8 Gauge THHN Wire Amp Rating: What You Need to Know
Are you looking to learn more about 8 gauge THHN wire amp rating? In this blog post, I will be going over everything that has to do withan 8 gauge THHN wire. This will include the different amperage ratings, and how to choose the right wire for your needs.
What is 8 Gauge THHN Wire?
8 gauge THHN wire is a type of electrical wire that is made of copper and has a thermoplastic insulation. It is a common type of wire used in residential and commercial electrical applications.
What is the Ampacity of 8 Gauge THHN Wire?
The ampacity of 8 gauge THHN wire is 55 amps at 90 degrees Celsius. This means that the wire can safely carry 55 amps of current without overheating.
8 Gauge THHN Amerage at different temperatures
Wire Gauge |
Ampacity at 60°C |
Ampacity at 75°C |
Ampacity at 90°C |
1 AWG |
130 amps |
150 amps |
165 amps |
2 AWG |
115 amps |
130 amps |
145 amps |
4 AWG |
85 amps |
95 amps |
105 amps |
6 AWG |
55 amps |
65 amps |
75 amps |
8 AWG |
40 amps |
50 amps |
55 amps |
10 AWG |
30 amps |
35 amps |
40 amps |
12 AWG |
20 amps |
25 amps |
30 amps |
14 AWG |
15 amps |
20 amps |
25 amps |
Common attributes of #8 AWG 19 Stranded THHN Building Wire
Source: awcwire.com
Attribute |
Value |
AWG Size |
8 |
Number of conductors |
1 |
Conductor material |
Bare copper |
Conductor stranding |
19/21 |
Insulation material |
Polyvinylchloride (PVC) |
Jacket material |
Nylon |
Jacket thickness |
0.005 |
Max. temp |
90C |
Number of strands |
19 |
Nominal insulation thickness (in) |
0.030 |
Nominal O.D. (in) |
0.2130 |
Strand size |
21 |
UL style |
MTW/83/758 |
Voltage |
600 |
Ampacity (90C) |
55 |
Approx LBS/MFT |
63.00 |
What are the Different Types of Electrical Wires?
There are many different types of electrical wires available, each with its own specific properties. Some of the most common types of electrical wires include:
- THHN wire: This is the most common type of electrical wire. It is made of copper and has a thermoplastic insulation.
- USE-2 wire: This type of wire is made of copper and has a rubber insulation. It is used in wet or humid environments.
- UF-B wire: This type of wire is made of aluminum and has a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) insulation. It is used in outdoor applications.
How to Choose the Right Wire for Your Needs?
These are some of the factors you need to consider when choosing wire size:
- The amount of current that the wire will need to carry
- The environment in which the wire will be used
- The cost of the wire
Here are some tips to follow:
- Ensure that the wire is rated for the voltage and amperage of the circuit.
- Wire should also be sized appropriately for the length of the run.
- It is important to use the correct type of insulation for the environment in which the wire will be used.
- Ensure that the wire is secure and installed in a safe location.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your electrical system is safe and reliable.
Choosing the Right Wire for Your Needs
Choosing the correct wire for your electrical job is very important. Here are some factors to consider:
- The amount of current that the wire will need to carry.
- The environment in which the wire will be used.
- The cost of the wire.
How to Install Wire Safely
When installing wire, it is important to follow the National Electrical Code (NEC). The NEC is a set of safety standards that are designed to prevent electrical fires.
Some of the most important safety tips to follow when installing wire include:
- Always turn off the power to the circuit before you start working.
- Use the correct type of wire for the application.
- Install the wire in a safe and secure manner.
- Insulate all exposed wires.
- Use a junction box to connect wires.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Wire
Some of the most common mistakes to avoid when installing wire include:
- Not turning off the power to the circuit before you start working.
- Using the wrong type of wire for the application.
- Not installing the wire in a safe and secure manner.
- Not insulating all exposed wires.
- Not using a junction box to connect wires.
Where to Buy 8 Gauge THHN Wire
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between 8 gauge THHN wire and 10 gauge THHN wire?
A: 8 gauge THHN wire is thicker than 10 gauge THHN wire. This means that 8 gauge THHN wire can carry more current than 10 gauge THHN wire.
Q: What is the best way to terminate 8 gauge THHN wire?
A: The best way to terminate 8 gauge THHN wire is to use a crimp terminal. Crimp terminals are designed to grip the wire tightly and prevent it from coming loose.
Q: What is the best way to protect 8 gauge THHN wire from damage?
A: The best way to protect 8 gauge THHN wire from damage is to install it in a conduit. A Conduit will protect the wire from physical damage and moisture.
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Conclusion
We hope this blog post has helped you learn more about 8 gauge THHN wire amp rating.