1. What is the Nexans Voltage Drop Calculator for Canada?

Definition: This calculator estimates the voltage drop in electrical conductors based on the Nexans formula commonly used in Canadian electrical installations.

Purpose: It helps electricians and engineers ensure proper voltage levels in electrical circuits by accounting for conductor resistance.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The formula calculates the voltage drop by considering the resistance of both the outgoing and return conductors (hence the factor of 2).

3. Importance of Voltage Drop Calculation

Details: Proper voltage drop calculation ensures electrical equipment receives adequate voltage for optimal performance and prevents excessive power loss in conductors.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the conductor resistivity (default 1.72×10⁻⁸ ohm-m for copper), length in meters, current in amps, and conductor 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 accounts for both the outgoing and return conductors in a typical circuit.

Q2: What's the typical resistivity value for copper?
A: Copper at 20°C has ρ ≈ 1.72×10⁻⁸ ohm-m. For aluminum, use ρ ≈ 2.82×10⁻⁸ ohm-m.

Q3: How do I convert conductor size from AWG to m²?
A: Use our AWG to mm² conversion tool or reference standard AWG size tables.

Q4: What's an acceptable voltage drop percentage?
A: Canadian Electrical Code typically recommends ≤3% for branch circuits and ≤5% overall.

Q5: Does temperature affect the calculation?
A: Yes, conductor resistance increases with temperature. For precise calculations, adjust ρ for operating temperature.