Wire size

[Cat Nap3]

Is there any disadvantage in running two wires instead of one wire if the total amp capacity of either is the same ??
Thanks. Nick

[Frankly]

Not typically the first choice but will work fine if you are carefull/ thoughtfull.


I have run as many as 10 or 12 parallel conductors (per phase) on large underground electrical services.


Frankly

[Jammer]

Originally Posted by Cat Nap3

Is there any disadvantage in running two wires instead of one wire if the total amp capacity of either is the same ??
Thanks. Nick

The problem is that if a connection comes loose all the current flows through one wire, overloading it, with no obvious signs of the failure.


It is sometimes done with much larger wires (4/0 and larger) to improve heat dissipation and to keep the wire size down to the point where it is manageable but is always an approach that has to be taken with care and awareness of the risk.

[Statistical]

It can be done but understand that by ABYC standards each wire would need to be fused separately. That way if one wire fails the other wire's fuse will trip.

I would just run a single larger wire unless a larger wire is not available (often hard to find marine wire larger than 4/0) or you can't source tools (some lug crimpers max out at 2/0).

[CharlieJ]

@Jammer post #3: +1

Per ABYC E-11, for DC circuits:
> AWG 10 or larger
> Same length
> Run in same raceway/chase
> OCPD to protect single conductor