Hello,
I'm trying to shop around for a possible extension cord for this 250v, 50amp outlet.
We'd be trying to use an electric dryer from this, but would preferably have it extend nearer a window on the other side of a garage (~25-30 ft, generous measurement). We'd likely pick up an older, used, basic dryer model, and not sure what those electrical needs will specifically be, but trying to plan ahead in case something needs to be altered.
This is the closest I've found which might work:
https://www.homedepot.com/p/VEVOR-Extension-Cord-25-ft-10-Wire-Gauge-Heavy-Duty-Outdoor-Welder-Extension-Cord-with-3-Prong-30-Amp-Power-Extension-HJLJQ10-3-25FTYCXV1/320761106
Most other cords with 3 prongs had them sort of curved/circular. Yet, this says only 30 amps.
Is there different or specific wording which might assist my search? Or would something like the above cord work for our situation?
Thank you for taking the time to read my post. I appreciate any advice or directions.
Mmm stranded wire carries the same amount of current just fine, if not better due to the skin effect. Current likes surface area more than cross-sectional volume. 12g stranded does the same work as 12g solid. You do have to upsize for aluminum wire over copper, though - and cheap stuff will use aluminum every time.
Your final point is accurate though. Dont go using a 50a circuit for a 30a load, that's how you have a fire.
Edit: i stand corrected
No, that's actually wrong in the case of wall power. The skin effect only appears as any significant contributer at frequencies far above normal house wiring. Furthermore, the carrying capacity of a wire (for not high frequency AC) is determined by how many charge carriers the medium can move, as in how much actual conductive metal is there. Stranded wires have less cross sectional area than solid for the same guage.
So in the right context, you'd be correct, but this isn't that case. See https://www.electricalelibrary.com/en/2021/11/17/skin-effect-what-is-it/ for some info. Notice how even 30khz has significant current flowing at depths that easily reaches the core of smaller house wiring.
Ah, fair point! Thanks.