 The Conductors The conductors may be round, square, or octagonal tubes. Molded epoxy resin or porcelain insulators support the conductor. Conductivity and dimensions are selected for each ampere rating, to provide maximum current carrying capacity and mechanical strength. Maximum lengths of conductor, consistent with the layout of the bus, are used to keep the number of joints to a minimum. Connectors Connectors are of a solid, laminated or braided flexible type. They can be either bolted to the conductor, or permanently welded to it. Welded connections are recommended wherever practical. Laminated Connectors Laminated connectors are used to compensate for the expansion and the contraction of the conductor, due to temperature changes. The welded type has one end of the connector welded to the conductor at the factory. The other one is welded in the field. Flexible Connectors Flexible type connectors are used for the termination of the conductor at generator and transformer terminals. Porcelain or Molded Epoxy Resin Barriers These barriers prevent interchange of air at different temperatures, leakage of hydrogen, or infiltration of dust into the bus. They are used when the bus passes through extension walls, and at the generator, or other terminations. |
