Transformer Sizing Calculator for Arizona
NEC 2017 transformer sizing math for EV charger installers working in Arizona.
DCFC and large workplace EV deployments in Arizona typically need a dedicated 480 V three-phase service, which means sizing a pad-mount or dry-type transformer against the connected charger load plus the NEC 2017 continuous-load multiplier.
Worked example for Arizona
A 180 kW DC fast charger draws roughly 217 A at 480 V three-phase. Applying the 125% continuous-load factor (180 × 1.25 ≈ 225 kVA), then rounding up to the next standard transformer rating gives a 225 kVA minimum. Arizona's 108°F summer ambient does not directly derate the transformer, but it does push the secondary feeder ampacity down by 0.75× — so the secondary copper has to be sized accordingly.
Code & Utilities
EV installations in Arizona are governed by the 2017 National Electrical Code, in force since 2018. That includes Article 625 EVSE rules and the 125% continuous-load factor on charging branch circuits, though some 2020-cycle changes (like expanded EMS provisions) are not yet enforced statewide.
Major electric utilities serving Arizona include Arizona Public Service, Salt River Project, Tucson Electric Power. Each has its own service-upgrade timeline, EV rebate availability, and metering rules — confirm them before quoting commercial work.
Climate & Ampacity
Plan EV feeders against a 108°F ambient in Arizona — the resulting NEC 310.15(B) correction of 0.75× is what trims a #6 THWN-2 down to its true continuous rating. Because the correction is below 0.9, conductors that "look fine" on a 30°C ampacity table will not carry their nameplate current here — always derate explicitly.
Arizona takeaway
Coordinate primary-side voltage, impedance, and fault-current specs with Arizona Public Service early — interconnection lead times for new pad-mounts in Arizona can run 6-12 months on commercial DCFC sites.