What size wire is the best to use for building flashlights? I’m in the process of picking up some Convoy hosts and getting a
list of supplies together.
Also, what’s better to go with, Silicone wire or Teflon wire?
What size wire is the best to use for building flashlights? I’m in the process of picking up some Convoy hosts and getting a
list of supplies together.
Also, what’s better to go with, Silicone wire or Teflon wire?
Singles, triples, Quads??
Silicon has thicker but more flexible insulation, Teflon is thin but stiff, it’s also tougher to cut. 22-24 Awg is fine for single 3V emitters, triples and above or higher currents go 20-18awg. Get both, I use them for different needs. For e-switch lights you’ll want some 28-32awg. Fwiw, the more flexible silicon puts less stress on the wire at solder joints. Teflon, being stiffer, is more likely to have the wire snap at the solder joint.
Mostly singles and possibly a triple in the future.
Is there a chart that shows how many max amps each AWG can handle?
Yes… several! :person_facepalming:
Here’s one at Engineering Toolbox that might be useful to you.
That depends on the current the wire will be handling. I don’t normally go higher than 5vdc (converted to 3.3vdc with a resistor) and 50ma. So I use 18 gauge, which is plenty thick.
Ehhh, for no more than 5v and 50mA, 24 gauge would be plenty!