Conversion using the IPS Load capacity Formula
This formula helps estimate the total electrical load and ensures safe circuit sizing, preventing overloads.
Common loads and their safety factor:
Load | Safety factor |
---|---|
Resistive load and lighting loads | 25% |
Air conditioner and heat pump | 75% |
Welders | 100% |
Motors | 25% |
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When load is given:
For DC circuit:
The formula for DC circuits is given below.
For Single Phase AC Circuit:
The formula for single phase AC circuit is same as DC with an addition of power factor (p.f) which is given as:
For 3 phase AC circuits Line to Line:
The formula for three phase AC circuit is same as two phase AC circuit but instead of 2 we use square root 3 (~1.73) when voltage is expressed in terms of line to line (Vll) which is given as:
For 3 phase AC circuits Line to neutral:
When voltage is expressed in terms of line to neutral then we use 3 instead of 1.73.
Circuit Breaker Size Conversion Chart
Load Current (Amps) | Breaker Size (Amps) | Safety Factor | Recommended Breaker Size (Amps) |
---|---|---|---|
10 A | 10 A | 1.25 | 12.5 A |
20 A | 20 A | 1.25 | 25 A |
30 A | 30 A | 1.25 | 37.5 A |
50 A | 50 A | 1.25 | 62.5 A |
100 A | 100 A | 1.25 | 125 A |
Frequently Asked Questions - Circuit Breaker Size Conversion FAQs:
What is circuit breaker sizing?
The correct rating of a circuit breaker depends on sizing efforts that protect electrical circuits from both overloads and short circuits. The sizing process considers both maximum load current and safety factor together with wire capacity to uphold safety and prevent damage.
Why is the safety factor important in circuit breaker sizing?
The safety factor (usually 1.25) accounts for temporary overloads and unexpected surges. Short-term current surges will not trigger tripping when the circuit breaker has suitable dimensions because it offers consistent safeguarding.
How do you calculate the correct circuit breaker size?
The safety factor determines how to select the appropriate circuit breaker size through the product of the load current value. The selected breaker ampacity should be calculated by multiplying the load current of 20 A by a safety factor of 1.25 to determine a final value of 25 A.
What happens if the circuit breaker size is too small?
When circuit breakers are sized below the needs of the system, they tend to interrupt power supply even when current rises naturally. Improper protection from using faulty circuit sizes can result in equipment damage and cause inconvenience to users.
Can a circuit breaker be oversized?
System safety becomes at risk when oversized circuit breakers fail to interrupt both overload and short-circuit situations. Breaker selection requires proper measurement based on predicted load together with safety recommendations.