Bent copper wire resistance

QuickField simulation example

Calculation of bending effect on wire electrical resistance

Problem Type
3D problem of DC conduction.

Geometry

All dimensions are in millimeters.

Given
Copper electric conductivity σ = 56 MS/m.
Current I = 100 A.

Task
Determine the resistance of the bent copper wire.

Solution
The resistance R is equal to the ratio of voltage drop V to the current I
R = V / I [Ohm]
We apply normal current density j_n = I / A (where A is a wire cross-section area) at current terminal and zero potential at ground terminal. DC conduction simulation yields the current terminal electric potential V.

Result
Electric potential and current distribution in a wire:

Current terminal electric potential V = 0.00168 [V].
Resistance R = 0.00168 / 100 = 16.8 [uOhm].

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