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Wire Math

Guide

AWG, SWG, and mm² Documentation Guide (UK)

A documentation workflow for handling mixed wire units in quotes, drawings, and handover packs while staying metric-first in UK projects.

Overview

Documentation discipline prevents conversion drift. Standardise on mm², retain source-unit traceability, and keep assumptions visible from quote to handover.

Set the Canonical Unit Once

In UK project paperwork, define mm² as the canonical conductor-size unit at the top of the document set.

Treat AWG and SWG as source-language fields only. Convert them, then carry the approved mm² value into all downstream records.

Quote and Procurement Template

Use a three-column pattern: source spec (AWG or SWG), converted value, selected mm² for ordering. This keeps commercial and technical teams aligned.

Add a short assumptions note for material, one-way length conventions, and operating temperature where relevant.

Drawing and Handover Consistency

Avoid switching between AWG and mm² inside the same drawing pack. Mixed labels increase review friction and increase rework risk.

During handover, include conversion rationale for any imported equipment requirements so future maintenance teams can audit the choice quickly.

Change Control for Late Spec Updates

If a supplier revises an AWG value late in procurement, re-run conversion and dependent checks rather than patching one field in isolation.

Version the update in your worksheet and note whether the selected mm² changed. This prevents silent drift between quote, purchase order, and installation records.

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References