Home
Back
AIC Calculation:
| From: | To: |
AIC (Ampere Interrupting Capacity) rating represents the maximum short circuit current that an electrical panel or circuit breaker can safely interrupt without failure. It is a critical safety specification for electrical equipment.
The calculator uses the simple formula:
Where:
Explanation: The AIC rating is determined by the maximum short circuit current that the electrical equipment is rated to withstand and safely interrupt.
Details: Proper AIC rating is crucial for electrical safety. Undersized equipment may fail to interrupt fault currents, potentially causing equipment damage, fires, or personal injury. Electrical codes require equipment to have AIC ratings sufficient for the available fault current at their installation point.
Tips: Enter the maximum short circuit current that the panel can withstand in amps. The value must be greater than zero. The calculator will display the corresponding AIC rating.
Q1: Why is AIC rating important?
A: AIC rating ensures that electrical protection devices can safely interrupt fault currents without catastrophic failure, protecting both equipment and personnel.
Q2: How is maximum short circuit current determined?
A: It's calculated based on the electrical system characteristics, including transformer size, impedance, conductor length and size, and other system parameters.
Q3: What are typical AIC ratings for residential vs commercial applications?
A: Residential panels typically have 10,000-22,000 AIC ratings, while commercial/industrial equipment may have ratings from 22,000 to 200,000 amps or higher.
Q4: Can AIC rating be increased?
A: AIC rating is a fixed characteristic of electrical equipment. To increase system AIC capability, you must install equipment with higher ratings or use current-limiting devices.
Q5: What happens if AIC rating is insufficient?
A: Equipment may fail to clear a fault, potentially resulting in arc flash incidents, equipment destruction, fires, and serious injury to personnel.