How Powerbar Solutions Improve Power Distribution in Data Centers
According to Uptime Institute’s Annual Outage Analysis in 2023, more than two-thirds of unplanned downtime incidents due to power issues cost data centers over $100,000. This makes reliable power distribution in high-tech facilities an absolute must. Busways play a crucial role in meeting these facilities’ needs without compromising operation time by ensuring power is transmitted everywhere. More specifically, Vertiv’s Powerbar solutions for busways help enhance flexibility, scalability, and safety while also optimizing power distribution. Continue reading to learn how Powerbar systems integrate seamlessly with busways and switchgear, offering a streamlined solution for modern data centers.
Understanding Powerbar Solutions
Vertiv’s Powerbar solutions are modular power distribution units that direct electricity throughout high-tech facilities. Unlike traditional wiring which can create tangled and obstructive setups, Powerbar systems use a streamlined approach. They employ busways which replace cables with specialized conduits that move electricity more efficiently. This creates a structured and organized path for electricity to flow from main supply lines to equipment like IT racks or cooling units.
There are many components that go into making Powerbar solutions effective. Tap-off boxes for example can be positioned along the length of products like the Vertiv™ Powerbar iMPB, creating the ability for power to reach different devices. These tap-off boxes can also easily be installed or repositioned to adapt to a facility’s changing power requirements.
Integration with Busways and Switchgear
One of the most important features of Powerbar systems is their seamless ability to work with other essential equipment like busways and switchgear. For example, Powerbar solutions get rid of extensive cabling required by traditional busways. This is accomplished by using electrical busway technology which employs a modular, open-faced design to improve power distribution across racks. As a result, there is less cable congestion and better airflow, minimizing the risk of overheating equipment.
Switchgear is also an essential part of any power distribution system, as it protects equipment from fault currents and other electrical issues like overloads or short circuiting. Systems like the Vertiv™ High Powerbar help distribute power between switchgear panels and between transformers and switchgear systems in a safe and direct way. This streamlined approach to data center infrastructure reduces the risk of power faults and simplifies troubleshooting if something does go wrong so you can get your facility running again in no time.
The Benefits of Powerbar Solutions
Implementing Powerbar solutions in data centers brings numerous advantages, especially when compared to traditional power distribution setups. The right system can make any high-tech facility more efficient and safer, as well as support present needs and future growth.
Scalability and Flexibility
Data centers are growing at an incredible rate to keep up with advancing technology. As a result, their equipment and layouts need to change to meet their new power requirements. With traditional power distribution this meant long hours of rewiring where power would need to be turned off. However, Powerbar solutions are designed to allow for new connections to be added quickly to avoid downtime.
The modularity of Powerbar solutions not only makes scaling easier but also allows facilities to adapt to specific needs in real time. For example, as more servers are added, the busway system can support increased power loads simply by adjusting the tap-off units along the Powerbar. This enables data centers to be more adaptable and easier to manage.
Increased Efficiency
Traditional wiring systems require a large number of cables to be grouped together. This is meant to clear up space but often times these bunches of cables can block airflow. Since data centers need to be kept at precise temperatures, this wiring practice can cause necessary cooling systems to go into overtime while doing little to fix the problem. Powerbar solutions and busways maintain clear pathways for airflow by distributing power overhead or even underfloor, so cooling systems don’t have to work as hard. Additionally, these Powerbar solutions help minimize energy loss by ensuring power reaches other equipment with minimal drop-off. This helps cut down on operational costs while also supporting sustainability initiatives by not wasting power.
Safety and Reliability
Safety is a top priority in data centers since even the smallest electrical fault can lead to significant downtime. Vertiv’s Powerbar systems are built with multiple safety features, ensuring that data centers can maintain operations securely. For example, Powerbar solutions include aluminum casings to protect your team and equipment from the electricity running through the encased busway. Additionally, the Vertiv™ Powerbar iMPB has hot-swappable tap-off boxes with mechanical interlocks that allow for maintenance without interrupting power distribution. Even if your power distribution system encounters a problem, you can safely investigate and solve the issue.
Find Your Perfect Powerbar Solution with Weber & Associates
Power distribution is a vital part of keeping your high-tech facility running as efficiently as possible. Vertiv’s Powerbar solutions play an important role in making sure every part of your system has the energy it needs to operate. And by integrating with busways and switchgear, these Powerbar solutions help maximize efficiency and ensure safety in your data center. Every facility is different, which is why we offer various Powerbar solutions to fix your needs. Contact us today to learn more about how to optimize power distribution and Powerbar solutions in your facility.