Which AWG size is listed as the minimum for flexible cords to be protected from overcurrent devices?

Which AWG size is listed as the minimum for flexible cords to be protected from overcurrent devices?

• A. 18
• B. 16
• C. 14
• D. 12

Answer: (A)

Overcurrent protection for flexible cords must be matched to the cord’s ampacity. The device protecting the circuit should be rated so it trips before the cord overheats under its maximum load. For general-use flexible cords, the smallest allowable conductor size listed for this protection is 18 AWG. This sets the lower limit: you can use cords no smaller than 18 AWG, but you may also use larger gauges (16, 14, 12) which have higher ampacities and can be protected by higher-rated devices. In short, 18 AWG is the minimum size that can be safely protected by overcurrent devices.

Overcurrent protection for flexible cords must be matched to the cord’s ampacity. The device protecting the circuit should be rated so it trips before the cord overheats under its maximum load. For general-use flexible cords, the smallest allowable conductor size listed for this protection is 18 AWG. This sets the lower limit: you can use cords no smaller than 18 AWG, but you may also use larger gauges (16, 14, 12) which have higher ampacities and can be protected by higher-rated devices. In short, 18 AWG is the minimum size that can be safely protected by overcurrent devices.