ksvalentine
Member
This is a question about a component. It is a band heater, with 16AWG wire (2 hot, one gnd). It's a 208V/300W device. I want to understand why 16AWG can be used here. Is it because of the low amperage?
208VAC - 16AWG
- Thread starter ksvalentine
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jumper
Senior Member
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Basically, if it is UL listed then the NEC will not apply. And yes low amperage is a factor.
ksvalentine
Member
208VAC - 16AWG
TY... was just curious.
:thumbsup:
TY... was just curious.
:thumbsup:
You might see if the insulation type is marked on the wire.
Manufacturers often use conductors other than Cu and insulations with a lot higher temp. rating than we are used to for our "building" wires.
A #16 Cu or other alloys might easily carry the current without damage to the actual conductor and the mfg. may use an insulation that will not be damaged by the heat generated by that current on that conductor.
Stove wiring is another example.
Manufacturers often use conductors other than Cu and insulations with a lot higher temp. rating than we are used to for our "building" wires.
A #16 Cu or other alloys might easily carry the current without damage to the actual conductor and the mfg. may use an insulation that will not be damaged by the heat generated by that current on that conductor.
Stove wiring is another example.
ksvalentine
Member
208VAC - 16AWG
The conductors (stranded) are covered with stainless steel braid.
It's also interesting to note that the connector for this unit is rated at 15A 120V. Why does this make me a natural kind of nervous.:blink:
The conductors (stranded) are covered with stainless steel braid.
It's also interesting to note that the connector for this unit is rated at 15A 120V. Why does this make me a natural kind of nervous.:blink:
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- Tennessee NEC:2017
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That is a commonly used insulation for equipment with heating elements. It's rated for high temperature.
Why does the 15A connector make you nervous? You're heater would be pulling 1.44A @ 208V and would only be 2.50A if @ 120V.
Last edited:
Rick Christopherson
Senior Member
The toaster in your kitchen uses 16 ga with a 15 amp plug too. As long as it is below 300 V, there is virtually no distinction between 120 and 240.
weressl
Esteemed Member
Hopefully some sort of insulation is involved there also, my guess would be fiberglass or Kaptan braiding.:lol:
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