Why is wire and bus bar ampacity different?

[kenamm]

I saw a mechanical design suggestion that when dimensioning copper bus bars then should be considered 2 amps for mm2. But when using wires you can use even a 1 mm2 wire for much higher current. Is the suggestion for bus bars not correct or can someone explain why is there different ampacity for wire and bus bar that have equal area?

[Genghiz · Accepted solution]

Hello Ken,

In a low voltage electrical installation, the busbars are more preferred than the cable due to the following reasons.

• They are easier to install.
• The tap-off at the busbar is convenient than the cables.
• The load distribution is easier.

There is a detailed explanation is here.

Regards,

Team - Ecodial Expert Support