ABYC Marine Electrical Practice Exam

Conductors of which gauge and larger are permitted to run in parallel if ampacity is appropriate?

1. 10 AWG

2. 12 AWG

3. 8 AWG

4. 14 AWG

The correct answer is: 8 AWG

The correct choice is indicated as 8 AWG because, according to ABYC and other standards, conductors of 8 AWG and larger can be run in parallel provided their ampacity is appropriate for the load being served. This allows for greater flexibility in electrical system designs, as parallel conductors can help to manage higher current loads while reducing resistance and heat buildup in individual wires. With larger gauge conductors, such as 8 AWG, the physical properties of the wire, including its ability to properly dissipate heat and its overall capacity to handle higher currents, make them suitable for parallel configurations. Smaller gauge wires, on the other hand, may not be able to handle the same levels of current when run in parallel and could face issues such as overheating or reduced reliability. Thus, parallel conductors are typically recommended for those gauges that ensure safe operation while delivering the required power.