Powell Electrical Systems, Inc. Guide Specification: Low and Medium Voltage Metal-Enclosed Cable Bus
Powell Electrical Systems, Inc. Guide Specification: Low and Medium Voltage Metal-Enclosed Cable Bus
Powell Electrical Systems, Inc. Guide Specification: Low and Medium Voltage Metal-Enclosed Cable Bus
Guide Specification
Low and Medium Voltage Metal-Enclosed Cable Bus
1.0 General
1.1 This specification describes the electrical and mechanical requirements for metal-enclosed, non-
segregated phase cable bus duct from 600V through 38kV applications. The cable bus system
described is to be suitable for indoor or outdoor installations with nominal current ratings operating
in ambient temperatures to 40°C.
1.2 This specification covers only the general requirements of the cable bus duct assemblies. The
specific requirements of each assembly (plan, arrangement, components, etc.) will be shown on
drawings provided by the Purchaser. These drawings will form the basis for developing the
drawings to manufacture and install.
2.0 Standards and Codes
2.1 The assemblies shall be constructed, wired, and tested in accordance with all applicable sections
of the latest listed standards and codes.
2.1.1 American National Standards Institute (ANSI IEEE-C37.23-1987)
2.1.2 National Electric Code (NEC) (NFPA No. 70)
2.1.3 National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA)
2.1.4 IEEE-IPCEA Power Cable Ampacities
2.2 It shall be the manufacturer's responsibility to be knowledgeable of the requirements of the above
Standards and Codes. Where standards or codes conflict, ANSI IEEE-C37.23-1987 shall be the
governing document.
2.3 Site Conditions
2.3.1 Ambient air temperature limits (-30°C To +40°C)
2.3.2 Altitude above sea level ______ feet.
2.3.3 Maximum wind velocity ______ miles per hour.
2.3.4 Ice load ______ pounds per square foot.
2.3.5 Snow load ______ pounds per square foot.
2.3.6 Seismic zone ______.
3.0 Basic Construction
3.1 The cable bus system shall be non-segregated phase type with adequate cable spacing as outlined
in the latest edition of IEEE S-135/IPCEA P-46-426.
3.2 Outdoor installations shall be ventilated with louvered top and bottom covers.
3.3 Indoor installations shall be ventilated with louvered top and bottom covers.
4.0 Ratings (Current ratings based on 40°C ambient)
4.1 Maximum voltage ______ V/kV rms
4.2 Basic impulse insulation level ______ kV
4.3 Rated frequency withstand ______ kV (1 min. dry) 60Hz
4.4 Rated continuous current ______ Amperes
4.5 Momentary withstand current ______ kA Asymmetrical 167mS
4.6 Temperature rise of splice joints shall not exceed cable temperature, and in no case shall the splice
joint temperature rise exceed 50°C.
9.4 Removable covers shall be provided throughout the bus duct run, both top and bottom, for ease in
laying the cable and having access to bus joints and supports, without the need for disassembling
the bus duct. Welded covers are unacceptable.
9.5 Ventilated Indoor and Outdoor Construction
9.5.1 Top and bottom covers shall be ventilated.
9.5.2 Vent openings shall prohibit entrance of a 1/4" diameter rod.
9.5.3 Assembly hardware shall be stainless steel.
9.6 Enclosure joints shall provide adjustment to accommodate site variances and linear expansion of
up to 1/4 inch per splice.
9.7 Expansion Joints will be furnished for every straight run exceeding 80 feet, and at building
entrances when specified.
9.8 Enclosures are to be shipped in the longest practical lengths (up to 18 feet straight) to minimize
field assembly labor.
10.0 Wall or Floor Entrances
10.1 Duct will include an internal vapor/fire barrier with one-half hour fire rating, at all wall, roof, and floor
penetrations when required. Optional fire ratings up to 4 hours shall be supplied as required.
11.0 Testing
11.1 Each cable and its termination shall be given a high voltage DC hi-pot field acceptance test, at 75%
of the factory voltage, following practices outlined by the cable manufacturer.
11.2 Manufacturer may be requested to submit any ANSI-37.23-1987 design tests listed below.
11.2.1 Temperature Rise
11.2.2 Insulation Withstand
11.2.3 Impulse
11.2.4 Power Frequency Withstand
11.2.5 Momentary
11.2.6 Insulation Flame Retardance
11.3 In lieu of actual testing, the manufacturer may submit design tests performed on similar ratings
along with technical data to substantiate the adequacy of the equipment being furnished.
12.0 Drawing Requirements
12.1 Dimensioned drawings with plan and elevation views, and other views as necessary for clarity.
12.2 Cross-sectional drawings with views of cable interleaving, support block locations, and housing
arrangement.
12.3 Housing, seal assembly, and other assembly drawings.
12.4 Bus termination drawings showing details to connecting equipment (transformers, switchgear, etc.).
13.0 Installation and Operating Instructions
13.1 Installation and operating instructions shall cover all of the equipment furnished.
For assistance regarding these specifications or with support questions, please contact Powell directly:
Powell Electrical Systems, Inc. 708.409.1200
Delta/Unibus Division 708.409.1211 fax
515 Railroad Avenue
Email: [email protected]
Northlake, IL 60164
Website: powellind.com