Copper Wire as simple BusBar

[mdcryan]

Forgive basic questions but this is my first "Have a go " project!

I have 10 strips of LED lights (12V with total pull of 9A).
I have made a simple "busbar" by splaying high count 12AWG copper speaker wire, on the panel, and then connecting each of the LED strip to the two busbars (Positive to one side, negative to the other busbar).

I want to attach the copper splayed wire / "busbar" to the panel (currently just stapled), with either adhesive tape or perhaps glue. I then want to insulate the busbar, either by covering each busbar with insulating tape or perhaps creating a raised perspex cover.

My question: How do I calculate the potential heat in the busbar to make sure that either sticking it and/or covering it does not introduce any risks.

 

[dorke]

You need to know the length of the wire.
And the exact measurements of your construction.
Better post a photo.

 

[Minder]

12AWG is rated for 20amps, so you would have to exceed this to see any heating.
M.

 

[mdcryan]

12AWG is rated for 20amps, so you would have to exceed this to see any heating.
M.

thanks

 

[mdcryan]

You need to know the length of the wire.
And the exact measurements of your construction.
Better post a photo.

I've not constructed it yet! - but the LED strips are 75 cm long and there are 10 of them evenly spaced.
The busbar is 25cms long and the total draw of all ten strips is 9 a (0.9A per strip)

 

[dorke]

I've not constructed it yet! - but the LED strips are 75 cm long and there are 10 of them evenly spaced.
The busbar is 25cms long and the total draw of all ten strips is 9 a (0.9A per strip)

I suggest you use these kind of electric terminal blocks/strips.
They are isolated.
You can split them and use screws to connect the wires
as well as screws to mount it.

 

[Martaine2005]

Your "bus bars" are just fine.. Solder them for a good connection.
Or use the blocks that dorke suggested! Less chance of wire breakage if they are soldered though..
As Minder said, "you can pretty much double what you are using now before the rated cable has any problems!..

Martin