Busbars for outdoor high voltage switchyards and the use of compression technology

Abstract

The design fundamentals of busbar systems have not changed for many years with various empirical design equations being used to calculate the important performance parameters. As time has progressed, enhancements of design calculations through testing and use of computers has provided a more detailed analysis of busbar performance. With increasing fault levels, the ability of a busbar system to withstand the electromechanical forces resulting from high fault currents becomes a significant design problem.As designers of busbar systems for EnergyAustralia, Enerserve have recently undergone a full review of their busbar design methodologies. This review has formalised an approach and computerised many of the empirical formulae and Australian Standards. High current testing of busbars designed and constructed using Enerserve’s methodologies have validated this new approach.This paper attempts to present many of the key issues faced by the busbar designer with suggestions given based on Enerserve’s most recent experience. Results of the high current testing are also presented and compared to the calculated performance of the designs.