MODRATEC Useful Data (otherwise known as MUD) is a series of pages containing helpful information particularly relevant to rail modellers. This is our Cable Calculator page.

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Cable Calculator

Use this on-line calculator to estimate the current carrying capacity of any cable that has copper conductors.

Estimations are based on a current density of 10 A per mm² (6451.6 A per inch²). You need to satisfy yourself that the quoted current density is correct for your application by taking into account local legislative issues as well as design matters such as ambient temperature, ventilation and the bundling of cables.

This Calculator applies to steady Direct Current (dc) situations. It also applies to time-varying current situations such as Alternating Current (ac) in which case voltage and current figures are the Root Mean Square (rms) values.

If you are determining the resistance or voltage drop of a circuit on the basis of the distance between a source and a load, don't forget to double the figures to allow for the forward and return paths.

Enter number of strands in cable
Enter diameter of each strand	mm inch
Show Voltage Drop for a current of	A
Use conductor temperature of	C °F

Cross-sectional Area =	0.113 mm²
Current Rating =	1.13 A
Resistance per unit length =	0.16742 ohms/metre
Voltage Drop per unit length at specified current =	0.16742 volts/metre