am-pas-i-tee
noun
The maximum amount of electric current a wire can carry safely.
Example usage: 'We need to check the ampacity of the wires before connecting them to the circuit.'
Most used in: Electrical installations in the UK and Europe.
Most used by: Electricians and electrical engineers.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 3/10
Also see: Current Carrying Capacity, Conductor Capacity, Maximum Allowable Amperage, Wire Capacity,
What is Ampacity in Electrician Construction?
Ampacity is a term used in electrician construction to refer to the maximum amount of electrical current that a wire can safely handle without suffering damage or creating a fire hazard. Ampacity is typically measured in amperage, or the number of electrons flowing through a wire over a period of time.
When electricians are selecting the proper wire for a job, they must consider the ampacity of the wire. If the wire is rated for a lower ampacity than the electrical current being supplied, it could cause the wire to overheat, leading to a fire hazard. On the other hand, if the wire is rated for a higher ampacity than the electrical current being supplied, it is a waste of money.
The proper ampacity of a wire is determined by a number of factors, such as the length of the wire, the type of insulation, the type of conductor, and the temperature of the environment. Electricians must also consider the voltage of the circuit to ensure that the wire is rated for the correct voltage.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has published a standard for ampacity, NFPA 70: National Electrical Code. This standard specifies the minimum ampacity requirements for different types of electrical wires and cables. It is important for electricians to comply with these standards to ensure the safety of their work.
.What is the Origin of the Term 'Ampacity'?
Ampacity is a term used in the field of electrician construction to refer to the electrical current carrying capacity of a wire. The term was first introduced in the early 20th century, with the earliest known use of the word being in a paper published by the American Institute of Electrical Engineers in New York in 1907. The paper was titled “The Ampacity of Wires” and was written by EE professor Charles Proteus Steinmetz.
The term was derived from the Latin word “ampere”, which is the unit for measuring electrical current. Steinmetz defined ampacity as “the maximum current that can be safely carried by a conductor without exceeding its temperature rating.” This definition is still used today in the field of electrician construction.
Since its introduction, the term “ampacity” has become a fundamental part of electrical engineering and construction. It is used to determine the size of the wire needed to safely carry a given amount of current. It is also used to determine the maximum amount of current that can be safely carried by a conductor.
