Busbars or bus bars are used to conduct a substantial current of electricity and are placed inside switchgear or busways. A busbar system is designed to provide power distribution using rigid copper or aluminum conductors and resolve cable issues. This tried and tested technology is for buildings that require medium to a high levels of power. Also, it has become a preference for construction industries. Still, some rely on cabling as their preferred choice. Here, we’ll discuss some reasons to choose busbars over cables. First, let’s discuss some applications of a busbar.
Applications of Busbars
An electrical busbar is a conductor or a group of conductors used to collect electric power from feeders and distribute power from there. In simple words, busbars are like electric junctions where incoming, as well as outgoing currents meet. They are designed in a variety of shapes, like rods, strips, solid bars, etc. Typically, they are made of brass, copper, and aluminum. Laminated and flexible are the two types of busbars.
Some applications of laminate busbars are-
- Base stations
- Cellular communication system
- Large network equipment
- Power generation system
- Power switch system, etc.
Besides, flexible busbars are used in transformers, fuel cell vehicles, etc.
What are the benefits of choosing busbars over cables?
There are several benefits of using busbars in electrical distribution systems. For example, it simplifies the electrical power distribution process, reduces overall cost, and allows more flexibility. Though busbars are a bit more expensive than a wire, they last longer and don’t need to be replaced regularly. Furthermore, they distribute power efficiently and reduce energy consumption. The best thing is, busbars can withstand tough weather conditions, which makes them a good solution for switchyards or electrical substations.
Some benefits of choosing a busbar over cables are as under-
Busbars have a compact design
When it comes to comparing a busbar with cables, the first and foremost thing that comes to mind is the compact size of busbars. It is one of the most important advantages of choosing a busbar over cables. A cable needs a large bend radius that consumes a lot of space.
Another advantage of the compact size of a busbar is that the conductors compressed inside the busbar are isolated. Furthermore, the compact design of a consumer unit busbar is easy on the eye.
Busbars are flexible
Busbars are so flexible that they can fit in any structure and have a modular design. You can relocate busbars without having to spend money. Also, you can modify them to fit into any space. On the other hand, when cables are installed, there is more possibility of changing, moving, or expanding the system, which can be expensive.
Busbars offer better resistance
Busbars offer much better resistance than cables. In busbar casing, each conductor is separated by a minimum distance, which reduces the resistance induction. Also, busbars have low density levels as they have a thin flat tire that aids in an optimal current distribution and decreases resistance. As a result, the voltage loss is much lower in busbars than cables.
Busbars have quick and safe installation
Busbars are designed to completely fit the space required before its installation on the site. They can be installed quickly and easily resulting in reduced expenses. When it comes to installing cables, they require a lot of manpower, and are difficult to install. However, busbars can be installed quickly. In fact, 10 meters of busbar can be installed at a time. Plus, there is no need of any special tools for installing busbars.
Hopefully, now you have a better understanding of why should you choose a busbar over cables.