50A wire size at 12V over 10 ft (copper)
Recommended4 AWG
- Limited by
- voltage_drop
- Ampacity
- 85 A
- Voltage drop
- 2.57%
- Req. ampacity
- 50 A
NEC 310.16 derated + 210.19(A) voltage drop + 210.19(A) 125% continuous
Why this size
At 12V, voltage drop usually decides the conductor before ampacity does — the lower the voltage, the more the drop matters over distance. CircuitProof sizes to whichever constraint is stricter, then cites the code basis used. For this 10 ft run at 50A, the limiting factor is voltage_drop.
Aluminum runs about two AWG sizes larger than copper for the same load, and continuous loads add a 125% factor. Always confirm terminations and breaker ratings against the installed conductor.
Related
Planning aid only — not a P.Eng/PE stamp. Verify with a licensed electrician and applicable codes (NEC, ABYC, CSA) before installation.