1. What is the Voltage Drop Formula?

The voltage drop formula calculates the decrease in electrical potential along a conductor due to its resistance. This is crucial for ensuring proper voltage levels at the load end of electrical circuits.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the voltage drop formula:

Where:

• \( Vd \) — Voltage drop (V)
• \( L \) — Length of the conductor (m)
• \( I \) — Current flowing through the conductor (A)
• \( \rho \) — Resistivity of the conductor material (ohm m)
• \( A \) — Cross-sectional area of the conductor (mm²)

Explanation: The formula calculates the voltage loss in a two-wire circuit by considering the conductor's physical properties and the electrical current.

3. Importance of Voltage Drop Calculation

Details: Proper voltage drop calculation is essential for designing efficient electrical systems, ensuring equipment operates correctly, and preventing energy losses in wiring systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter length in meters, current in amperes, resistivity in ohm meters, and area in square millimeters. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the factor 2 used in the formula?
A: The factor 2 accounts for the round trip path of current in a two-wire circuit (both the outgoing and return conductors).

Q2: What are typical resistivity values for common conductors?
A: Copper: 1.68×10⁻⁸ ohm m, Aluminum: 2.82×10⁻⁸ ohm m at 20°C.

Q3: What is an acceptable voltage drop percentage?
A: Generally, voltage drop should not exceed 3% for branch circuits and 5% for feeder and branch circuits combined.

Q4: How does temperature affect voltage drop calculations?
A: Higher temperatures increase conductor resistance, which increases voltage drop. For precise calculations, temperature corrections may be needed.

Q5: Can this calculator be used for DC and AC circuits?
A: This formula is primarily for DC circuits. For AC circuits, additional factors like power factor and reactance may need to be considered.