Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] what guage wire to use?

In a message dated 02-Jul-01 14:40:58 Central Daylight Time,
jjh122@... writes:

> I went to radio shack to purchase the mating
> connectors, and I see that the maximum size wire that can be put in
> them is 18 guage. That seems a little thin to me, I will be putting
> about 5 amps through the wire, will 18 guage be OK?
>

I have fiddled with "low voltage" stuff for years, and I can give you MY
opinion, but at least three others in the group will come up with their own
versions: If the total wire-length from said Molex connector to the drive is
less than 6 feet, 18 ga. "may do". Me, I'd prefer #16 for 4-7 amp. For
sure, if your 5 amp run is OVER ten feet, I'd counsel to go with #16! But
you can loose as much in that cheapo Molex thing than four feet of wire! Use
solid machined gold-plated "Mil-grade Amphenol" connectors, or gas-tight crip
and/or solder! The "old boys" usta always say, "There is NO
substitute/equivalent for a metallurgical bond!" A little early-on
experience proved they were right, so I have remained an old fuddy-duddy with
a soldering iron, maybe accepting high-grade noble-metal-plated AMP crimps
when necessary!

Jan Rowland, Troll


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