Prefaces

Preface to 1984 Edition

This C.D.A. publication has long been accepted as the standard reference work on busbar design. This revised and updated edition incorporates recent progress in the technology of busbar design as reflected in new standards and engineering practices.

All data and formulae have been metricated and the method of presentation facilitates the use of calculators or computers. The many variables to be considered are clearly explained and special attention has been given to determining the most economic loadings in order to maximise current carrying capacity for minimum installation costs and running losses. There is, therefore, a useful comparison of the electrical and mechanical properties of high conductivity copper and aluminium. Extra attention has been given to recommended jointing techniques, both by bolting and welding.

Improvements have also been made to the section dealing with skin effects. The information on impedance has been expanded so that power factor variations can now be further predicted. The tables of ratings and properties have been expanded as have the examples of typical calculations. The references have been updated to include recent publications.

CDA wishes to acknowledge the considerable help given in the revision of this text by Mr G M Boothman, Chief Engineer, Busbar Unit, Balfour Beatty Power Construction Ltd and by Mr W Jefferies, Chief Metallurgist, Thomas Bolton & Sons Ltd. also for many helpful comments made on the text by Mr K G Cary (Simplex - G.E. Ltd),              Mr A Jackson (GAMBICA), Mr J C Power (British Electric Repairs Ltd), Mr E G Wright (Ottermill Switchgear Ltd) and members of the British Non-Ferrous Metals Federation High Conductivity Copper Group.

Preface to 1996 Edition

This edition includes the new BS EN copper alloy designations and corrections to errors which appeared in the earlier version.

BUSBAR DESIGN DATA DISC

In order to assist in the design of effective busbar systems, CDA has made available an interactive software program that allows optimum busbar size to be calculated, taking into account configuration, working temperature and overall lifetime cost.