In a 4 11/16 in. x 1 1/2 in. square box, what is the maximum number of 12 AWG conductors permitted?

To determine the maximum number of 12 AWG conductors allowed in a 4 11/16 inch by 1 1/2 inch square box, we first need to understand the box fill requirements outlined in the National Electrical Code (NEC).

According to NEC guidelines, each conductor occupies a specific volume within an electrical box. For 12 AWG wire, each conductor requires 2.25 cubic inches of space.

Next, we calculate the volume of the box in cubic inches. A square box is determined by multiplying its dimensions. The dimensions in inches would convert from 4 11/16 to approximately 4.6875 inches. Thus, the volume of the box is:

Volume = Length x Width x Depth

Assuming a standard depth for the box of 2 inches, the calculation yields approximately 4.6875 inches x 4.6875 inches x 2 inches. This results in a total volume of about 43.906 cubic inches.

Now, dividing the total volume of the box by the volume occupied by each conductor gives us the maximum number of conductors permitted. In this case, 43.906 cubic inches divided by 2.25 cubic inches per conductor equals approximately