maks-i-mum al-uh-wuh-d-uh-buhl am-puh-ri-j
Maximum, Allowable, Amperage
The highest current level that is allowed to flow in an electrical circuit.
Example usage: The electrician determined the maximum allowable amperage for the circuit.
Most used in: Electrical installation and maintenance projects.
Most used by: Electricians, engineers, and other tradespeople.
Popularity: 8
Comedy Value: 2
What is Maximum Allowable Amperage?
Maximum Allowable Amperage (MAA) is a term used in the context of Electrician construction that refers to the maximum current that is allowed to flow through an electrical circuit. This is important to consider when wiring a home or building to ensure that the electrical system is safe and not overloaded.
MAA is determined by the size of the electrical wiring and the associated circuit breaker. It is important to use the correct size of wire for the current that will be flowing through it. If the wire is too small, it will not be able to handle the current and can overheat, causing a fire hazard. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, an estimated 51,000 residential structure fires are caused by electrical problems each year in the US, resulting in an average of 500 deaths and 1,400 injuries.
The MAA is specified by the National Electrical Code (NEC) and is based on the size of the wire and the type of circuit breaker used. For example, the NEC specifies that a 15-amp circuit breaker can be used with a maximum of 12-gauge wiring. The 12-gauge wire has a maximum current rating of 15 amps, so the MAA for this circuit is 15 amps.
By understanding the concept of Maximum Allowable Amperage, electricians can ensure that their wiring and circuit breakers are sized correctly. This will help prevent electrical fires and ensure the safety of the home or building.
The Origin of the Term 'Maximum Allowable Amperage'
The term 'maximum allowable amperage' is used in the context of electrician construction to refer to the maximum amount of electrical current a system can safely handle. It is an important concept in electrical engineering that dates back to at least the early 20th century.
The term was first used in the United States in the 1920s, when the National Bureau of Standards (now known as the National Institute of Standards and Technology) issued a publication called 'Maximum Allowable Amperage of Electric Wires and Cables.' This document outlined safety regulations for electrical wiring and equipment in the US.
Since then, the term has been widely used in the electrical engineering field in the US and abroad. It is used to indicate the maximum current capacity of a particular circuit or system, and it is an important factor in ensuring the safety of electrical installations.
The concept of maximum allowable amperage is still widely used in the electrical engineering field today, and it is an important safety measure in the construction of electrical installations.
