WireMath

20 hp motor: how many amps?

Full-load current from NEC Article 430 tables.

54 A

20 hp motor full-load current at 230 V three-phase · 14.92 kW output

Full-load current by voltage

SupplyFull-load ampsConductor ampacity (125%)
208 V three-phase59.4 A74.2 A
230 V three-phase54 A67.5 A
460 V three-phase27.0 A33.8 A

NEC 430.248/430.250 table values for typical induction motors; use these (not the nameplate) to size conductors and short-circuit protection, and the nameplate for overload protection.

FAQ

How many amps does a 20 hp motor draw?

Per NEC tables, 59.4 A A at 208 V three-phase; 54 A A at 230 V three-phase; 27.0 A A at 460 V three-phase.

How many watts is 20 hp?

20 hp = 14920 W of mechanical output. Electrical input is higher because of motor efficiency and power factor.