In busbar systems, thermal expansion and building movements can cause various problems, from joint points to fire barriers, if not properly managed. Learn how dilatation and expansion modules absorb these movements.
In busbar systems, thermal expansion and building movements can lead to numerous problems — from joint points to fire barriers — if not properly managed. Learn how dilatation and expansion modules absorb these movements.
Busbar systems are long and rigid metal systems. As the conductors carry current, they heat up, and expansion occurs with increasing temperature. This is known as thermal expansion. However, busbar systems are not only subject to thermal expansion; structural movements in the building can also create mechanical stresses on the busbar.
So what happens if these movements are not properly managed?
Excessive mechanical stress at joint points
Changes in conductor contact pressure
Buckling or deformation of the busbar housing
Overloading at support points
Cracking in fire barrier materials sealing shaft openings
Transfer of mechanical forces to panel or transformer connections
To prevent all of these issues, dilatation and expansion modules are used. This ensures that the system is protected from unwanted forces.
Expansion modules in vertical and horizontal lines
Busbar lines are installed in buildings as both vertical and horizontal runs.
In vertical busbar lines, expansion modules are designed to absorb expansion and contraction movements. This allows the total movement of the busbar line to be divided into smaller, manageable sections.
In horizontal applications, expansion movements in long busbar lines are absorbed by expansion modules installed at specific intervals.
What happens at building expansion joint crossings?
If a horizontal line passes through a building expansion joint, a different solution is required. A building expansion joint is a gap between structural blocks that allows independent movement — and these movements occur in multiple directions, both horizontal and vertical.
Therefore, at building expansion joint crossings, dilatation modules are used instead of standard expansion modules. These modules are designed to absorb multi-directional movements at building transitions.
In conclusion, expansion modules mainly compensate for thermal expansion, while dilatation modules absorb multi-directional building movements. This protects joint points, the busbar housing, support systems, fire barriers, and panel or transformer connections — ensuring that the mechanical strength and electrical continuity of the busbar system remain intact.
You can watch our “What are Dilatation and Expansion Modules? | Learn with EAE” video below.