In article , wrote:
toller wrote:

...Since the circuit cannot carry more than 80% of maximum capacity...

This statement is only partially correct. The 80% limitation refers to
continuous loads, as defined in the NEC. The Code does not prohibit operating
non-continuous loads at 100% of the circuit's rated capacity.

It seems mentally unhealthy to imagine the NEC is based solely on physical
reality, vs the interests of wire manufacturers and insurance companies :-)

The NEC is based on the desire to avoid fire and electrocution hazards.

The fusing current for 12 ga wire is 235 amps.

Which is, of course, totally irrelevant to the amount of current that can
safely be handled by 12ga wire without, for example, igniting its insulation.

--
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?