Re: Wire gauge for a certain length and load?

On May 10, 10:30�am, Chris Hill <hil...@xxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
On 09 May 2008 13:41:15 GMT, snyper333_at_hotmail_dot_...@xxxxxxx





(chenopod) wrote:
I have a few questions that involve simple electrical wire theory, but the
situation gets a little bit complicated.

I am trying to run an extension cord (or cords) into the woods to power a
stage, with fairly powerful musical equipment, lights, PA, etc.

I'm assuming the power outlets that will be available are standard
grounded 120 Volt, hopefully on the heavy duty side. The equipment I'm
looking to power totals several thousand watts (rated at, lets say, 3000
W). �However, the power draw is not consistent... it fluctuates with how
hard the equipment is being pushed from moment to moment. �

The distance is more than 1000 feet (probably more like 2000 ft). �If I
were to buy a single cord that is suitable for this job, I'm guessing the
outlet itself would be the limiting factor in terms of resistance and
heat, and I don't want to start any fires. �I'm not even sure if a wire
that is a large enough gauge would even come with the standard outlet
plug.

At this power draw and distance, even several 120-V outlets might not do
the job, if the wire that runs from the power lines to the outlet box (or
any internal wiring) is not a heavy enough gauge. �For this type of job,
do I need to look into other methods of getting enough power from the pole
besides running several extension cords?

Does anyone have any specific advice on how to tackle this problem? (i.e.
what type of gauge wire, how many extension cords, how to correctly tap
the power lines, etc.)

Your help is most appreciated.

3kw is at least 30a of 120v current. �You could plug it all into two
outlets on two circuit breakers, if you weren't 3000 feet away. �Since
you are, there would be a great deal of loss in the lines going back,
and you'd have to run two cords. �Your best bet is to rent one large
quiet generator; get 4-5kw so you aren't pushing it too hard. �If you
want to buy something, buy a pair of Honda EU 2000 units with the
parallel wiring kit. �They are very quiet and will likely last forever
in the use you propose. �This would probably be only about double the
price you'd pay for the wiring to do the job with extension cords, and
it would actually work.- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -

if its a one shot deal, the best bet is a generator.

if its a long term use location direct burial cable, or even get a
quote from the local power company for some poles and a transformer at
the site.

such a estimate should be free.

if you can get a vehicle to the location, and thats likely given the
equiptement used.

a generator powered from a vehicle, or a inverter on a vehicle, or two
inverters on 2 seperate vehicles might be cost effective.

inverters are nice to have around
.

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