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Power Loss Formula:
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Power loss in electrical wires refers to the energy dissipated as heat due to the resistance of the conductor when current flows through it. This loss is calculated using the formula P_loss = I² × R × L, where I is current, R is resistance per unit length, and L is the length of the wire.
The calculator uses the power loss formula:
Where:
Explanation: The power loss increases with the square of the current, making higher currents significantly more impactful on energy losses in electrical systems.
Details: Calculating power loss is essential for designing efficient electrical systems, selecting appropriate wire sizes, minimizing energy waste, and ensuring safe operating temperatures in electrical installations.
Tips: Enter current in amps, resistance per meter in ohm/m, and length in meters. All values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculations.
Q1: Why does power loss increase with the square of current?
A: According to Joule's law, power loss in a resistor is proportional to the square of the current (P = I²R), making higher currents exponentially more significant for power dissipation.
Q2: How can I reduce power loss in electrical wiring?
A: Use thicker wires (lower resistance), reduce current by increasing voltage for the same power, minimize wire length, or use materials with better conductivity.
Q3: What is typical resistance per meter for common wire sizes?
A: Resistance varies by wire gauge and material. For example, 12 AWG copper wire has approximately 0.0052 ohm/m, while 14 AWG has about 0.0083 ohm/m.
Q4: Does power loss affect voltage drop?
A: Yes, power loss and voltage drop are related. Voltage drop (V_drop = I × R × L) is directly proportional to power loss (P_loss = I × V_drop).
Q5: When is power loss calculation most critical?
A: Critical in long cable runs, high-current applications, renewable energy systems, and situations where energy efficiency is a priority or heat buildup could be hazardous.