For long spans of bus work needed between insulator supports in a substation, what is the bus of choice?

The choice of a hollow tube for long spans of bus work between insulator supports in a substation is justified due to its superior structural properties. Hollow tube bus work is typically lighter than alternative materials, reducing the load on the insulator supports while maintaining a high strength-to-weight ratio. This aspect is particularly crucial over long spans, where unsupported weight can lead to sagging and potential structural issues.

Additionally, the hollow design enhances the electrical conductivity along with providing a larger surface area and allowing for efficient cooling when carrying high current loads. This helps maintain optimal performance and minimizes energy losses. The hollow tube’s geometry also promotes better aerodynamic characteristics, which is advantageous in outdoor settings where wind loads need to be considered.

In contrast, other bus materials, while viable, may not offer the same combination of lightness, strength, and cooling efficiency, making hollow tube the preferred choice for such applications.