In a 3-wire circuit, should a common conductor be counted when the conductors carry similar load currents?

In a 3-wire circuit, it is essential to consider the role of the common conductor, especially when assessing conductor load capacities. The common conductor is considered vital in these calculations because it carries a portion of the current that flows through the circuit. Even if each of the other two conductors is carrying similar load currents, the common conductor helps in establishing a balanced load, which is significant for the performance and safety of the circuit.

In this context, counting the common conductor is critical for ensuring that the wire gauge is sufficient to handle the total expected load without overheating or exceeding the ampacity ratings. The principle behind this is that the common conductor can share some of the load, promoting better electrical efficiency. Therefore, correctly counting it contributes to accurately determining the total load capacity and ensuring the circuit's safe operation.

The reasoning for not counting the common conductor in other contexts would not apply here, as the focus is on maintaining proper balance and safety across the circuit's conductors.