In the rapidly expanding European data center market, the adoption of Busway Tap-off Systems (BTS) is reshaping how electrical power is distributed. Unlike conventional cable-based systems, BTS follows a linear Power Distribution Unit (L-PDU) configuration—an advanced, modular design certified under IEC 61439-6 (VDE0660-600). This validation ensures exceptional current-carrying capacity and robust short-circuit withstand performance. The result is a safer, more scalable, and maintenance-friendly power backbone for high-density digital infrastructures.

Flexible Expansion Capabilities

One of the most remarkable features of the BTS architecture lies in its modular extensibility. The inclusion of additional tap-off units allows rapid adaptation to changing load demands or equipment layouts. Whether expanding an existing rack row or integrating new server modules, these tap-off units can be seamlessly added without interrupting ongoing operations.

The flexibility extends beyond mere expansion—installation and reconfiguration of plug-in units are equally effortless. This makes BTS particularly advantageous for hyperscale and colocation environments where power configurations evolve frequently.

Maintenance Flexibility and Operational Continuity

A key advantage of the BTS system is its live installation capability. Maintenance and unit replacement can be performed while the busway remains energized, minimizing downtime and operational risk. Traditional cable systems, in contrast, often necessitate complete power shutdowns for even minor maintenance, disrupting critical uptime requirements.

This hot-swappable characteristic grants operators an unparalleled level of agility and confidence in maintaining continuous operations, a fundamental requirement in the data center ecosystem.

Fire Safety and Thermal Resistance

The BTS system exhibits exceptionally low fire load due to its metallic enclosure and the use of halogen-free insulating materials. It has undergone rigorous testing and certification under DIN 4102-9 (fire resistance classes S60, S90, S120) and EN 13501-2 (fire resistance ratings EI60, EI90, EI120), depending on system configuration.

Fire barriers can be preassembled at the factory (MIF) or installed on-site (MOS), offering installation flexibility to suit both rigid walls/ceilings and lightweight partitions. This adaptability ensures comprehensive fire compartmentalization, crucial in data centers where containment and safety standards are uncompromising.

Electromagnetic Compatibility and Conductive Efficiency

Thanks to its metallic housing and optimized conductor arrangement, BTS provides inherent EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) advantages. It mitigates electromagnetic interference, ensuring stable operation of sensitive IT equipment.

Furthermore, the system design yields higher current-carrying capacity than cables of equivalent cross-section. With halogen-free construction as a standard, BTS delivers both safety and sustainability, aligning with Europe’s growing emphasis on eco-conscious infrastructure.

The compact form factor, aided by optimized conductor geometry and standardized bends and elbows, allows a substantial reduction in installation weight—up to one-half or even one-third that of traditional cabling—without compromising performance.

Ease of Installation and Handling

BTS simplifies every aspect of deployment. Its lightweight structure, tool-minimal assembly, and prefabricated modular sections drastically reduce installation time. The linear configuration minimizes routing complexity and virtually eliminates the cable management challenges that plague conventional systems.

For facilities seeking operational agility, this translates to faster project delivery, reduced labor costs, and cleaner, more organized installations—all essential in modern, high-density data centers.

Superior Heat Dissipation

Unlike traditional dense busways used in domestic systems, data center BTS adopts an open-air design. The copper conductors are directly exposed to airflow, allowing heat to dissipate naturally through convection. The steel enclosure further aids thermal management by conducting and releasing accumulated heat efficiently.

Externally, the anodized aluminum shell not only offers mechanical protection but also enhances surface emissivity for better heat transfer. Additionally, the nickel-plated copper conductors lower contact resistance, reduce voltage drop, and minimize energy loss.

In comparison, conventional cable-based PDUs rely on insulated materials that trap heat, making cooling inefficient in dense rack environments. Busway systems therefore exhibit far superior thermal performance, ensuring reliability even under high current loads.

Enhanced Maintainability

Cable-based systems are prone to insulation degradation, wear, and aging, requiring frequent inspection and replacement. In contrast, BTS’s metallic framework demands minimal upkeep. Routine checks typically involve monitoring temperature rise at joints, housing bolts, and feed-in connections—tasks that can be executed swiftly and safely.

This translates into lower long-term maintenance costs, extended system lifespan, and higher overall reliability.

Outstanding Overload Capacity

Whereas conventional power cables typically operate at insulation temperature limits of 95–105°C and reach maximum ratings of 1600 A (1000 mm² cross-section), BTS systems excel far beyond—supporting up to 6300 A with superior thermal and electrical endurance.

This elevated overload capacity ensures resilience under transient peak demands, making it indispensable for high-power computing zones and industrial-scale data facilities.

Space Optimization

BTS offers tangible spatial benefits by eliminating bulky power distribution cabinets or cable trays. It enables a more streamlined power architecture that can reclaim up to six cabinet spaces within a row—significantly improving rack density and airflow management.

In facilities where every square meter is monetized, this compact distribution model delivers measurable efficiency gains in both power and real estate utilization.

Simplified Design and Installation

The design philosophy of BTS prioritizes simplicity and efficiency. Layout planning is straightforward, as linear segments connect intuitively without complex routing. Installation requires no specialized tools—a major departure from the labor-intensive cabling methods traditionally used in data centers.

This design minimalism enables rapid commissioning, a key advantage during large-scale deployments or phased expansions.

Scalability and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)

Future growth is inherent in BTS design. Systems can be preconfigured with spare capacity for upcoming expansions, ensuring scalability without rework or downtime. The ability to reconfigure after installation makes capacity management economical and adaptable.

When evaluated across the full operational lifecycle, BTS consistently delivers a lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) compared to conventional cable systems—reducing both initial investment and ongoing maintenance expenditures.

Environmental Characteristics

BTS exemplifies modern eco-friendly engineering. Constructed from non-toxic, flame-retardant, and halogen-free materials, up to 99% of its components are recyclable. This minimizes environmental impact while supporting the sustainability mandates increasingly required in Europe’s data center sector.

Cables, by contrast, often contain polymeric materials that can degrade into pollutants. BTS thus represents not only a technical advancement but also an environmental commitment toward a greener, circular economy.

Conclusion

The BTS busway system marks a decisive evolution in data center power distribution—delivering unmatched flexibility, safety, thermal performance, and sustainability. Certified under stringent European standards and engineered for scalability, it stands as a superior alternative to traditional cabling. As the digital infrastructure of Europe continues to expand, BTS will remain at the forefront of reliable, efficient, and sustainable power delivery.