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Cable Size Conversion Tables | mm / mm² / B&S/AWG
Cable reference tool
Quick cable size converter
Choose the cable sizing system you have, then select its size to compare all published table matches at a glance.
Choose a sizing system, then a cable size.
How to read the colour: green is the same or a larger conductor area; red is smaller. These are the closest entries stated in the published tables below, not a cable recommendation. An automotive “mm” label can describe overall cable diameter rather than conductor area. Confirm the manufacturer’s mm² area, current rating, installation conditions and applicable standards.
Put the cable size into a real RV plan
See the result in the wiring app, or map all cable runs for the complete system.
Cable Size Conversion Tables
Navigating through the different standards of cable sizes can be a complex task, especially when transitioning between metric (mm and mm²) and imperial (B&S/AWG) systems. To simplify this process, we've created three detailed conversion tables. Each table serves as a crucial tool, allowing professionals and enthusiasts alike to quickly find equivalent cable sizes across these different measurement systems.
mm² to mm and B&S/AWG Conversion Table
This table provides a direct conversion from the metric cross-sectional area (mm²) to the approximate equivalent diameter in millimeters (mm) and the closest B&S/AWG size. It's particularly useful in scenarios where you know the cable's capacity (mm²) but need to find its equivalent size in different systems for compatibility or specification purposes.
| Cable Size mm² | Closest mm Equivalent Cable Size | Closest B&S/AWG Equivalent Cable Size |
|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | 3 | 17 |
| 1.5 | 4 | 15 |
| 2.5 | 5 | 13 |
| 4.0 | 6 | 11 |
| 6.0 | N/A | 9 |
| 10.0 | N/A | 7 |
| 16.0 | N/A | 6 |
| 25.0 | N/A | 3 |
| 35.0 | N/A | 2 |
| 50.0 | N/A | 0 or 1/0 |
| 70.0 | N/A | 00 or 2/0 |
| 95.0 | N/A | 000 or 3/0 |
| 120.0 | N/A | 0000 or 4/0 |
After identifying the equivalent conductor area, compare the cable construction needed for the circuit rather than choosing on size alone. Our automotive cable by the metre suits vehicle and general low-voltage runs, while solar cable by the metre is intended for PV connections. Check the voltage, temperature, flexibility and environmental ratings required by the installation.
mm to mm² and B&S/AWG Conversion Table
Ideal for when you have a cable's diameter in mm and need to determine its equivalent cross-sectional area (mm²) or the nearest B&S/AWG size. This table is essential for tasks requiring precise calculations of current carrying capacity or when working with international or older systems that use different measurement standards.
| Cable Size mm | Actual mm² | Closest mm² Equivalent | Closest B&S/AWG Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 1.13 | 1 | 17 |
| 4 | 1.84 | 1.5 | 15 |
| 5 | 2.9 | 2.5 | 13 |
| 6 | 4.59 | 4 | 11 |
The converted conductor size also needs compatible terminations. Match cable lugs and terminals to the actual conductor area and connection stud, then select correctly sized heat shrink where it forms part of the termination and insulation plan.
B&S/AWG to mm² and mm Conversion Table
This table comes in handy when working with cables primarily labelled in the B&S or AWG system, common in North America and in certain Australian industries, particularly the automotive industry. It allows for easy translation of these sizes into the more universally recognized metric measurements (mm and mm²), aiding in ensuring compliance and compatibility in global or diverse electrical setups.
| Cable Size B&S/AWG | Actual mm² | Closest mm² Equivalent | Closest mm Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| 17 | 1.04 | 1 | 3 |
| 16 | 1.31 | 1.5 | 3 |
| 15 | 1.65 | 1.5 | 4 |
| 14 | 2.08 | 2.5 | 4 |
| 13 | 2.62 | 2.5 | 5 |
| 12 | 3.31 | 4 | 5 |
| 11 | 4.17 | 4 | 6 |
| 10 | 5.26 | 6 | 6 |
| 9 | 6.63 | 6 | N/A |
| 8 | 8.37 | 10 | N/A |
| 7 | 10.55 | 10 | N/A |
| 6 | 13.30 | 16 | N/A |
| 5 | 16.76 | 16 | N/A |
| 4 | 21.15 | 20 | N/A |
| 3 | 26.67 | 25 | N/A |
| 2 | 33.62 | 32 | N/A |
| 1 | 42.41 | N/A | N/A |
| 0 | 53.49 | 50 | N/A |
| 00 or 2/0 | 67.43 | 70 | N/A |
| 000 or 3/0 | 85.03 | 95 | N/A |
| 0000 or 4/0 | 107.22 | 120 | N/A |
For high-current battery or inverter runs, the table can help interpret labels before comparing battery and welding cable by the metre. Cable selection must be coordinated with correctly rated fuses, holders and DC circuit breakers, because conversion alone does not establish allowable current or required protection.
Turn the Conversion into a Cable Choice
Use these tables to translate the cable label, then compare the actual conductor area, construction, voltage and temperature ratings against the requirements of the circuit. The conversion gives you a useful reference point; the manufacturer’s product specification confirms whether a particular cable suits the installation.
Before You Choose
The information in these tables is compiled for general reference purposes and should be used as a guide. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, variations in manufacturing standards and cable types can lead to differences. For critical applications, it's advisable to consult detailed manufacturer specifications or seek professional advice to ensure precise and safe electrical installations.
