Posts Tagged ‘Copper busbar PCB’

Busbar Copper vs Aluminium in PCB: Which Transfers Heat Better?

Friday, August 29th, 2025

Busbar copper vs aluminium, do you know their differences? Both copper busbar and aluminium busbar are very crucial in various high thermal dissipation and high power applications, such as energy storage and inverter systems, and telecommunication power modules. But do you know which delivers heat more excellently? In this Blog, we will write some especially significant points, from features, price, applications, to customer cases, to give you a full knowledge about the busbar copper vs aluminium.

Have you struggled with the following awful issues?

Complex thermal management and thermal expansion problem?
Severe conductivity and cost problems?
tough connection and reliability problems?
Long-term lifespan and maintenance Issues?

What follows are some ideal solutions to solve such problems.

Select material according to the applications, such as using busbar copper in the high power, high reliability applications, and using aluminium in high current but cost sensitive applications.
Enhance design and process, for example, by applying sophisticated connection technique, such as soldering, surface treatment, to boost connection reliability. Besides, employ the copper-plated layer or compount meterial to increase conductivity and thermal stability.
Select a highly cost-effective material combination to control cost, and upgrade material efficiency and performance via Perfecting design and process

Busbar copper vs aluminium is a crucial choice in PCB design. If you want to inquire about any types of PCBs, just feel free to make contact with us via sales@bestpcbs.com. Best Technology is one of the leading PCB and PCBA manufacturers in Shenzhen. We are the source factory, which is fully compatible with ISO 9001, ISO 13485, IATF 16949, AS9100D, UL, REACH, and RoHS.

Busbar Copper vs Aluminium in PCB: Which Transfers Heat Better?

Busbar Copper vs Aluminium: What Are Their Features?

To put it simply, both have unique advantages based on PCB applications. Copper ensures stability in high-power systems, while aluminium reduces weight in large structures.

Copper busbars offer excellent electrical and thermal performance. They efficiently handle high current while maintaining low resistance.

Aluminium busbars are lighter, more cost-effective, and easier to shape.

Busbar Copper vs Aluminium Price

Copper is generally more expensive than aluminium due to material cost and manufacturing complexity. A standard copper busbar can cost 20–30% more than an aluminium one. However, investing in copper can reduce energy loss and improve long-term efficiency, balancing the initial cost.

If you would like to know more specific information about the copper busbar price or aluminium PCB price, just feel free to contact us directly at sales@bestpcbs.com.

Busbar Copper vs Aluminium Weight

Weight is a key factor in PCB design, especially in automotive and aerospace applications. Aluminium busbars are about 60% lighter than copper. This helps reduce assembly and transport costs. Copper’s higher weight is acceptable when strength and conductivity are critical.

Busbar Copper vs Aluminium in PCB: Which Transfers Heat Better?

It is vital to know that copper excels in heat transfer, roughly twice as conductive as aluminium. This allows PCB designers to manage hotspots efficiently and improve system longevity. However, aluminium is still effective for weight-sensitive applications but may require additional thermal management.

Can You Bend a Copper Busbar?

Copper busbars can be bent carefully, but excessive bending may cause micro-cracks affecting conductivity. Aluminium busbars are more flexible and easier to bend, suitable for complex PCB layouts. Designers must balance bendability with electrical performance.

What Electrical Grade Aluminum Bus Bar is Used Most?

The common electrical-grade aluminium for PCBs is 1350-H19, chosen for its conductivity, strength, and corrosion resistance. It works well in high-current applications where copper might be too heavy or costly.

What Lasts Longer, Copper Busbar vs Aluminium Busbar?

Copper busbars generally last longer under high load due to superior mechanical and thermal properties. Aluminium may oxidize faster but performs well if treated or coated. Copper is preferred for long-term reliability in demanding PCB applications.

Busbar Copper vs Aluminium: What Are Their Applications in PCB?

Here is the table showing the applications of copper busbar and aluminium busbar for your review.

Copper Busbar Applications	Aluminium Busbar Applications
High-Power Distribution Boards	Weight-Sensitive PCBs
Electric Vehicle (EV) Battery Modules	Cost-Effective Power Distribution
Inverters and Energy Storage Systems	Flexible or Complex Layouts
Telecommunication Power Modules	Battery Modules in EVs
Hybrid PCB Designs	Industrial Equipment with Moderate Current

All in all, copper and aluminium busbars are used based on conductivity, weight optimization, and cost-effectiveness.

Busbar Copper vs Aluminium in PCB: Customer Cases

Copper busbar offers high electrical and thermal conductivity, giving it a competitive edge over aluminum busbar. It is suitable for high-power applications, such as high-end servers and communication bases. The copper core PCB has a thermal conductivity coefficient of 400 W/mK, while the aluminum PCB has a coefficient of 205 W/mK.

Most customers choose aluminum busbar PCB for cost-sensitive, high thermal dissipation situations, such as LED lighting and automobile electronics. Pictures of busbar copper PCB and aluminium busbar PCB are provided for your review.

Busbar Copper vs Aluminium in PCB: Customer Cases

In closing, knowing the features, weight difference, price, durability, application, and customer cases of copper and aluminum busbars will help you make an informed decision for your PCB project requirements. Best Technology commits ourselves to providing high quality, superior reliability copper busbar and aluminium busbar PCB to a more competitive market since 2006. If you have any technical problem in this area, just feel free to get in touch with us at sales@bestpcbs.com. We will be excited to work with you for the brilliant PCB and PCBA solution for your projects.

Tags:Aluminium Busbar PCB, Busbar Copper vs Aluminium, Copper busbar PCB
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How to Calculate Copper Busbar Ampacity?

Friday, August 29th, 2025

How to calculate copper busbar ampacity? This guide covers calculation methods, sizing charts (including 12x4mm), and comparisons with aluminum, providing datasheet for electrical system design.

Are you troubled with these questions?

High electricity bills?
Overheating issues?
Slow custom orders?

Best Technology can provide you service and solution:

Save energy – 15% lower resistance, higher efficiency.
Cooler operation – 20% better heat dissipation, longer lifespan.
Faster delivery – 72-hour custom production, no delays.

Welcome to contact us if you have any request for copper busbar: sales@bestpcbs.com.

What Is Copper Busbar Ampacity?

Copper Busbar Ampacity refers to the maximum continuous current a copper busbar can safely carry under specific environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, heat dissipation, insulation level). It is determined by factors like cross-sectional area, copper purity, surface treatment, and installation methods (such as dense packing or ventilation).

How to Calculate Copper Busbar Ampacity?

Methods about how to calculate copper busbar ampacity:

1. Cross-Sectional Area Estimation (Single Busbar)

Formula: I=W×K
W: Busbar width (mm)
K: Thickness factor (e.g., 18 for 10mm thickness)

2. Multi-Layer Busbar Correction

Double-Layer: I_double=I_single×1.58
Triple-Layer: I_triple=I_single×2

3. Temperature Correction

Lower Temperature (e.g., 25℃): I_corrected=I₄₀×1.18
Higher Temperature (e.g., >40℃):I_corrected=I₄₀×0.9

4. Simplified Formula

Formula: I=W×(T+8.5)
W: Busbar width (mm)
T: Busbar thickness (mm)

5. Environmental & Installation Adjustments

Parallel Busbars (AC):

2 bars: I×0.8
3 bars: I×0.7
4 bars: I×0.6

6. Copper vs. Aluminum Conversion

Formula: I_copper=I_aluminum×1.3

7. Practical Recommendations

Refer to Tables: Use standards like Industrial and Civil Power Distribution Design Manual for precision.
Safety Margin: Design with 10–20% reserve capacity.
Temperature Monitoring: Ensure long-term temperature rise ≤70K (Class F insulation) to prevent aging.

What is the Ampacity of a 12 x 4 Copper Busbar?

For a 12×4mm copper busbar (40℃ ambient, ΔT≤50K):‌

Vertical mounting‌: ‌~320A‌ (bare copper).
Horizontal mounting‌: ‌~280A‌ (12% reduced heat dissipation).

Key adjustments‌:

Tin-plated surface: ‌+8%‌ (→345A vertical).
60℃ ambient: ‌Derate 30%‌ (→~224A).

What is the Ampacity of a 12 x 4 Copper Busbar?

Copper Busbar Ampacity Table in MM

Busbar Size (Width × Thickness, mm)‌	‌Ampacity(Vertical, A)‌	Ampacity (Horizontal, A)‌	Horizontal Reduction Factor‌
15 × 3	165	145	0.88
20 × 5	290	255	0.88
30 × 4	400	360	0.90
40 × 5	540	485	0.90
50 × 6	740	665	0.90
60 × 6	900	800	0.89
80 × 8	1,400	1,260	0.90
100 × 10	2,300	2,050	0.89
120 × 12	2,900	2,600	0.90

Copper Busbar DC Ampacity Chart

Copper Busbar Dimensions (Width × Thickness, mm)	Single-Layer Ampacity (A)	Double-Layer Ampacity (A)	Triple-Layer Ampacity (A)
40 × 4	480	750	960
60 × 6	840	1,344	1,722
80 × 8	1,280	2,000	2,560
100 × 10	1,810	2,824	3,620

Copper vs Aluminum Busbar Ampacity

Conductivity & Ampacity

Copper Busbar: Higher conductivity (58 MS/m). Ampacity ~1.43× aluminum for same dimensions. Supports 2-4A/mm².
Aluminum Busbar: Lower conductivity (35-37.7 MS/m). Requires ~30% larger cross-section to match copper’s ampacity. Supports 3-5A/mm².

Physical Properties

Parameter	Copper	Aluminum
Density	8.9g/cm³ (3.3× aluminum)	2.7g/cm³
Thermal Expansion	16.5ppm/°C	23.1ppm/°C
Melting Point	1,085°C	660°C

Mechanical Performance

Copper Busbar: Higher strength, resistant to deformation/creep. Ideal for high-stress environments.
Aluminum Busbar: Softer, prone to creep. Requires surface treatment (e.g., tin plating) to reduce contact resistance.

Cost & Weight

Copper Busbar: 2-3× higher cost per ampacity unit. Heavier (3.3× aluminum).
Aluminum Busbar: ~40% cheaper. Lightweight (1/3 of copper’s weight).

Environmental Adaptability

Copper Busbar: Stable at high temps (40°C ampacity = 85% of 25°C). Low oxidation impact.
Aluminum Busbar: Sensitive to temp rise (40°C ampacity = 70-85% of 25°C). Forms high-resistance oxides.

Safety & Application

Copper Busbar: Higher melting point reduces arc risks. Critical for data centers/substations.
Aluminum Busbar: Lower melting point increases arc hazards. Suitable for residential/light industry.

Trade-offs

Copper Busbar: Compact, durable, high ampacity. Expensive, heavy.
Aluminum Busbar: Cost-effective, lightweight. Requires larger size, frequent maintenance.

Why Choose Best Technology as Copper Busbar PCB Manufacturer?

Reasons why choose us as copper busbar PCB manufacturer:

Global Quality Certifications: ISO 9001 (quality management), ISO 14001 (environmental management).UL certification for flame resistance and current-carrying capacity.
Competitive Pricing: Direct factory pricing with no middlemen, reducing costs by 15-20% compared to industry averages.
Fast Lead Times: 24-hour prototype delivery for standard designs; 98% on-time delivery rate for bulk orders (500+ units).
Premium Material Quality: Uses 99.9% purity copper (T2 grade) with third-party material certification.
Advanced PCBA Integration: In-house SMT assembly lines supporting 0201 components and 0.3mm pitch BGAs.
One-Stop Service: Covers design optimization → prototyping → mass production → PCBA assembly → testing.
Rigorous QC Processes: 4-stage inspection: incoming material check → in-process monitoring → final electrical test → aging test.
Customization Flexibility: Supports multi-layer busbars (up to 6 layers) and complex geometries; Accepts small-batch orders (as low as 10 units) with no MOQ restrictions.
Engineering Support: Free DFM (Design for Manufacturability) analysis to optimize cost and performance. And 24/7 technical support via email/phone for troubleshooting.

Why Choose Best Technology as Copper Busbar PCB Manufacturer?

Our Busbar PCB Capabilities

Parameter	Value/Description
Copper Bar Spacing	0.8-1.0mm
Copper Thickness	1.0mm-3.0mm
Current Carrying Capacity	50-300A
Bendability	Customizable bending upon request
Surface Finishing Options	ENIG (Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold), Immersion Silver, Gold Plating
Board Thickness	3.0-6.0mm
Hole Wall Thickness	≥25μm
Aspect Ratio	1:6 or 1:7 (for 1.0mm copper thickness with minimum 0.7mm hole diameter)
Layer Count	Typical 3-4 layers; additional layers require design evaluation
Maximum Dimensions	Standard: 600×400mm; Double-sided: 900×600mm
Lead Time	3-4 layers: 13-15 days; add 3 days per layer beyond 4 layers

How to Get A Quote For Copper Busbar PCB Project?

Materials Required for Accurate Quotation:

Design Files

2D CAD drawings (DXF/DWG) or 3D models (STEP/IGES).
Cross-sectional busbar dimensions (width × thickness).

Technical Specifications

Current rating (amps) and allowable temperature rise.
Copper material grade (e.g., T2, C110).
Surface finish requirements (e.g., tin plating, nickel).

Production Details

Order quantity (prototypes/bulk).
Lead time expectations (urgent/standard).

Additional Requirements

Certifications (UL, RoHS).
Special testing (e.g., hi-pot, thermal cycling).
Packaging preferences (anti-static, custom boxing).

Welcome to contact us if you have any request for copper busbar PCB: sales@bestpcbs.com.

Tags:copper busbar ampacity, Copper busbar PCB
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What Are the Advantages of Using Bus Bar PCB?

Friday, June 14th, 2024

In the design of electronic devices and systems, power distribution and heat dissipation management are key factors. Bus bar PCB, as an efficient solution, is particularly outstanding in these aspects. In this article, we would like to introduce the advantages of Bus bar PCB and its applications in different industries.

What Is A Bus Bar PCB?

At the beginning, we should know what a bus bar PCB is. The Bus bar PCB is a special and newest design that integrates the FR4 material and metal alloy into a whole product, which allows the current transfer path into the circuit board. Due to the current carry capacity and special shape, it also called busbar PCB, embedded bus bar PCB, extruded copper PCB, copper inlay PCB, copper extrusion PCB.

Bus bar circuit board provide a more compact and efficient means of current distribution than traditional wires and cables. This design improves the overall performance of the electronic system by reducing inductance, increasing current carrying capacity, and optimizing heat dissipation.

What Are the Advantages of Bus Bar PCB?

Bus bar PCB offers numerous benefits when be using the power supply applications, its main functions are:

1. Reduce the inductance

Bus bar PCBs reduce inductance by allowing current to flow between tightly spaced conductors. This layout reduces the loop area and thus the inductance value. This is particularly important for high-frequency and highspeed applications, as it reduces voltage spikes and noise, improving system stability and performance.

2. Enhanced current carrying capacity

Due to its large cross-sectional area and high-quality conductive materials, Bus bar PCB can efficiently carry large currents. This is particularly useful in applications that require a large amount of power distribution, such as power supplies, electric vehicles, and renewable energy systems. Bus bar PCBs support higher current density compared to conventional PCB wiring, which improves thermal management and reliability.

3. Improve thermal management

The Bus bar PCB effectively dissipates heat generated by key components. In high power applications, the buildup of heat can affect performance and life. The Bus bar PCB helps maintain optimal operating temperatures through efficient heat distribution, reducing the need for additional cooling mechanisms.

4. Save space and weight

The compact design of the Bus bar PCB reduces the overall size and weight of the electronic components. Its simple construction and elimination of multiple wire connectors contribute to space savings. This is particularly beneficial for applications where size and weight are critical, such as the aerospace and automotive industries.

5. Improved reliability and durability

Bus bar PCBS have superior mechanical strength and durability compared to traditional wiring systems. Its robust construction and secure connections reduce the risk of loose connections, failure due to vibration, and mechanical wear. This improves system reliability and service life for harsh environments and demanding applications.

6. Simplify assembly and maintenance

Using a Bus bar PCB simplifies the assembly process because it reduces the number of individual wires and connectors. This not only speeds up installation, but also reduces assembly errors. In addition, the Bus bar PCB provides a more orderly and accessible layout for easy troubleshooting and repair.

7. Cost effective

Although there may be a high initial cost, Bus bar PCBs can provide cost savings in the long term. Its advantages in reduced inductance, improved thermal management and enhanced reliability reduce operating and maintenance costs. In addition, Bus bar PCB reduces the need for addons, such as heat sinks or complex wiring bundles, thereby increasing overall cost effectiveness.

What Applications of Bus Bar PCB?

Due the high current carry capacity of the bus bar PCB, makes it very suitable for power supply or power management devices. Bus bar PCB can perform well in such fields. Here are some common application examples that bus bar PCB can be used for. If you are seeking for a PCB to integrate into your power supply project, then bus bar PCB is the go-to-choice.

1. Power Electronics

In power converters, inverters and high-current power supplies, Bus bar PCBS are widely used because of their ability to efficiently handle high currents and excellent thermal performance.

2. The Automobile industry

Another popular field that bus bar PCB used in is automotives, especially in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). In the electric cars, it can be used for battery connectivity and power distribution, contributing to weight reduction and performance improvements.

3. Renewable energy

Bus bar PCB is an environment friendly material, it is often used in solar systems, wind turbines and energy storage solutions to manage high currents and enhance reliability.

4. Industrial equipment

In industrial machinery and equipment, Busbar PCB provides powerful and efficient power distribution for motors, drives and control systems.

5. Aerospace

Bus bar PCBS are used in aerospace applications, such as avionics and power distribution systems, where size, weight and reliability are key factors.

Final Words

All in all, bus bar PCB offers significant advantages in handling high currents, improving thermal management, and providing reliable power distribution across various applications. By integrating bus bar PCBs, industries can achieve better power management, reduced system size and weight, and improved overall reliability.

Best Technology is a one-stop PCB solution provider in Asia, we offer various kinds of PCBs not only include bus bar PCB, but also Extra thin PCB, RF PCB, HDI PCB, Heavy copper PCB, Ceramic PCB, Metal Core PCB, Flex PCB and rigid flex PCB, PCBA and so more. We have more than 17 years-experience in PCB design and manufacturing, and served more than 1200 customers. Choosing Best Technology as your supplier ensures you get high quality PCBs, helping to improve the performance and competitiveness of your products. Contact us right now to customize your own PCB!

Tags:aluminum bus bar pcb, Bus Bar PCB, Busbar PCB, Copper busbar PCB, copper inlay pcb, embeded bus bar pcb
Posted in best pcb, bestpcb, FAQ, FR4 PCB, HDI PCB, mcpcb, Metal Core PCB, PCB News, PCB Technology, RF Board, Rigid Flex Circuit, Special PCB | No Comments »

Do You Know What Is PCB Stiffener Busbar?

Wednesday, March 27th, 2024

Busbar PCB is an electronic component, also known as a socket board or mother board, which is an important part of an electronic device and is used to connect and transmit current and signals, so it plays a crucial role in the design of electronic devices. Busbar PCB is like a PCB coated with an “ear”, which we also call it as stiffener busbar. Want to know more about it? Welcome to reading on!

What is PCB Stiffener Busbar?

A busbar circuit board is a key component used in electrical systems. It usually consists of a main conductive busbar (usually copper or aluminum) that is covered with an insulating material such as prepreg or resin. Busbar boards are used to transmit high currents in power systems, such as in industrial equipment, power distribution systems, and control panels.

These boards typically have multiple slots for inserting electrical connectors or electrical devices. The design of the bus board can be customized according to the specific application requirements to adapt to different current and voltage requirements. They are widely used in the industrial and commercial sectors because they provide reliable power transmission and connectivity solutions.

What Are Benefits of Using a Busbar PCB?

Busbar stiffener pcb serves as a crucial element of conducting electricity, especially when simplifying the power distribution process, saving costs and requiring greater flexibility. They come in a variety of sizes and different coatings, such as aluminum and copper. The material type, dimension, size and shape of the busbar determine the current capacity it can carry. Compared with a coil harness, though it is expensive in manufacturing, but has longer life and does not need to replace in a short time. Here we listing some benefits of busbar PCB:

Efficient Power Distribution

With the fast development of new energy cars and vehicles, the electronic parts in the cars also should updated to meet the demands of renewable energy powers. So the busbar PCB stands out because it can distribute the powers in devices efficiently. Meanwhile, it also can help to reducing the consumption of energy. Because of its integrated nature, it can easily adapt to the integration of renewable energy, which is quite intriguing to consider in this advanced era of energy.

High Conductivity

The busbar stiffener on a PCB is typically crafted from either copper or aluminum. Copper, renowned for its excellent conductivity, stands out as the preferred material for busbars due to its capacity to facilitate the flow of electrons. Moreover, copper’s robust nature enables it to withstand harsh environmental conditions and high temperatures, thus bolstering its longevity and durability. But if you want PCB that can carry higher conductivity, ceramic PCB is the best choice but a little bit higher cost.

Can be Customized

Busbar is a highly customization product in PCB design, it offers various options for its mechanical capability. So maybe you can find it in every industry, such as educations, medical instruments, factories, communications and various electronic devices. Tight space and compact devices require substitute electrical distribution, and busbars serve the purpose right. Due to its high compact and strong mechanical and chemistry, busbar PCB can be used in extremely harsh weather. This makes them a good choice in substations or devices that need to used outdoors.

Space Saving

Due to the copper materials mounted on the PCB, Busbar PCBs can replace multiple traces with a single, wider conductive strip, saving valuable space on the board. This compact design is particularly useful in applications where space is limited. In addition, busbar PCB provides multi-layer structure when your design is complex and has density traces network.

By means our extensive PCB & PCBA manufacturing and professional engineering team, we are highly able to build and design busbar PCBs according to your specific requirements. Meanwhile, we follow the strict quality system to make sure the high-quality of products. You are welcome to contact us or send e-mail if you want to make such busbar stiffener PCB.

Tags:Bus Bar PCB, Busbar PCB, Copper busbar PCB
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