Your Questions Answered: How to design electrical distribution systems in data centers

As the demand for power intensifies, the need for robust and safe electrical distribution systems in data center environments is paramount. Learn about the critical strategies and technologies essential for enhancing the safety of electrical distribution systems in the face of rising power densities in data centers.

To understand the challenges posed by the increasing concentration of electrical power in data center environments, electrical engineers must first know how to design power distribution systems. Then, learn about advancements in electrical distribution that ensure not only operational efficiency but also the highest standards of safety.

During a webcast on July 25, 2024, How to Design Electrical Distribution Systems in Data Centers, presenters from Starline helped viewers understand the advantages of monitoring power at the busway compared to a panelboard or switchboard, explore how busway systems help in future-proofing a facility’s power distribution requirements and discover how busway systems contribute toward a facility meeting its sustainability goals.

Additional questions were answered by Chris Osian, product manager, Starline, and Nick Funyak, field services program manager, Starline.

What are the typical/industry standard bus plug cord amperages and lengths available?

Answer: The standard cord amperage for data centers has been 3ph/30A, with a recent shift to 3ph/60A for artificial intelligence (AI) applications. The cord length is typically 10 feet or less but can be supplied with longer cords as needed.

How waterproof are your busway systems? What are their IP ratings?

Answer: Starline’s standard track busway is IP2X rated. However, we do have an IP54-rated track busway that allows the same flexibility as our standard track busway. We use the IP54 in electric vehicle (EV) charging type applications, food and beverage and industrial machining/assembly lines.

Does every plug-in require the remote actuator, or is it removable after use so it can be used on the next removal/installation?

Answer: Not every plug-in requires a remote actuator (RPA), and you will only need a few tools to install multiple plug-ins at any given site. Plug-ins must be ordered with the rotating paddle and receptacle feature for the remote plug-in actuator to connect to.  That said, it must be specified on order that the plug-in will be used with the RPA.

What’s the life expectancy of busway?

Answer: Busways are static systems, and we typically see them in the field 10-15-plus years old.

What are some advantages of track busway over cable bus? Can we use track busway for outdoor applications?

Answer: The main advantage of track busway over cable bus is flexibility. Track busway typically has an open channel that allows an end user to tap into the busway at any given point in just a few seconds.

Cable bus has its place in larger ampacity requirements, but it is less flexible when it comes to tapping into the run. Legrand carries both a cable bus and track busway for both situations. As for outdoor applications, we offer an IP54-rated busway that will usually hang under a type of structure or cover, along with a larger ampacity option in a busduct style, which is rated IP65.

Are there any specific tests that must be performed to the track busway other than contact resistance and insulation resistance?

Answer: In addition to a contact resistance and insulation test, it is very common for data centers and lab-type applications to load test the track busway with a resistive load bank. The test lasts for about two hours and provides final assurance that the track busway is properly installed and ready for service. In conjunction with the load test, thermal scans of all busway joints would find potential fail points.

Are there any common misconceptions/mis-concerns you repeatedly encounter regarding installing Starline in data centers?

Answer: One misconception we come across is that busways cannot be installed due to sprinkler systems nearby. In a data center, if a sprinkler system is discharged, the busway would need to be replaced, no different than the server racks and other electronics in the room. We do offer an IP54-rated busway but have not net needed it within the data center.

Is the busway selectively sectionalized? In the case of a fault in the bus itself, can it be remotely partially isolated, as well?

Answer: Busways are installed in sections (i.e. 5 feet, 10 feet, etc.).  If a fault occurs on a particular section, it can be removed/replaced with the bus in a de-energized state.

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