Safe Distance Between High-Voltage Busbars

11/21 Silin Wu

The design of safe distances between high-voltage busbars is critical to ensuring equipment performance and operational safety. It requires consideration of voltage levels, environmental conditions, and manufacturing processes, adherence to relevant standards, and optimization through simulation and testing. Proper spacing enhances efficiency, minimizes risks, and ensures system stability.

RHI-Offering Copper & Aluminum Busbar Connection Solutions


Key Factors Affecting Safe Distances

1. Voltage Levels

Safe distance is proportional to voltage; higher voltages require greater distances.

  • Typical values:

    • ≤1kV: 10–30mm

    • 10kV: 80–100mm

    • 35kV: 250–300mm

2. Environmental Conditions

  • Humidity and Pollution: Increase the risk of arcing, requiring greater distances.

  • Altitude: Higher altitudes lower air density and insulation performance, necessitating adjustments.

3. Electric Field Distribution

  • Avoid sharp edges to minimize localized electric field intensity; rounded or chamfered edges are recommended.

4. Busbar Structure and Installation

  • Parallel Arrangement: Requires more spacing to reduce electromagnetic interference.

  • Insulation Coating: Enables reduced distances but must meet breakdown voltage and heat resistance requirements.

Practical Considerations in Busbar Manufacturing

  1. Insulation Treatment

    • High-temperature materials (e.g., polyimide film, composite coatings) reduce spacing needs while enhancing insulation.

  2. Layout Optimization

    • Minimize unnecessary bends and crossings; use parallel arrangements or layered spacers for high-voltage systems.

  3. Grounding Design

    • Reliable grounding reduces short-circuit risks and allows for optimized spacing.

  4. Precision Manufacturing

    • High-accuracy punching and welding improve dimensional consistency, ensuring adherence to design specifications.


Recommendations for Improved Practicality

  1. Simulation Analysis

    • Use tools like ANSYS or COMSOL to optimize spacing and evaluate safety margins.

  2. Dynamic Monitoring

    • Employ sensors to monitor temperature and partial discharge during operation, addressing issues proactively.

  3. Routine Maintenance

    • Regular cleaning and inspections prevent moisture and contamination from affecting insulation performance.


By combining engineering expertise with manufacturing precision, optimal safe distances can be achieved to ensure the reliability and safety of high-voltage electrical systems.