For a motor at 275/480 volts with a current reading of 18 amps, what is the size of the SO cord that must be used?

To determine the appropriate size of the SO cord for a motor operating at 275/480 volts with a current reading of 18 amps, it's essential to consider the current-carrying capacity of the conductors used in the cord, as well as any relevant National Electrical Code (NEC) guidelines.

In this case, the size of the SO cord must be sufficient to safely handle the 18 amps being drawn by the motor. According to the NEC, the ampacity of a conductor depends on several factors, including insulation type, temperature rating, and the number of conductors in a cable.

Typically, for flexible cords such as SO cords, the ampacity ratings are higher than those of standard wires due to their construction. For a common setup, a number 10 gauge SO cord is rated for around 30 amps, making it appropriate for a continuous load of 18 amps. Furthermore, selecting a cord size that exceeds the required ampacity provides a buffer for temperature increases and potential power spikes that might occur during motor startup.

Choosing a size 10 cord also ensures compliance with safety standards and reduces the risk of overheating, which can be crucial in environments where motors operate frequently or under varying loads. Therefore, the choice of a size 10