In article , Unquestionably Confused wrote:

Here's relatively current (no pun intended) information on ampacity from
the NEC Code Table 310.17. It appears that #12, depending on type of
wiring IS rated to up to 40 amps and #10 as high as 55 amps depending on
specific factors.

http://www.houwire.com/catalog/techn...icle310_17.asp

NEC Table 310.16, again dealing with ampacity, allows up to 30 amp and
40 amp for #12 and #10, respectively.

http://www.houwire.com/catalog/techn...icle310_16.asp

You apparently missed the footnote at the bottom of each of those tables:

"* Small Condutors. Unless specifically permitted in 240.4(E) through (G), the
overcurrent protection shall not exceed 15 amperes for 14 AWG, 20 amperes for
12 AWG, and 30 amperes for 10 AWG copper; or 15 amperes for 12 AWG and 25
amperes for 10 AWG aluminum and copper-clad aluminum after any correction
factors for ambient temperature and number of conductors have been applied."


--
Regards,
Doug Miller (alphageek at milmac dot com)

Nobody ever left footprints in the sands of time by sitting on his butt.
And who wants to leave buttprints in the sands of time?