A low-frequency FDFD scheme based on the quasi-TEM approximation applied to non-segregated phase bus structures

The simulation of 60 Hz current distributions on non-segregated phase bus structures requires that both the skin effect and the proximity effect be modeled accurately, given the large currents flowing on the three-phase bus bars in close proximity, which are normally configured in a side-by-side configuration. The phase bus conductors are assumed to be air insulated and a conducting enclosure is assumed for the non-segregated phase bus system. The simultaneous impacts of skin effect and proximity effect on the bus bar current distributions preclude the use of simple skin effect approximations when analyzing the bus performance relative to conductor heating in an attempt to eliminate hot spots.