What is the maximum number of 12 AWG conductors allowed in a four-inch by 1.5-inch square box according to Table 314.16(A)?

To determine the maximum number of 12 AWG conductors allowed in a four-inch by 1.5-inch square box, we refer to Table 314.16(A) of the National Electrical Code (NEC). This table provides capacity allowances for boxes based on their dimensions and the size of the conductors.

For a four-inch by 1.5-inch box, we first need to calculate its total volume. A standard square box of this size has a volume of 4 inches x 1.5 inches x height. Assuming the height is 2.5 inches (a typical height for many electrical boxes), the total volume would be approximately 15 cubic inches.

Next, according to NEC guidelines, each 12 AWG conductor requires a specific amount of volume for proper installation and to allow for safe operation without overcrowding the box. Typically, a 12 AWG conductor would take up about 2 cubic inches of space.

By dividing the total capacity of the box (15 cubic inches) by the space required per conductor (2 cubic inches), we find that the box can accommodate approximately 7.5 conductors. Since we cannot have a fraction of a conductor, we round down to the nearest whole number, which is