# Plug-in busway

Canonical URL: https://eloragrid.ai/symbols/plug-in-busway
Publisher: Elora Grid
Updated: 2026-10-28
Lookup label: BD
Drawing use: SLD, GA
Reference families: IEC, IEEE / ANSI, Manufacturer

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.

### Terms

- Rating: A value stating the conditions for which equipment is specified.
- Schematic: A drawing showing function and connections rather than physical appearance.

Concept diagram: Identify the device and form → Read the connections and state → Check the equipment reference
A guide to reading this reference. The original symbol illustration and its drawing notes appear below; these boxes are not a wiring diagram.

- [Canalis busbar trunking systems](https://www.se.com/ww/en/work/products/master-ranges/line-series/)
- [Electrical installation design methodology and references](https://www.electrical-installation.org/enwiki/General_rules_of_electrical_installation_design)


## 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.

## Important distinction

Plug-in busway has outlets for tap-off units; feeder busway carries power point to point only.

## Facts

- Graphic cue: Busway line with outlet marks along it
- Typical use: Rising mains and flexible factory distribution
- Preview: Original educational illustration; consult the publisher and applicable standard for the exact graphic

## Public references

- [Canalis busbar trunking systems](https://www.se.com/ww/en/work/products/master-ranges/line-series/) — Schneider Electric. Manufacturer busbar trunking ranges with tap-off outlets.
- [Electrical installation design methodology and references](https://www.electrical-installation.org/enwiki/General_rules_of_electrical_installation_design) — Schneider Electric — Electrical Installation Guide. Installation design methodology including busway distribution.

## Graphic scope

Independent original educational concept illustration by Elora Grid. Not a certified standards graphic or manufacturer footprint. Unitless; not to scale. Original artwork licence: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/. Publisher material is linked only.