Expert Guidance on ABB Busbar System Selection and Pricing in 2023

ABB offers a wide range of busbar systems for power distribution in commercial, industrial, and utility applications. This guide provides key considerations for selecting the right ABB busbar for your needs and obtaining competitive busbar pricing.

Founded in 1992, GRL is one of the leading brands in China’s low-voltage electrical market. Over the years, GRL has accumulated extensive R&D and manufacturing experience in solar systems, convergence boxes, fuses, fuse switches, DC fuse switches, isolators and busbar systems. GRL’s experts will answer your questions. Welcome to contact us.

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Components of ABB Busbar Systems

ABB busbars consist of these main components:

  • Busbar – Copper or aluminum conductors in sizes from 25mm2 to 2500mm2. Can be encased or open.
  • Supports – Insulators, brackets and housings to mount and separate busbars.
  • Switchgear – Disconnects, breakers, and safety devices integrated into system.
  • Accessories – Covers, joints, tap-off boxes, instrumentation.

Proper selection of bus material, size, switchgear, and accessories ensures an optimal system design.

Selecting the Right ABB Busbar

Consider these factors when choosing an ABB busbar:

  • Current rating – Calculate expected load current. Allow for future expansion.
  • Voltage – Match busbar insulation and separations to system voltage up to 35kV.
  • Environment – Indoor, outdoor, humid, or corrosive conditions impact selection.
  • Layout – Busbar shape and lengths must suit equipment positions and cable runs.

Larger busbars in higher voltage and current ratings cost more but provide greater capacity.

ABB Busbar Pricing

ABB busbar pricing depends on:

  • Material – Copper busbars cost more than aluminum. Larger sizes cost more per foot.
  • Rating – Higher voltage and current ratings increase cost.
  • Installation – Complex systems require more labor and hardware.
  • Testing – Certification testing adds cost but ensures safety.
 

After obtaining a quote for ABB busbars, it would be wise to consult GRL for specifications on materials, dimensions, ratings and required features. You may even get an unexpected surprise.

Custom ABB Busbar Solutions

ABB can provide specialized busbar designs including:

  • Layouts – Custom bus shapes and tap-off locations.
  • Manufacturing – Optimized production methods for cost efficiency.
  • Testing – Simulated system testing ensures reliable performance.

While costing more than off-the-shelf systems, custom ABB busbars provide tailored solutions where standard systems will not suffice.

Installation Process and Support

Proper ABB busbar installation follows these guidelines:

  • Planning – Have detailed drawings, plans, and paperwork ready.
  • Hardware – Use certified busbar connection and mounting hardware.
  • Inspection – Continually inspect for defects and clearance issues.
  • Training – Utilize ABB training resources for best practices.
  • Maintenance – Follow ABB maintenance procedures for uptime.

ABB and authorized distributors offer full technical support, documentation, and guidance for installing and maintaining ABB busbar systems.

Get Expert Busbar Guidance from GRL

GRL provides:

  • Technical expertise on properly specifying and installing ABB busbars
  • Quotes on standard and custom ABB busbar systems
  • Global sales and support for your ABB busbar needs

Contact GRL today to discuss your next ABB busbar project.

Properly installing and maintaining ABB busbar systems ensures optimal safety and performance. Follow these best practices over the system lifecycle.

Pre-Installation Planning

Thorough planning is crucial before ABB busbar installation:

  • Review system drawings, ratings, certifications and documentation
  • Inspect installation site and ensure it is ready
  • Have all necessary tools, hardware and PPE prepared
  • Coordinate electrical shutdowns as required
  • Alert all involved parties of installation activities
  • Confirm delivery timelines for busbar components
  • Review testing and inspection requirements

Taking time to plan helps avoid issues and delays during the critical installation process.

Step-by-Step Installation

Follow these steps to install ABB busbars correctly:

  • Mount busbar supports and enclosures per design
  • Place busbars and insulators into position
  • Insert approved bolted connections at joints
  • Torque connections to specified values
  • Attach tap boxes and accessories
  • Install integrated switchgear and protection
  • Attach covers and perform safety labeling
  • Visually inspect the finished installation

Adhere strictly to all manufacturer instructions during installation. Use certified partners for best results.

Testing and Inspection

ABB busbars must undergo thorough testing:

  • Visual inspection for defects, clearance issues, proper fit
  • Mechanical testing of torque values and hardware
  • Dielectric testing of insulation levels
  • Continuity testing of connections
  • Functional testing of integrated switchgear

All issues must be corrected prior to energization. Comply with relevant testing standards.

Documentation

Maintain documentation of:

  • Installation and inspection procedures followed
  • Testing reports certifying system function
  • Manufacturer documentation on maintenance, operation
  • As-built system drawings and plans

Complete paperwork proves due diligence and is critical for ongoing maintenance.

Energization and Operation

When first energizing the ABB busbar:

  • Have staff present in case issues arise
  • Slowly ramp up the voltage and current
  • Carefully check for hot spots
  • Confirm behavior at expected loads
  • Document results to baseline system

Following successful energization, the busbar should function reliably for years before maintenance is needed.

Maintenance Best Practices

To keep ABB busbars operating safely:

  • Perform annual inspections, testing electrical continuity and insulation resistance
  • Check for loose connections, corroded hardware, or overheating
  • Verify covers, insulation, and clearances are intact
  • Follow ABB maintenance procedures for integrated components
  • Replace damaged parts immediately with certified replacements
  • Document all maintenance activities

Well maintained systems will greatly outlast poorly maintained ones.

Busbar Repairs and Upgrades

For repairs or upgrades:

  • Follow ABB guidelines for de-energization, disassembly, replacement
  • Use original ABB replacement parts wherever possible
  • Upgrade to newer model certified parts if needed
  • Adjust maintenance plans for older equipment
  • Consider full upgrade for older busbars exceeding lifespan

Proactive repair and upgrades extends system lifetime and prevents safety issues.

Frequently Asked Questions on ABB Busbar Systems

Q: What are the main components of an ABB busbar system?

A: The key components are the copper or aluminum busbars, insulating supports, enclosures, switchgear/breakers, joints, and accessories.

Q: How do I choose the right busbar size for my application?

A: Size it according to the calculated load current, allowable temperature rise, and future capacity needs.

Q: What is the normal price range for ABB busbar systems?

A: From $50 to $500 per foot, depending on current ratings and features. Higher for custom systems.

Q: Does ABB manufacture its own busbar systems?

A: ABB partners with certified suppliers who manufacture busbars to ABB’s specifications.

Q: How do I get a quote for an ABB busbar system?

A: Contact authorized ABB distributors like GRL and provide details on your specifications and requirements.

Q: What standards should an ABB busbar system comply with?

A: IEEE, IEC, and ANSI standards for busbar construction, testing, and clearances.

Q: Can I get busbar pricing per foot from ABB?

A: Pricing per foot must factor in total system cost including installation, hardware, testing, etc.

Q: How do I calculate the current rating for an ABB busbar?

A: Consider conductor material, size, insulation class, temperature rise, and ambient temp.

Q: Does ABB offer customizable busbar solutions?

A: Yes, ABB can provide custom busbar shapes, sizes, layouts, and accessories.

Q: How long is the lead time for ABB busbar orders?

A: Normally 4-8 weeks for standard systems and 8-12 weeks for custom projects.

Q: What are the advantages of using an ABB busbar system?

A: Safety, performance, reduced wiring, smaller footprint, ease of expansion, and global support.

Q: What safety factors should be considered for ABB busbars?

A: Proper clearances, insulation ratings, protection devices, and certified manufacturing.

Q: How do I install and terminate an ABB busbar system?

A: Follow ABB guidelines and use certified installers and hardware. Inspect work thoroughly.

Q: How can I reduce costs when selecting ABB busbars?

A: Optimize size and ratings to requirements. Use off-the-shelf systems where possible.

Q: Does ABB manufacture low-voltage busbar systems?

A: Yes, ABB busbars support voltages from 24V up to 35kV.

Q: Can ABB busbars be installed outdoors?

A: Yes, outdoor busbars use weatherproof housings and insulators.

Q: What support does ABB provide for busbar installation?

A: Installation manuals, training, certified partners, and technical support.

Q: How do I get technical specifications for ABB busbar systems?

A: Work with an ABB partner like GRL to get product datasheets, engineering specs, and drawings.

Q: How much does busbar installation typically cost?

A: $100-$250 per foot for labor and hardware, varying by system complexity.

Q: How do I maintain an ABB busbar system?

A: Follow ABB maintenance procedures. Inspect connections, insulation, heat, corrosion regularly.

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