1. What is CEC Voltage Drop Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the voltage drop in an electrical circuit according to the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) formula.

Purpose: It helps electricians and engineers ensure proper voltage levels in electrical installations by calculating potential voltage drops.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the CEC voltage drop formula:

Where:

• \( VD \) — Voltage drop (volts)
• \( \rho \) — Resistivity of conductor material (Ω·m)
• \( L \) — Length of conductor (meters)
• \( I \) — Current flowing through conductor (amps)
• \( A \) — Cross-sectional area of conductor (m²)

Explanation: The formula calculates voltage drop by considering material properties, conductor length, current, and conductor size.

3. Importance of Voltage Drop Calculation

Details: Proper voltage drop calculation ensures electrical equipment receives adequate voltage for proper operation and prevents excessive power loss.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the conductor resistivity (default 1.72×10⁻⁸ Ω·m for copper), length in meters, current in amps, and cross-sectional area in m². All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is there a factor of 2 in the formula?
A: The factor of 2 accounts for the voltage drop in both the supply and return conductors (the complete circuit path).

Q2: What's a typical resistivity value for copper?
A: Copper at 20°C has resistivity of 1.72×10⁻⁸ Ω·m. For aluminum, use 2.65×10⁻⁸ Ω·m.

Q3: How does conductor length affect voltage drop?
A: Voltage drop increases linearly with conductor length - double the length means double the voltage drop.

Q4: What's the maximum acceptable voltage drop?
A: CEC generally recommends no more than 3% voltage drop for feeders and 5% for branch circuits.

Q5: How can I reduce voltage drop?
A: Use larger conductors, reduce circuit length, or lower the current draw.