Which gauge of wire is considered light in insulation applications?

In insulation applications, the 18 gauge wire is considered to be light due to its thinner diameter compared to the other options. Light wire gauges, such as 18 gauge, are often used in residential or low-power applications where the current requirements are minimal. The smaller diameter allows for greater flexibility and ease of handling, which is advantageous in many insulation tasks. Therefore, when selecting wire for lighter applications, the 18 gauge serves as an ideal choice due to its suitability for lower power needs, making it appropriate for a range of electronic and small appliance uses.

The other gauges listed—12, 14, and 16—are generally thicker and are more suited for applications that require a higher current capacity or more robust physical properties, which is why they are not classified as light in this context.