Every electrical component has a rated steady state current specified at a certain

ambient temperature (in most cases 40 degC). This is the "continuous" current
carrying capacity of the component at the rated operating temperature. If the actual
ambient tempertature in the operating area is higher than the rated ambient
temperature then the "continuous" current carrying capacity of the component is
reduced. This happens due to the physical property of metals which causes the
resistance of the matal to increase with the increase in temperature. Example: A
component rated at 8A @ 40 deg C will be rated at >7A at 50 deg C. At 50 deg C
you can still pass all 8A through the component but it will genenrate more heat and
can eventually burn out.