What does the term "continuous load" refer to in electrical calculations?

The term "continuous load" refers to an electrical load that is expected to run for three hours or more continuously. In electrical design and calculations, understanding continuous loads is crucial because they must be accounted for when determining the capacity and sizing of electrical systems, such as conductors, transformers, and circuit breakers. The National Electrical Code (NEC) defines continuous loads to ensure that electrical installations can handle prolonged usage without overheating or causing failure. This understanding helps in ensuring safety and reliability in electrical installations, making it a critical component in electrical planning.

When categorizing loads, other descriptions like variable loads or temporary loads do not meet the criteria for continuous loads since they either change frequently or are only present during specific peak usage times. Additionally, the ability to disconnect a load does not pertain to its classification as a continuous load, but rather speaks to its design in terms of safety and convenience in operations.