Stop Guessing Cable Sizes: Learn the Professional Method

Most engineers learn cable sizing through trial and error. This course teaches a proven, step-by-step methodology based on SANS 10142 and IEC 60364, helping you size cables accurately, check voltage drop, apply derating factors, and produce professional engineering calculations with confidence.

Size Any Cable Correctly. Every Time. For Any Project.

Master the practical cable sizing methodology used on real-world mining, industrial, petrochemical, and infrastructure projects.

This comprehensive, tool-driven course teaches electrical engineers, technicians, technologists, and graduates how to confidently size LV and MV cables using a professional Excel calculator developed from industry best practices and aligned with SANS and IEC standards.

Move beyond academic theory and learn the complete engineering process—from load calculation and cable selection to documented, client-ready designs.

Many engineers learn cable sizing concepts at university but are left to develop practical skills on live projects, often through trial and error. This course bridges that gap by providing a proven, step-by-step methodology used by experienced electrical engineers in industry.

What You'll Learn

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

  • Calculate cable current-carrying capacity using industry-standard design methods.
  • Perform voltage drop calculations in accordance with IEC 60364 and SANS 10142 requirements.
  • Apply derating factors correctly for ambient temperature, grouping, installation methods, and environmental conditions.
  • Size cables for motors, including starting current considerations and protection coordination.
  • Select the appropriate cable type and installation method for different applications and operating environments.
  • Verify short-circuit withstand capability and protection device compliance.
  • Produce professional cable schedules, calculations, and design documentation suitable for client and engineering review.
  • Identify and correct undersized or oversized cables in existing installations and designs.
  • Use a professional Excel Cable Sizing Calculator to complete projects faster and with greater accuracy.
  • Apply the same cable sizing methodology across South African (SANS) and international (IEC) projects.

Who This Course Is For:

  • Electrical Engineers
  • Engineering Technologists
  • Engineering Technicians
  • Graduate Engineers
  • EPC and Consulting Engineers
  • Mining, Industrial, and Petrochemical Professionals
  • Anyone involved in electrical design, construction, commissioning, or maintenance

By the end of the course, you'll have the confidence to size cables accurately, justify your design decisions, and deliver professional calculations that stand up to client, consultant, and regulatory review.

Example Curriculum

  Module 1: Cable Sizing Fundamentals — Standards, Principles, and the Design Process
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  Module 2: SANS 10142 and IEC 60364 — What Every Engineer Must Know
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  Module 3: Current-Carrying Capacity — Tables, Grouping, and Installation Methods
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  Module 4: Derating Factors — Ambient Temperature, Grouping, Thermal Insulation
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  Module 5: Voltage Drop Calculations — Method, Formula, and Acceptable Limits
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  Module 6: Motor Cable Sizing — Starting Current, Protection, and Coordination
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  Module 7: Professional Cable Schedules and Documentation
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  Module 8: Worked Examples — 4 Complete Projects from Load List to Final Schedule
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  MODULE 9: From Calculation to Design Documentation
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  MODULE 10: Optimising Cost, Quick Estimation & Red Flags
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  MODULE 11: Full Industrial Panel Cable Sizing Exercise
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  COURSE DOWNLOADS
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Meet Your Instructor

I'm M. Shezi, a consulting electrical engineer with 20 years of experience in industrial, commercial, and infrastructure electrical design. I've sized cables for projects ranging from 400V distribution systems to 11kV substations, motor control centres, and commercial buildings.

I created this course because most engineers learn cable sizing through trial and error. This course teaches the structured, practical methodology I wish I'd had when I started.

Testimonial


"This course transformed the way I approach cable sizing. Before taking it, I spent hours checking standards and tables. The calculator and step-by-step methodology gave me a clear process I can apply on every project."
Pearl, Electrical Design Engineer

FAQ

Do I need prior experience with Excel? Basic familiarity is helpful, but the calculator is pre-built. You'll learn to use it — not build it.

Which standards does this course cover? SANS 10142-1, SANS 1507-3/4, SANS 97, and SANS 1339 — the core standards for LV and MV cable sizing in South African practice.

Is this course relevant outside South Africa? The SANS standards are South African, but the engineering principles — voltage drop, derating, short-circuit withstand — apply universally. If you work in Southern Africa or on projects aligned to IEC or similar standards, the methodology translates directly.

What do I need to get started? A computer with Microsoft Excel (2016 or later recommended) and a willingness to work through real engineering problems.

Can my team take this course? Corporate licensing options are available. Contact us directly for team pricing.

Do I need the SANS standards to follow this course?

No — the key clauses are explained and summarised in the course. Access to the standards is helpful but not required to complete the training.

Does the Calculator work on Mac?

Yes — it is an Excel file (.xlsx) compatible with both Windows and Mac versions of Microsoft Excel. It does not work in Google Sheets.

What level of engineering experience do I need?

The course starts from beginner level (Module 1 assumes no prior cable sizing knowledge) and builds to advanced. Graduates and junior engineers will benefit most, but experienced engineers will find the case studies and optimisation module valuable.

Will the calculator and tools be updated?

Yes — enrolled learners receive access to future updates of the Calculator v1.1 and all downloadable resources.

Is this course relevant outside South Africa?

Yes. While SANS 10142 is the South African standard, the methodology mirrors IEC 60364 which is used across Africa, Europe, and most of the world. The voltage drop and derating methods apply regardless of which standard governs your project.

Do I need to know advanced maths?

No. You need basic algebra — multiply, divide, square roots. Every formula is explained step by step with worked examples before you're asked to apply it.

I already know cable sizing basics. Is this too basic for me? The course starts from first principles but moves quickly into derating combinations, motor cable coordination, and professional documentation — areas where most self-taught engineers have gaps. The worked project examples alone are worth it.

What software or tools do I need?

None. All calculations are done manually in the course so you understand the method. If the Professional tier is available, you'll also receive a pre-built Excel calculator.

How is this different from reading the SANS standard myself? The standard tells you the rules. This course shows you how to apply them in sequence on a real project — which table to start with, how to combine derating factors, when to check voltage drop vs current rating first, and how to document the result professionally.

Is there a refund policy? Yes — 30-day money-back guarantee. No questions asked.

Ready to size cables with confidence?


Join electrical engineers across Africa who are applying these methods on real projects.

$79 — one-time payment — lifetime access — 30-day guarantee