1. What is a Voltage Drop Calculator by Nexans?

Definition: This calculator estimates the voltage drop in electrical cables based on the Nexans formula, which considers resistivity, cable length, current, and cross-sectional area.

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

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Nexans formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The formula calculates the voltage drop for both the outgoing and return paths (hence the factor of 2) based on the conductor's resistance.

3. Importance of Voltage Drop Calculation

Details: Proper voltage drop estimation ensures electrical equipment receives adequate voltage, prevents power loss, and maintains system efficiency.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the conductor resistivity (default 1.68×10⁻⁸ Ω·m for copper), cable length in meters, current in amps, and conductor area in m². All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the factor 2 included in the formula?
A: The factor 2 accounts for both the outgoing and return paths in single-phase AC or DC circuits.

Q2: What's the typical resistivity for copper?
A: Copper has a resistivity of about 1.68×10⁻⁸ Ω·m at 20°C. For aluminum, use 2.82×10⁻⁸ Ω·m.

Q3: How does temperature affect the calculation?
A: Higher temperatures increase resistivity. For precise calculations, adjust resistivity based on operating temperature.

Q4: What's an acceptable voltage drop?
A: Typically 3% for lighting circuits and 5% for other circuits, but check local regulations.

Q5: How do I convert mm² to m² for conductor area?
A: Divide mm² by 1,000,000 (e.g., 2.5 mm² = 2.5×10⁻⁶ m²).