Xlpe triplex #2 max load

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Cletis

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Im trying to calculate the maximum continuous load i can run on #2 al triplex service wire with ambient temps less than 35f in free air. I cant find the temperature conversion to apply to free air charts. Id like to sqeak out 170-200 amps if possible


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How far are you running? Even if you can squeeze it out on basic ampacity calculations which are primarily intended to protect the conductor insulation from overheating, you may still have voltage drop issues.
 
Its a cabin in the woods. Major ordeal to get them to run new
Line. Wood only be used basically dec-feb when wood stove couldnt keep up for
Space heaters


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Cletis said:
Its a cabin in the woods. Major ordeal to get them to run new
Line. Wood only be used basically dec-feb when wood stove couldnt keep up for
Space heaters


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Cabins like that from my experience is that the space heaters are backup heat for when no one is there to keep the wood stove stocked with wood. Otherwise when the wood stove is in use it is so hot in there you need to open some doors or window and let some excess heat out at times.

Though not exactly written this way in NEC you sort of can assume the space heating is about the only load running when it is called upon, and that it is also likely set at a relatively low temp just to keep from getting too cold and freeze water pipes or things like that.
 
Who owns this "service triplex"? If its the POCO I would not worry about the size.

In my area it is very rare you will see the POCO install larger than #2 for 200 amp services. 400 amp services usually get 1/0. Most of the load on these service drops is on hot summer days.
 
curt swartz said:
Who owns this "service triplex"? If its the POCO I would not worry about the size.

In my area it is very rare you will see the POCO install larger than #2 for 200 amp services. 400 amp services usually get 1/0. Most of the load on these service drops is on hot summer days.
Click to expand...

Yeah its poco. It would only happen when its cold outside anyhow raising the ampacity more. Actually, its a 100 amp meterbase currently and not really sure what the "real" ampacity would be on that meterbase??? That may be the weak link


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