Electro-Mechanical Synergy in the Design of Hybrid Busbar Distribution Systems

Abstract

This paper focuses on electric energy distribution and utilizes injection lap riveting to assemble two different configurations of copper-aluminum (hybrid) busbar distribution systems with geometric variations. A combined experimental-numerical methodology is employed to investigate the influence of the different configurations and geometries on current crowding and electrical resistance of the joints. The study reveals that prioritizing the reduction of manufacturing costs through the use of simple and easier-to-fabricate geometries results in poorer electrical performance and increased operational costs of the energy distribution systems in service. The work represents a key step towards achieving electro-mechanical synergy in the design of hybrid busbar distribution systems.