BD
Feeder busway
A busway run used purely to carry power between two points, drawn as a distinct trunking line without tap-off points.
SLD / GA
Symbols · BD
Plug-in busway
Busway with tap-off outlets along its length, drawn with outlet marks where plug-in units can be connected.
In plain English
What does Plug-in busway mean?
Plug-in busway distributes power along its route through outlets into which tap-off units can be inserted. It is common in rising mains in multi-storey buildings, factory floors and data halls, where loads change and new feeders are added without rewiring.
A simple example
The symbol shows that outlets exist but not which are used. Tap-off units actually fitted are drawn separately with their protective devices. Readers should not assume every outlet mark represents a connected load, and voltage drop calculations should use the actual tap-off positions.
What the drawings help you do
Distinguish outlet positions from fitted tap-off units. Check voltage drop to the most remote tap-off. Plug-in busway has outlets for tap-off units; feeder busway carries power point to point only.
This particular reference
Busway with tap-off outlets along its length, drawn with outlet marks where plug-in units can be connected. Plug-in busway has outlets for tap-off units; feeder busway carries power point to point only.
- Rating
- A value stating the conditions for which equipment is specified.
- Schematic
- A drawing showing function and connections rather than physical appearance.
Read the source: Canalis busbar trunking systems · Electrical installation design methodology and references
SLD / GA · BD
What it represents
Plug-in busway distributes power along its route through outlets into which tap-off units can be inserted. It is common in rising mains in multi-storey buildings, factory floors and data halls, where loads change and new feeders are added without rewiring.
The symbol shows that outlets exist but not which are used. Tap-off units actually fitted are drawn separately with their protective devices. Readers should not assume every outlet mark represents a connected load, and voltage drop calculations should use the actual tap-off positions.
How to read it
- Distinguish outlet positions from fitted tap-off units.
- Check voltage drop to the most remote tap-off.
Information to show or reference
- Mark outlet positions on the layout.
- Draw fitted tap-off units separately.
- State rating and conductor configuration.
A distinction that matters
Plug-in busway has outlets for tap-off units; feeder busway carries power point to point only.
Sources you can follow
These public references support the explanation and provide further detail. Their graphics and downloadable files remain with their publishers.
Canalis busbar trunking systems
Manufacturer busbar trunking ranges with tap-off outlets.
Electrical installation design methodology and references
Installation design methodology including busway distribution.
About this graphic
This illustration was authored independently by Elora Grid to explain the concept. It is not reproduced from a customer drawing, an official standard graphic or a manufacturer CAD file. Its correspondence to an exact IEC or IEEE symbol identifier has not been certified.
SVG and DXF downloads contain this original artwork. DXF uses unscaled drawing units; a GA envelope supplies no product dimensions, clearances or fabrication information. Original artwork is available under CC BY 4.0. Third-party references retain their own terms.
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