What is the effect of operating temperature on the copper conductor's voltage drop calculation?

Operating temperature has a significant effect on the voltage drop calculation for copper conductors because as the temperature increases, the resistance of the copper also typically increases. This increase in resistance directly impacts the amount of voltage drop that occurs along the length of the conductor when electrical current flows through it.

When calculating voltage drop, taking temperature into account is essential in ensuring accurate results. This is because the resistance of a conductor is not a constant value; it varies with temperature. Higher temperatures lead to higher resistance, which in turn causes a larger voltage drop for a given current.

Therefore, compensating for temperature in voltage drop calculations is necessary to maintain the efficiency and reliability of the electrical system. This adjustment ensures that the expected performance aligns with the actual conditions under which the system operates, making it a crucial aspect of electrical design and installation.