Is it better to use bus duct or pipe and wire in a high-rise building?

Answer 1

If you are referring to the incoming utility service, that would be mandated by the Authority having Jurisdiction {City, County, utility co., etc....}. Here it is required for services 1200amps and above. If your running the power distribution through out the building and the choice has not been made by the engineers leaving it up to the contractor, then cost is the objective. Bus duct is preferred when using continuous high loads where heat is a factor. Bus duct relies on open venting and air circulation to maintain it's integrity. In that if your load is 300amp factoring the 80% rule you can run 400amp bus duct without needing to enlarge for heat. In conduit the wire size is enlarged to augment the heat build up inside the pipe. Depending on the distance of the run and the amount of conductors will determine how much heat can build up as well as the amount of open room inside the pipe for air to maintain temperatures. To answer in general bus duct is the preferred method, but in most circumstances not always the economical decision due to the amount of labor to install and the cost of the Bus Duct Assembly {Inc. parts and hardware}. Also if bus duct is used clearances must be factored into the engineering of the building structure for air circulation, safety to person and property, and accessibility for maintenance or troubles. It is a hard sell if the bus duct is not specified by the authority having jurisdiction.

Answer 2

Bus duct is generally preferred in high-rise buildings for its higher current-carrying capacity, lower voltage drop, and easier installation compared to traditional pipe and wire systems. Additionally, bus duct takes up less space, making it a more efficient choice for high-rise buildings with limited space for electrical distribution systems.