Here are the ampacity ratings for a wide range of American wire gauges (AWG) at a temperature of 60°C (140°F) in free air:
- 22 AWG: 3 Amps
- 20 AWG: 5 Amps
- 18 AWG: 16 Amps
- 16 AWG: 25 Amps
- 14 AWG: 40 Amps
- 12 AWG: 55 Amps
- 10 AWG: 70 Amps
- 8 AWG: 85 Amps
- 6 AWG: 95 Amps
- 4 AWG: 115 Amps
- 2 AWG: 130 Amps
- 1/0 AWG: 145 Amps
- 2/0 AWG: 160 Amps
- 3/0 AWG: 185 Amps
- 4/0 AWG: 205 Amps
Note that these ratings are for single-conductor wires in free air, and the ampacity of a wire can be reduced by as much as 50% or more when multiple wires are bundled together or when the wire is run in conduit or through a wall. Also, the ampacity of a wire can be increased by using larger wire gauges, lower ambient temperatures, or better cooling methods.
These ampacity ratings should be used as a general guideline and always consult the manufacturer’s specifications for the specific wire being used.
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