What is the minimum cubic inch capacity of a box containing six 14 AWG and six 12 AWG conductors?

To determine the minimum cubic inch capacity of an electrical box containing six conductors of 14 AWG and six conductors of 12 AWG, it is necessary to apply the box fill calculation rules set forth in the National Electrical Code (NEC).

Each conductor counts towards the fill capacity of the box. For each 14 AWG conductor, it is necessary to allocate 2 cubic inches, while for each 12 AWG conductor, 2.25 cubic inches is allocated.

First, we can calculate the total volume required for the 14 AWG conductors. With six conductors at 2 cubic inches apiece, the total for the 14 AWG conductors is:

• 6 conductors * 2 in³/each = 12 in³.

Next, we calculate the total volume needed for the 12 AWG conductors. With six conductors at 2.25 cubic inches apiece, the total for the 12 AWG conductors is:

• 6 conductors * 2.25 in³/each = 13.5 in³.

Now, we add these values together:

• Total volume = 12 in³ (for 14 AWG) + 13