What Is Feeder Busway?

A practical introduction to feeder busway applications, structure, technical considerations and project selection.

What Is Feeder Busway?

A feeder busway is a type of busbar trunking system designed mainly for transmitting electrical power between major distribution points. Unlike plug-in busway, which provides multiple branch connection points, feeder busway is primarily used as a main power transmission path.

Typical feeder busway applications include transformer to LV switchgear, LV switchgear to main distribution equipment, main electrical room to production area, long horizontal routes and high-current industrial power transmission.

A typical arrangement can be:

Transformer → Starting / Flexible Connection → Feeder Busway → LV Switchgear

or:

LV Switchgear → Feeder Busway → Major Electrical Load.

Feeder busway may include straight sections, connectors, elbows, starting sections, expansion sections, supports and other components depending on the project route. For long-distance transmission, engineers should review rated current, short-circuit performance, resistance, reactance, impedance and voltage drop—not only current rating.

It is commonly considered for industrial facilities, commercial buildings and data centers, especially where organized high-current power transmission is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is feeder busway used for?
It is mainly used for transmitting power between major electrical distribution points.

2. Is feeder busway the same as plug-in busway?
No. Feeder busway focuses on main power transmission, while plug-in busway provides branch connection points.

3. Can feeder busway connect directly to a transformer?
Yes. A properly engineered starting or flexible connection can be used.

4. Can feeder busway connect to LV switchgear?
Yes. Transformer-to-switchgear and switchgear-to-main-distribution connections are common applications.

5. What should be checked for a long feeder route?
Rated current, voltage drop, short-circuit performance, route length, conductor material and installation conditions should all be reviewed.

Related Busway Knowledge

What Is a Busway System? →
What Is Compact Busway? →
What Is Plug-in Busway? →
Busway vs Cable →
How to Calculate Busway Voltage Drop →

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