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

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

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

Summary

These conversion tables are crafted to bridge the gap between different cable sizing standards, aiding in the selection of the correct cable for various applications. Their use promotes not only efficiency but also safety in electrical installations. By providing quick and easy conversions, these tables are invaluable tools for professionals, hobbyists, and students alike, ensuring that they can navigate through the complexities of cable sizing with confidence and precision.

Disclaimer

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.