Understanding the different gauge wires and which one is thicker can be confusing. The gauge of a wire refers to its diameter and is measured in terms of American Wire Gauge (AWG). The higher the AWG number, the smaller the wire diameter. So, which gauge wire is thicker?
What Is American Wire Gauge (AWG)?
American Wire Gauge (AWG) is a standard that was developed in the United States in 1857. It is used to measure the diameter of electrical wires and cables. It is also used to refer to the thickness of the insulation that surrounds the wire. The higher the AWG number, the smaller the wire diameter and the thinner the insulation.
What Are the Most Common Gauge Wires?
The most common gauge wires range from 8 AWG to 28 AWG. The 8 AWG wire is the thickest, and the 28 AWG wire is the thinnest. Most residential wiring uses 14 AWG and 12 AWG.
How Do I Compare Different Gauge Wires?
To compare different gauge wires, you need to consider two factors: the diameter of the wire and the thickness of its insulation. The American Wire Gauge number is used to measure the diameter of the wire, and the insulation thickness is measured in mils or thousandths of an inch. The thicker the insulation, the less prone the wire will be to short circuits.
Which Gauge Wire Is Thicker?
The thicker gauge wire is the 8 AWG wire. It has the largest diameter and the thickest insulation. It is suitable for high-power applications such as large appliances, air conditioners, and electric stoves. The 12 AWG wire is commonly used in residential wiring and can handle up to 20 amps of current. The thinner wires such as 18 AWG and 22 AWG are suitable for low-power applications such as powering small appliances and electronics.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Thicker Wire?
Using a thicker wire has several advantages. It can handle more power, is more durable and reliable, and is less prone to short circuits. Thicker wires also have a lower resistance which means they have less energy loss. This makes them more efficient and can save you money in the long run.
What Are the Disadvantages of Using a Thicker Wire?
The main disadvantage of using a thicker wire is that it is more expensive and difficult to work with. It may also require a larger conduit or box to house it in.