you need:

 

[fatman57]

Here's a wire table that may give you the information you need:

Thanks!

It seems I am not the only one then. So looks about right as Max amps ("Maximum allowable current based on 500 circular mils per Amp. Do NOT exceed this rating") is around 52 for the cable size I am looking at. Continuous is 35 amps which is about what I need.

 

[Bluejets]

What will you use it for and what is the cable run length? I suspect you may be getting conflicting answers because of this.

 

[fatman57]

What will you use it for and what is the cable run length? I suspect you may be getting conflicting answers because of this.

Yes I gather length will increase the resistance, no?

Its not for long distance transmission, total length (Red and Black) will be under or around 1 meter in length.

 

[Tha fios agaibh]

The amperage a wire can handle varies on the temperature rating of its insulation and where its used. Wire ran in open air can handle more current than wire ran in conduit mounted on a rooftop.
Time also has an impact on it. Many loads briefly draw hundreds of amps for a fraction of a second before droping down significantly.

 

[fatman57]

The amperage a wire can handle varies on the temperature rating of its insulation and where its used. Wire ran in open air can handle more current than wire ran in conduit mounted on a rooftop.
Time also has an impact on it. Many loads briefly draw hundreds of amps for a fraction of a second before droping down significantly.

Thanks, this was a good reminder.