20 AWG for 11A Power, Cross-Sect == 0.52 mm 22 AWG for 7A Power , Cross-Sect == 0.33 mm

AWG Wire Specifications

AWG Size Dia (mm) Cross-Sect (mm²) Res (Ohms/km) Max A (Chassis Wiring) Max A (Power Transmission)
10 2.59 5.26 3.28 55 15
12 2.05 3.31 5.21 41 9.3
14 1.63 2.08 8.29 32 5.9
16 1.29 1.31 13.2 22 3.7
18 1.02 0.823 21.0 16 2.3
20 0.812 0.518 33.5 11 1.5
22 0.644 0.326 53.2 7 0.92
24 0.511 0.205 84.2 3.5 0.577
26 0.405 0.129 133 2.2 0.361
28 0.321 0.081 212 1.4 0.226
30 0.255 0.051 338 0.86 0.142

Notes:

  • Chassis Wiring: Refers to wires used in open air, where heat dissipation is better.
  • Power Transmission: Refers to wires used in bundles or conduits, where heat dissipation is limited.
  • Current ratings are approximate and depend on insulation type, ambient temperature, and application.
Item Max A (Chassis Wiring) Max A (Power Transmission)
Description Internal wiring (e.g., inside devices) Power delivery wiring (long distance)
Typical Use Case Control panels, electronics, enclosures Building wiring, power supply cables
Wire Length Short Long
Heat Dissipation Good Poor
Load Duration Intermittent or short-term Continuous or long-term
Current Rating (same wire) Higher Lower
Example (16 AWG copper wire) ~22 A ~10–13 A
Safety Margin Less conservative More conservative