What is the 2/0 AWG wire amp rating?
2/0 AWG wire is a heavy-duty conductor for high-current power distribution and service entrance.
Here are typical amp ratings for 2/0 AWG wire as per NEC 2023 (Table 310.16):
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Copper:
- 75°C (167°F) insulation: 175 amps
- 90°C (194°F) insulation: 195 amps
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Aluminum :
- 75°C (167°F) insulation: 135 amps
- 90°C (194°F) insulation: 150 amps
The diameter of bare copper 2/0 wire is approximately 0.3648 inches (9.27 mm), while the diameter of bare aluminum 2/0 wire is 0.3937 inches (10.00 mm).
Common applications of 2/0 wire
Residential and commercial power distribution:
- Service entrance cables to connect utility power to main panels.
- Secondary power distribution in buildings (e.g., from the main panel to sub-panels).
Industrial applications:
- Power feeders for heavy equipment and machinery.
- Distribution systems in industrial plants requiring high current loads.
Battery and solar power systems:
- Connecting batteries in solar energy systems.
- High-current DC circuits, such as battery banks and inverters.
Underground power distribution:
- URD (Underground Residential Distribution) cables for secondary distribution systems.
- Often used for direct burial or in conduit.
Welding and portable power:
- In welding leads and power extension for portable machinery.
- Temporary power setups in construction or mining.
Marine and automotive:
- Heavy-duty applications in marine vessels for engine power and auxiliary systems.
- Automotive applications like connecting alternators or large battery banks.
Renewable energy systems:
- Wiring for wind turbines and larger photovoltaic (PV) systems.
- Connecting equipment where high efficiency and durability are crucial.
Backup power systems:
- Connections for large generators or backup power systems.
Building Wire (THHN/THWN-2, XHHW-2)
- Material: Copper or aluminum.
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Applications:
- In 2/0 size, it’s commonly used as main power feeders in buildings to carry high-current loads from the utility connection to distribution panels.
- Often installed in conduits or raceways in industrial and commercial buildings where high ampacity is required.
- Why 2/0?: Large ampacity (175-195A for copper, 135-150A for aluminum) makes it ideal for these roles.
Service Entrance Cable (SER/SEU)
- Material: Copper or aluminum.
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Applications:
- 2/0 SER cable supplies power from the utility meter to the main breaker panel in residential or light commercial buildings.
- SEU cable (underground service) connects utility power to buildings via direct burial or ducts.
- Why 2/0?: The size supports the typical current demand for residential service entrances, often rated for 200A.
Underground residential distribution cable (URD)
- Material: Aluminum.
-
Applications:
- In 2/0 size, URD cable is used for secondary distribution systems, carrying power from transformers to service meters in residential areas.
- Installed via direct burial or in conduits for underground systems.
- Why 2/0?: It can handle typical household loads (e.g., 150-200A service). It is also budget-friendly for the level of performance it offers.
Welding Cable
- Material: Copper.
-
Applications:
- 2/0 welding cable connects welding machines to electrodes and delivers the high current required for heavy-duty welding operations.
- Also used for temporary power in construction sites and portable machinery.
- Why 2/0?: It’s flexible and can handle the high current demands (up to 200-300A) for heavy welding tasks.
Battery Cable
- Material: Copper.
-
Applications:
- 2/0 battery cables are used to connect large battery banks to inverters in solar power systems or backup power setups.
- In automotive or marine applications, they link battery terminals to power distribution systems requiring high current.
- Why 2/0?: High conductivity and capacity for low-voltage, high-current DC systems (e.g., 200A or more).
Submersible Pump Cable
- Material: Copper.
-
Applications:
- 2/0 submersible pump cable power large pumps in deep wells or industrial water systems requiring high horsepower motors.
- Typically supports pumps rated for 10-15 HP.
- Why 2/0?: Ensures minimal voltage drop for pumps operating at higher currents over long distances.
Direct Burial Cable (USE-2/RHH/RHW-2)
- Material: Copper or aluminum.
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Applications:
- 2/0 USE-2 cable connects the utility transformer to service meters via direct burial installations.
- Often used for feeders in outdoor and underground residential or light commercial applications.
- Why 2/0?: Provides sufficient ampacity for secondary power distribution while withstanding underground environmental conditions.
Medium voltage cable
- Material: Copper or aluminum.
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Applications:
- In 2/0 size, it is used in primary power distribution systems within industrial facilities or utility networks.
- Supplies medium-voltage (1kV–15kV) loads such as transformers or large motors.
- Why 2/0?: Supports high-voltage systems requiring moderate current levels, offering durability and heat resistance.
At Nassau National Cable, you can buy a large variety of 2/0 cables, including
