Heat dissipation from a switchboard

[naj-elec]

I'm wondering how to calculate how much heat is dissipated from a switchboard?
I have a max load of 300amps
Any idea how to calculate how much heat is dissipating ?

 

[GroovyGuy]

Naj,
Why do you need to know this information? For HVAC loading? (I am curious.)
Usually with large switchboards, or switchgear, the OEM will always provide you with guidance. In your case I would expect the losses to be very low (ie << 100W).
The heat generated in any switchboard is produced from a number of sources, including;
1) heat from thermal-magnetic circuit-breakers, or fuses
2) heat from the main (and any feeder) busses
I would suggest that of you really need to know the heat dissipation of your 300A switchboard, that you ask the OEM.
Regards,
GG

"I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work." Thomas Alva Edison (1847-1931)

 

[drawoh]

naj-elec,

A quick and dirty assumption is that the voltage and current going into the switchboard all is dissipated as heat. If your switchboard is sending out actual power, rather than just signals, then your heat dissipated is a function of your efficiency. If there is a driveshaft exiting your switchboard, then the mechanical power transmitted can be subtracted from your electrical power going in.

--
JHG