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AWG (American Wire Gauge) Explained
Complete reference guide with conversion table, formulas, and practical applications.
Quick Definition
AWG (American Wire Gauge) is a standardized system for measuring wire diameter. Smaller numbers = thicker wire. Each 3-gauge decrease doubles the cross-sectional area. AWG 10 is thicker than AWG 14; AWG 4/0 is the thickest common size.
The 3-6-10 Rule
3 AWG
= 2x Area
Each 3-gauge drop doubles cross-section
6 AWG
= 2x Diameter
Each 6-gauge drop doubles wire diameter
10 AWG
= 10x Area
10 gauges = 10x cross-sectional area
AWG Reference Table
| AWG | mm2 | Diameter (mm) | Ohms/m | Amps* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0000 (4/0) | 107.2 | 11.68 | 0.000161 | 230 |
| 000 (3/0) | 85 | 10.4 | 0.000203 | 200 |
| 00 (2/0) | 67.4 | 9.27 | 0.000256 | 175 |
| 0 (1/0) | 53.5 | 8.25 | 0.000322 | 150 |
| 1 | 42.4 | 7.35 | 0.000406 | 130 |
| 2 | 33.6 | 6.54 | 0.000513 | 115 |
| 4 | 21.2 | 5.19 | 0.000815 | 85 |
| 6 | 13.3 | 4.11 | 0.0013 | 65 |
| 8 | 8.37 | 3.26 | 0.00206 | 50 |
| 10 | 5.26 | 2.59 | 0.00328 | 35 |
| 12 | 3.31 | 2.05 | 0.00521 | 25 |
| 14 | 2.08 | 1.63 | 0.00828 | 20 |
| 16 | 1.31 | 1.29 | 0.0132 | 13 |
| 18 | 0.823 | 1.02 | 0.0209 | 10 |
| 20 | 0.518 | 0.812 | 0.0333 | 7 |
| 22 | 0.326 | 0.644 | 0.053 | 5 |
| 24 | 0.205 | 0.511 | 0.0842 | 3.5 |
| 26 | 0.129 | 0.405 | 0.134 | 2.2 |
| 28 | 0.081 | 0.321 | 0.213 | 1.4 |
| 30 | 0.051 | 0.255 | 0.339 | 0.9 |
*Ampacity for copper wire at 30C in free air. Actual values depend on insulation type, bundling, and ambient temperature. Always consult NEC tables or manufacturer specs.
Need to Convert AWG to Metric?
Use our free AWG converter for instant conversions with full wire specs.
Common AWG Sizes by Application
Household (120V AC)
- AWG 14: 15A circuits (lighting)
- AWG 12: 20A circuits (outlets)
- AWG 10: 30A circuits (dryers)
- AWG 6: 50A circuits (ranges)
Automotive (12V DC)
- AWG 18-22: Signals, sensors
- AWG 14-16: Lighting, accessories
- AWG 10-12: High-current loads
- AWG 4-6: Starter, alternator
Aerospace
- AWG 20-26: Avionics, data
- AWG 16-20: General purpose
- AWG 12-16: Power distribution
- AWG 4-10: Generator feeders
Industrial
- AWG 18-22: Control signals
- AWG 14-16: Sensors, I/O
- AWG 10-14: Motor control
- AWG 2-8: Motor feeders
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Glossary Terms
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