Improving the energetic efficiency of distribution busbars

We present a study on the energetic efficiency of power distribution busbars. This kind of pipe-oriented conductors is highly influenced by induced effects. Indeed, proximity and skin effects cause non-uniform current repartitions, which lead to important Joule losses, i.e. wasted energy. Using the partial electrical equivalent circuit method, which does not require a meshing of air, we are able to evaluate the impact of these effects. We then propose a method to reduce the impact of skin effect by modifying the design of the cross-section of bars. This allows an improvement of busbars efficiency which can be reported on different categories of savings, including environmental criteria, allowing busbars to join a sustainable development process.

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