Which table in the NEC pertains to wire ampacity?

• A. Table 240.4
• B. Table 310.12
• C. Table 310.16
• D. Table 210.19

Answer: (C)

Wire ampacity is the maximum current a conductor can carry continuously without overheating, and it depends on the conductor size, insulation type, and temperature rating. The NEC provides a single reference table that lists these allowable currents for insulated conductors across sizes and insulation temperature ratings (60°C, 75°C, 90°C). That table is Table 310.16. It covers insulated conductors rated from 60 to 2000 volts and shows the ampacity for each size and temperature rating, allowing you to pick a conductor that can safely carry the circuit’s expected current. Other NEC tables handle related topics such as overcurrent protection sizing or temperature adjustment factors, but for the conductor’s own ampacity, Table 310.16 is the standard reference.