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Cable Size Calculator AS/NZS 3008

Professional cable sizing calculator compliant with AS/NZS 3008 Australian/New Zealand standard. Calculate proper cable sizes for electrical installations with accurate voltage drop and current carrying capacity calculations.

Cable Size Calculator AS/NZS 3008

Professional cable sizing calculator compliant with AS/NZS 3008 Australian/New Zealand standard. Calculate proper cable sizes for electrical installations with accurate voltage drop and current carrying capacity calculations.

Load Parameters

Installation Parameters

Calculation Results

Enter load parameters and click Calculate to see results

AS/NZS 3008 Compliance

  • ✓ Current carrying capacity per AS/NZS 3008.1.1
  • ✓ Voltage drop calculations per AS/NZS 3008.1.2
  • ✓ Temperature derating factors applied
  • ✓ Installation method factors included
  • ✓ Grouping factors considered

How to Use This Calculator

Step 1: Load Parameters

  • • Select the phase type (3-phase, single-phase, or DC)
  • • Enter the system voltage
  • • Input the load in kW, kVA, or Amperes
  • • Set the power factor (typically 0.8-0.95)

Step 2: Installation Details

  • • Enter the cable run distance
  • • Set maximum voltage drop (typically 5% for lighting, 10% for motors)
  • • Select the installation method from AS/NZS 3008
  • • Choose conductor material and insulation type

Step 3: Environmental Factors

  • • Set ambient temperature (affects current capacity)
  • • Apply grouping factor for multiple cables
  • • Consider soil temperature for buried cables

Step 4: Results Analysis

  • • Review the recommended cable size
  • • Check voltage drop compliance
  • • Verify current carrying capacity
  • • Consider derating factors applied

Frequently Asked Questions

What is AS/NZS 3008 standard?

AS/NZS 3008 is the Australian and New Zealand standard for electrical installations - Selection of cables. It provides requirements for cable selection, current carrying capacity, and voltage drop calculations for electrical installations.

How do I determine the correct installation method?

The installation method depends on how the cable will be installed (in air, buried direct, in conduit, etc.). Each method has different current carrying capacities due to thermal considerations. Refer to the visual guide provided in the tool.

What is voltage drop and why is it important?

Voltage drop is the reduction in voltage between the supply point and the load. AS/NZS 3008 limits voltage drop to ensure equipment operates efficiently. Maximum allowed is typically 5% for lighting and 10% for motors.

How do I account for ambient temperature?

Higher ambient temperatures reduce cable current carrying capacity. The calculator applies derating factors based on ambient temperature to ensure safe operation according to AS/NZS 3008 requirements.

What cable materials are covered by this calculator?

This calculator covers copper and aluminum conductors with various insulation types as specified in AS/NZS 3008, including XLPE, PVC, and EPR insulation materials.

Can I use this for both single-phase and three-phase calculations?

Yes, the calculator handles both single-phase and three-phase installations with appropriate calculation methods for each system type according to AS/NZS 3008 requirements.

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