Voltage Drop Calculator
Calculate voltage drop in electrical circuits to ensure proper wire sizing and prevent power loss. Essential for electrical installations, solar systems, and industrial applications.
Step 1: Electrical Parameters
Understanding Voltage Drop
Voltage drop occurs when electrical current flows through a conductor. Excessive drop can cause equipment malfunction, reduced efficiency, and safety issues. NEC recommends maximum 3% drop for branch circuits.
Step 2: Conductor Specifications
About Conductor Materials
Copper has better conductivity than aluminum (approximately 61% higher). Aluminum wires need to be larger to carry the same current. Always follow local electrical codes and consult a licensed electrician.
Voltage Drop Results
Voltage Drop
Wire Size Comparison
| Wire Size | Material | Voltage Drop | Percentage | NEC Compliant |
|---|
Voltage Drop Analysis
Voltage Drop Formula
VD = (2 × K × I × L) / CM (Single Phase)
VD = (1.732 × K × I × L) / CM (Three Phase)
Where: K = conductor resistivity, I = current (A), L = length (ft), CM = circular mil area. For aluminum, use K = 21.2. For copper, use K = 12.9.
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