Maximum demand in Australian load worksheets

A workflow guide for preparing user-entered maximum-demand rows before using the AUWiring switchboard load calculator.

Worksheet purpose

Maximum demand work should leave a traceable row record. The calculator can add entered rows and show worksheet totals, but it does not decide every demand assumption for the project.

The useful result is a structured review record: load groups, current or power basis, entered demand assumptions, spare capacity notes and the next technical check for the project.

Workflow

  1. Prepare each load row before opening the calculator.
  2. Confirm the unit and source for current, kW or kVA.
  3. Enter demand or allowance assumptions as visible row values.
  4. Keep spare capacity and future allowance notes separate from present connected load.
  5. Review the result before carrying it into cable, switchboard or supply work.

Maximum-demand row fields

Maximum-demand worksheet fields
FieldPurposeReview point
Load groupIdentifies the row ownerAvoid duplicate or missing loads
Entered valueCurrent, power or apparent power basisCheck the source and unit
Demand assumptionUser-entered factor or allowanceKeep the basis visible
Phase basisSingle-phase, three-phase or groupedAffects current and balance review
Review noteStandards, DNSP or design caveatPrevents overclaiming the worksheet

Reading the result

A maximum-demand result is a planning output. It can show whether entered rows produce a plausible worksheet total and where assumptions need review. It cannot confirm supply availability, switchboard suitability or final compliance by itself.

Use the phase-balancing calculator when single-phase row allocation matters. Use cable calculators when the demand current needs route or cable review.

Boundaries

  • Do not hide demand assumptions inside unexplained totals.
  • Do not copy fixed demand rules into public page text.
  • Do not treat spare capacity as present demand.
  • Do not describe a worksheet result as approval for installation.

Questions

Does the maximum-demand calculator replace a standards assessment?

No. It is a user-entered worksheet. Demand factors, project assumptions, authority requirements and current standards remain the reviewer responsibility.

Why are demand factors entered by the user?

Demand assumptions depend on the project method and current source documents. The public calculator records entered assumptions instead of publishing a fixed rule table.