Connecting bus for machines: do-it-yourself connection

Design features

To begin with, consider the design of the comb. The product consists of a copper plate enclosed in flame retardant plastic insulation. Special supplies depart from this plate, thanks to which there is connection of machines in the dashboard. The number of plates corresponds to the number of poles.

Please note that there are combs with a pitch of 18 and 27 mm. The first ones are intended for switching AB, with a width equal to one module. Accordingly, 27 mm is a width of 1.5 modules. Pay attention to this point when choosing a distribution bus for your own conditions!

By the number of poles, the connecting busbars are divided into single-pole, two-pole, three-pole and four-pole. Each version has its own purpose. For example, a single-pole comb is used to connect a single-phase circuit breaker, and a four-pole one, respectively, for mounting a three-phase RCD with 4 poles (three phases and zero).

The number of taps can be from 12 to 60, so the use of combs to connect two electrical machines is not a rational solution. It is advisable to use a distribution bus when assembling large panels.

The taps themselves can be pin (pin marking) or fork (fork). The former are used much more often, because fork taps are not suitable for all machines; they require a special clamp.

The last design feature that I would like to talk about is the cross-section of the bends. As a rule, the taps are made with a cross section of 16 mm square, which is quite enough to withstand a current load of 63 A.

Advantages and disadvantages

First, let's talk about the advantages of the connection bus for circuit breakers. So, the comb has the following advantages when installation of electrical wiring:

1. Better connection of switching equipment. If the connection of the jumpers is represented by two ends of the wire in one clamp, then the use of a comb bus reduces this value by 2 times, which is positively reflected in the quality of the contact.
2. As we have already said, the connecting comb for milking machines is capable of withstanding up to 63 A. Make a loop from a wire with a cross section of 16 mm sq. will be much more difficult.
3. The wiring in the switchboard using the distribution bus looks more accurate, as can be seen in the photo below:

As for the disadvantages, they are as follows:

1. It is not always possible to connect machines from different manufacturers. The fact is that different companies can produce modular switching products of different heights. As a result, the tap does not always reach the smaller AV connector.
2. More problematic replacement of circuit breakers in the panel. To replace one device, you will have to loosen the connecting bus on all connectors, otherwise it will not be possible to raise it higher, and without this the machine cannot be reached.
3. If it becomes necessary to add another AB to the shield, you will either have to change the comb completely, or connect it with a jumper, which will negatively affect the aesthetic appearance of the switchboard. In addition, when replacing, you will have to turn off the voltage on all supply lines, which is sometimes very undesirable, especially in production.

By the way, the comb's connecting bus can be used to connect not only circuit breakers, but also RCDs, as well as difavtomats. We will tell you how to connect this connector in the dashboard below.

Installation and connection rules

First you need to measure the desired length of the comb (if there is any remainder) and cut off the piece that you need. It is best to cut a tire for automatic machines with a hacksaw. We recommend that you cut off the dielectric plastic case itself with a margin of 1-2 cm, which will protect live parts and prevent short circuit. It is also necessary to put plugs around the edges or insulate the ends with ordinary electrical tape.

After the suitable length has been cut off, proceed to connecting the circuit breakers with a comb. Everything is simple here, the bus must be placed at the top, the pins must be inserted into the corresponding connectors and the screws must be tightened. In one of the terminals, the last one, you need to connect the input power wire.

The connection process is discussed in detail using a video example:

If you use a connecting comb with plug taps, some vending machine manufacturers (Hager, ABB) there is a separate connector (located at the bottom), to which you need to install. This moment is clearly demonstrated in the video:

As you can see, there is nothing complicated in installing and connecting a single-row connecting bus, at least for the example of connecting single-pole AB. As for RCDs, difavtomats and two-pole switches, their connection will look a little different.

In this case, a two-pole comb must be used. The phase and zero taps of such buses are located through one, so you need in accordance with make the connection with the marking (each tap into its own connector), then securely tighten the screw clamps.

That's all we wanted to tell you about connecting the connecting bus for machines. Even an inexperienced electrician can do the installation with his own hands. The main thing is to take into account the recommendations provided!

We also recommend reading:

• Connecting the circuit breaker in the panel
• Assembly instructions for a three-phase switchboard
• Errors in the installation of electrical wiring