What is the continuous current carrying capacity for copper cables that are 4/0?

The continuous current carrying capacity for copper cables that are 4/0 is indeed 400 amps. This rating is based on industry standards that take into account factors like the cable's construction, insulation type, ambient temperature, and installation conditions.

Copper, being an excellent conductor, has favorable properties that allow it to handle significant electrical loads without overheating. The 4/0 gauge is a measurement that indicates a specific diameter of the wire, larger than smaller gauges, which allows it to carry higher currents. In typical applications, a 4/0 copper cable is commonly accepted to support a continuous load of up to 400 amps safely.

It's important to note that while other capacities exist for different wire sizes or materials (like aluminum), for this specific gauge and copper material, 400 amps is widely recognized as an optimal and safe limit for continuous use.