Busway Short Circuit Testing Procedures

Every electrical system component must have recognizable predictable characteristics in order to be usable in today´s modern electrical distribution system. The use of busways for power distribution in commercial and industrial buildings has become very popular in recent years due, in part, to the fact that it offers the requisite proven predictable electrical and mechanical characteristics. This allows the distribution system designer to use busway with confidence that it will perform as he intends. Of the many electrical and mechanical characteristics which must be evaluated, the busway short circuit rating has become one of the most important. This increased importance is the result of larger electrical services and lower loss supply equipment creating significant increases in available short circuit current levels. In addition, the present cost of equipment failure is at an all-time high. It is certainly better to spend a little extra (whether time or money) in the design and construction stages to provide maximum system performance under all conditions including possible short circuits.