# How to Figure the Wire Size for a Thread Gauge
Wire size is expressed in the American Wire Gauge (AWG) system for standardized sizes in the United States and Canada. The wiring size dictates the amount of current that can be safely used in electrical applications. Wiring that is too small in diameter will short circuit electric appliances or can become too hot and cause a fire. Using an AWG wire gauge correctly helps you determine the size of wire.
Things You'll Need
- Wire strippers
- AWG wire gauge
- Utility knife
Instructions
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1
Place a pair of wire strippers about 2 inches from the end of the wire to be measured. Squeeze the jaws closed onto the wire. Twist the wire strippers and pull them off the end of the wire.
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2
Peel any insulation off the internal wires that may be left behind after stripping the wire.
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3
Hold the internal wires by the exposed tip. Place the wires into an AWG wire gauge opening that appears about the same size.
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4
Remove the wires and place it in the next size up and down on each side of the first area you inserted the wire. The correct wire size is the slot that the wire fits snugly and entirely into.
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5
Read the AWG number below the wire in the correct opening for the wire size.
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1
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