Voltage Drop Calculator Mike Holt

Mike Holt Voltage Drop Formula:

\[ V_d = \frac{2 \times K \times I \times D}{CM} \]

Constant (K):

(12.9 for Cu)

Current (I):

Distance (D):

Circular Mils (CM):

Voltage Drop (V_d):

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1. What is the Mike Holt Voltage Drop Formula?

The Mike Holt voltage drop formula calculates the voltage drop in electrical circuits using the relationship between conductor properties, current, and distance. It provides a practical method for determining voltage loss in electrical installations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Mike Holt voltage drop formula:

\[ V_d = \frac{2 \times K \times I \times D}{CM} \]

Where:

\( V_d \) — Voltage drop (V)
\( K \) — Constant (12.9 for copper)
\( I \) — Current (A)
\( D \) — Distance (ft)
\( CM \) — Circular mils

Explanation: The formula accounts for the relationship between conductor material, current flow, circuit length, and conductor size to determine voltage loss.

3. Importance of Voltage Drop Calculation

Details: Accurate voltage drop calculation is crucial for ensuring proper equipment operation, meeting electrical code requirements, and maintaining system efficiency in electrical installations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the constant value (typically 12.9 for copper), current in amperes, distance in feet, and circular mils value. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical K value for copper conductors?
A: The standard K value for copper conductors is 12.9 in the Mike Holt voltage drop formula.

Q2: Why is the distance multiplied by 2 in the formula?
A: The distance is multiplied by 2 to account for both the outgoing and return paths in a circuit (total circuit length).

Q3: What are circular mils (CM)?
A: Circular mils is a unit of area used for wire cross-sectional measurement, equal to the area of a circle with diameter of one mil (1/1000 inch).

Q4: What is an acceptable voltage drop percentage?
A: Most electrical codes recommend voltage drop not exceed 3% for branch circuits and 5% for feeder circuits to ensure proper equipment operation.

Q5: Does this formula work for both AC and DC circuits?
A: The basic formula works for DC circuits. For AC circuits, additional factors like power factor and reactance may need to be considered for precise calculations.