Ampacity

Ampacity is the maximum amount of current that can be safely carried by a given wire gauge (in the American wire gauge system), it is measured in amperes (A). Lower wire gauges in the American Wire Gauge system, have higher ampacity, meaning that the wire can carry more current. As current passes through a wire, it gets a little hotter; the more current passing through the wire the hotter it gets. If the ampacity rating is surpassed the insulating material is susceptible to damages, and a fire can result.