The minimum size circuit conductors for a 115/230-V, 5 hp, 1Ø motor supplied by a 2-pole breaker are how many AWG?

In the context of determining the minimum size circuit conductors for a single-phase motor, it is essential to consider both the motor's horsepower rating and the specific voltage at which it operates. For a 5 horsepower (hp) motor running at 115/230 volts, the National Electrical Code (NEC) provides guidelines for wire sizing based on the full-load current of the motor.

To find the appropriate conductor size, we can reference the NEC tables that outline the full-load current for single-phase motors. A 5 hp motor typically draws around 28.8 amps at 230 volts. In sizing the conductors, it is important to ensure that they can handle this current without excessive voltage drop and heat generation.

For a motor type circuit, you also need to factor in the continuous load consideration. According to NEC guidelines, conductors must be sized for 125% of the full load current of continuous loads. Therefore, multiplying the full-load current by 1.25 would suggest that we need to consider a conductor that can handle at least 36 amps.

AWG 8 conductors are rated for 40 amps, which provides an adequate safety margin above the calculated load, ensuring that the motor can operate safely without risking overheating of the