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Reply to "Adventures in TMCC & Legacy... Trying to master the 455Khz track signal. I've built the test car, and it is finally working.."

Dale Manquen posted:

ampacity chart that I use rates 12awg stranded at 9.3 amps per 1000 feet for power transmission

This statement is incomplete.  You must tell us the nominal voltage and the percent of allowable drop.  Wire size vs. voltage drop tables are typically for 2% drop of some nominal voltage, and they are usually for a complete out-and-back pair of conductors.  For your example, for a 1000 foot loop your voltage would need to be 1500V to have a 2% drop.

Dale, I realize that now. I grabbed the chart from a manufacturer's site some time ago. I assume that this is referencing the load carrying ability before wire or insulation failure. I was originally concerned with trying to find some safety points of reference.

It seems to me that the distances needed to have a noticeable voltage drop for 12 AWG aren't found on most home layouts. It could be possible on Elliot's layout, but he has created multiple power divisions. I would not expect a voltage drop on his layout.

I was responding to his recent comment of concern  if the 12 AWG would be large enough.

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