20AWG Cable Maximum Current: Comparing 1.5A to 8A Ratings for Copper Strands in Computer PSU

Cable used in computer power supplies, 20AWG, copper strand. I have very divergent results when it comes to the maximum operating current of a cable with this cross-section, from 1.5A (from the table) to 8A (according to the cable supplier). I mean running 2-2.5A of current in the power supply of a small power amplifier, the cable length is up to 50 cm.

It can easily withstand 2.5A, if you have doubts, buy LgY 2.5mm2

I think so too. If it sticks, I don't see the point in buying it, I have some of these cables in interesting colors.

Exactly ... every table, different data ...

https://www.gimmik.net/blog/konwersja-awg-czyli-o-przekrojach-pirectow-pradowych-slow-kilka/

AWG20 is about 0.8mm in diameter which gives about 0.5mm ^ 2.
I was taught that it is safe to assume 8A / mm ^ 2, i.e. this wire is up to 4A.

kassans wrote:

@ bambus94 AWG are made of other alloys and you were probably taught for ordinary wires
AWG is used in modeling and there the motors can pull a lot of electricity.

Do you know buddy what the abbreviation means AWG do you write fairy tales just to write something?

American cable measure, I haven't seen anyone use, for example: LgY in modeling.

It will do fine. With this cross-section and length, you will lose from 136mW to 220mW with this current value.

kassans wrote:

American measure of wires I have not seen anyone using LGY in modeling, for example

You are confusing the concept, buddy - LgY (or LggY or LggS) is the description of the type of wire (strand), and AWG is the size.

kkknc wrote:

currents from 136mW to 220mW

Even less, the specific resistance for AWG20 is 34.6 ? / 1000m.

Exactly, AWG is the size of the wire.
I was taught that this 8A / mm ^ 2 is safe for a copper installation cable.
And what is a better conductor than copper? Only silver, possibly superconductors.
If the above-mentioned cables are made of some copper / other metal alloys, it only worsens its electrical properties.

Quote:

Exactly ... every table, different data ...

It is not that the cable will withstand, for example, 5A and will burn at 5.1A.
As a result of the current flow in the cable, power is released, the temperature depends on this power and cooling conditions, if the temperature is too high, the insulation will burn.

Various sources accept different maximum temperature , and various working conditions it is different when the cord is freely hung and something else when it is crammed in a small space - therefore the maximum current of the coiled and unfolded extension cord is different :)

The same wire in silicone or Teflon insulation will have a higher maximum current than if it was insulated with plastic, because better insulation will withstand higher temperatures.

Apart from the tables themselves you must read what is written above or below the table about the conditions it applies to .

Thank you, Dear Colleagues, for a creative and constructive discussion. I also estimated this cable for about 3-4A of continuous operation in the case of power supply (for the earth electrode it is many times more). Since my system will use up to 2.5A, I have a positive answer.

And by the way, I was able to learn an unfamiliar theory about wires from other alloys The topic has been exhausted, so I close it.