Answer
Nov 06, 2025 - 09:19 AM
For marine use the minimum wire size permitted for any load is determined by the ABYC Ampacity Tables. The current allowed for any wire size is determined by the insulation rating of the wire. Higher insulation ratings allow more current. The typical wire used in boats has an insulation of 105 deg C. The table gives the basic rating but it can be reduced if the wire is in an engine room (because it is assumed the ambient temperature in the engine room is higher than elsewhere). In low voltage DC Circuits the minimum wire size isnt always appropriate because the Voltage Drop Tables are likely to require a larger size.
