AWG‐to‐mm Converter

What Is AWG (American Wire Gauge)?

American Wire Gauge (AWG) is a standardized system used mainly in the United States and Canada to describe wire thickness.

Key points about AWG:

• A lower AWG number means a thicker wire
• A higher AWG number means a thinner wire
• AWG measures wire size indirectly through diameter and cross-sectional area

For example:

• 10 AWG is much thicker than 20 AWG
• 0000 (4/0) AWG is extremely thick and used for high-current applications

What Does mm² Mean in Wire Sizing?

mm² (square millimeters) refers to the cross-sectional area of a wire.
It is the most common wire size unit used in Europe, Asia, and international standards.

Why mm² matters:

• It directly relates to current-carrying capacity
• It is easier to compare across materials
• It is used in IEC and metric-based electrical systems

Why You Need an AWG-to-mm Converter

An AWG-to-mm converter solves a very common problem: matching wire sizes across different standards.

You need this conversion when:

• Reading international electrical drawings
• Selecting the right wire for current load
• Designing panels or circuits for global use
• Comparing American and metric wire specifications
• Avoiding overheating or voltage drop

Without proper conversion, you risk:

• Undersized wires
• Overheating
• Electrical failure
• Safety hazards

How the AWG-to-mm Converter Works

The converter is based on ASTM B258 standards, which define:

• Wire diameter
• Cross-sectional area
• Gauge relationships

Conversion Modes Available

The calculator supports two conversion types:

1. AWG to mm²

• Select an AWG size
• Instantly get:
  • Cross-sectional area (mm²)
  • Conductor diameter (mm)

2. mm² to AWG

• Enter a metric wire size
• The tool finds the closest matching AWG
• Useful when an exact AWG size does not exist

This approach ensures practical accuracy, not just theoretical matching.

Understanding the Conversion Results

Each conversion shows three key outputs:

1. AWG Size

• Either the selected gauge or the closest match
• Includes special sizes like 4/0, 3/0, 2/0

2. Cross-Sectional Area (mm²)

• Indicates how much current the wire can safely carry
• Larger area = higher current capacity

3. Conductor Diameter (mm)

• Useful for:
  • Cable routing
  • Conduit sizing
  • Mechanical fit checks

Example Conversion

Let’s look at a common case:

• 10 AWG
• Cross-sectional area: 2.63 mm²
• Diameter: 2.30 mm

This means a 10 AWG wire is roughly equivalent to a 2.5–2.6 mm² metric wire, which is commonly used in many regions.

Important Notes About Stranded Wires

The converter is based on solid wire standards.

For stranded wires:

• Use the equivalent cross-sectional area
• Do not rely only on outer diameter
• Always check manufacturer specifications

This ensures accurate current rating and safe operation.

Key Benefits of Using This Converter

• ✅ Fast and accurate conversions
• ✅ Based on recognized ASTM standards
• ✅ Supports both AWG and metric systems
• ✅ Beginner-friendly interface
• ✅ Useful for professionals and DIY users

Common Applications of AWG-to-mm Conversion

• Electrical panel design
• Home wiring projects
• Automotive wiring
• Solar and inverter systems
• Electronics and PCB wiring
• Industrial equipment installation