Load Current Calculator

Calculate electrical load current for various types of loads including resistive, inductive, and capacitive loads in both AC and DC circuits.

Circuit Type

Types of Electrical Loads

Resistive Load

R
• Incandescent bulbs
• Electric heaters
• Resistors
• PF = 1.0

Inductive Load

L
• Motors
• Transformers
• Inductors
• PF = 0.7-0.9 (lagging)

Capacitive Load

C
• Capacitor banks
• LED drivers
• Power supplies
• PF = 0.8-0.95 (leading)

Calculation Method

Power & Voltage Method

W
V

About Load Current Calculation

Load current calculation is essential for proper electrical system design, wire sizing, and circuit protection. Different types of loads have different current characteristics.

Load Types:

  • Resistive: Heaters, incandescent bulbs (PF = 1.0)
  • Inductive: Motors, transformers (PF = 0.7-0.9 lagging)
  • Capacitive: Power supplies, LED drivers (PF = 0.8-0.95 leading)
  • Non-linear: Switch-mode supplies, variable frequency drives

Design Considerations:

  • Wire ampacity must exceed load current
  • Breaker size: 125% of continuous load current
  • Voltage drop: limit to 3% for branch circuits
  • Power factor correction for large inductive loads

Safety Requirements:

  • Follow NEC (National Electrical Code) guidelines
  • Use proper overcurrent protection
  • Consider derating factors for multiple conductors
  • Account for ambient temperature effects