3/36 Electric Wire
The 3/36 electric wire (2.0 mm²) is engineered for medium-load domestic circuits. It safely handles a 15-18A current capacity, making it ideal for power sockets and small pumps.
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Specifications
Technical data sourced from official brand documentation and engineering standards.
| Metric Equivalent | 2.0 mm² |
| Safe Current Capacity | ~16 Amps |
| Max Resistance (at 20°C) | 9.30 Ω/km |
| Standard Voltage Grade | 250/440 V |
| Engineering Standard | BS 2004 |
| Copper Purity | 99.90% |
Description
3/36 Wire: Technical Specifications & Size in mm
The 3/36 electrical cable (often written as 3/.036) is an imperial-gauge wire commonly used in specific domestic electrical installations. Understanding its physical construction is critical for proper application. The numerical designation indicates that the cable contains exactly 3 solid copper strands, with each individual strand measuring 0.036 inches in diameter.
For modern engineering and load calculations, identifying the metric equivalent is essential. The 3/36 wire size in mm translates to a cross-sectional area of approximately 2.0 mm². This size places it directly between the lighter 3/29 (1.5 mm²) and the heavier 7/29 (2.5 mm²) cables, making it a transitional gauge for medium-load requirements.
Usability & Core Applications
Because it features a thicker conductor profile than basic lighting wires, the 3/36 cable offers improved usability for medium-tier residential applications:
- Power Sockets: Suitable for wiring 10A to 15A wall sockets that power standard appliances like irons, microwaves, or vacuum cleaners.
- Domestic Motors: Frequently used to provide stable electrical connections for small domestic water pumps (up to 1 HP) and washing machines.
- Usage Limitation: While it has a higher threshold than 3/29, it must not be used for heavy, continuous-draw equipment such as air conditioners, commercial freezers, or main distribution panels.
Load and Current Capacity
Electrical safety and preventing insulation degradation rely on adhering to the cable's thermal limits. A 100% pure copper 3/36 wire safely carries a continuous current of roughly 15 to 18 Amperes in standard domestic conduit wiring.
In terms of power, this provides a safe load capacity of approximately 3,300W to 3,900W on a standard 220V residential supply. Exceeding this capacity can lead to overheating and potential circuit failure.
Standard Dimensions & Market Pricing
When researching the 3/36 wire price in Pakistan, it is crucial to balance the cost against the provided dimensions. Standard, certified manufacturers will always supply this cable in verified 90-meter coils. Unusually low prices often indicate a shorter coil length (e.g., 75 meters) or the use of lower-grade copper alloys, which severely impact the wire's conductivity and lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is meant by 3/36 wire?
It refers to the internal construction of the electrical cable. The "3" means there are three individual copper strands, while the "36" (or .036) means each strand has a diameter of 0.036 inches.
What is the 3/36 wire size in mm?
When calculated using the diameter of its three strands, the 3/36 imperial measurement is equivalent to a 2.0 mm² metric wire size.
Can a 3/36 wire be used for a water pump?
Yes, due to its 2.0 mm² equivalent thickness and 15A+ current capacity, it is highly suitable and commonly used for small to medium domestic water pumps.
