Steady-state and transient ratings of electric wire

The Need for an accurate, reliable method of determining wire ratings has been apparent for some time. Present current ratings have been in use for many years and are unduly conservative because of the large safety factors included. The idea of the large safety factors undoubtedly came from the desire to allow for all possible uses of the wire. This does not make any allowances for different environments or service for the wire. With the increasing importance of weight and cost considerations, an accurate, reliable, and easily used method of determining wire ratings has become a necessity.