1. What is Voltage Drop Calculation?

Voltage drop calculation determines the reduction in voltage in an electrical circuit due to the resistance of the conductors. It's essential for ensuring proper operation of electrical equipment and compliance with electrical codes.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the voltage drop equation:

Where:

• \( I \) — Current in amperes (A)
• \( L \) — Length of the cable in meters (m)
• \( R \) — Resistance per meter of the cable (Ω/m)

Explanation: The voltage drop increases with higher current, longer cable runs, and higher resistance cables.

3. Importance of Voltage Drop Calculation

Details: Proper voltage drop calculation ensures electrical devices receive adequate voltage, prevents overheating of cables, and maintains system efficiency. Most electrical codes specify maximum allowable voltage drops (typically 3-5% of supply voltage).

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter current in amps, cable length in meters, and resistance per meter in ohms/m. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is an acceptable voltage drop?
A: Typically 3% for branch circuits and 5% for feeder circuits, but check local electrical codes for specific requirements.

Q2: How do I find cable resistance per meter?
A: Cable specifications usually provide resistance values. For copper, resistance is approximately 0.0168 Ω/m for 1mm² cross-section.

Q3: Does voltage drop affect power consumption?
A: Yes, voltage drop represents power lost as heat in the conductors, reducing system efficiency.

Q4: Should I consider temperature when calculating voltage drop?
A: Yes, conductor resistance increases with temperature. For precise calculations, account for operating temperature.

Q5: How can I reduce voltage drop?
A: Use shorter cable runs, larger conductor sizes, or higher supply voltages to minimize voltage drop.