According to NEC® guidelines, busbars within a panel are classified as which type of conductors?

In accordance with the National Electrical Code (NEC®) guidelines, busbars within a panel are classified as feeder conductors. Busbars serve as a common connection point in electrical distribution panels, helping to distribute electrical power to different circuits or loads while taking on a significant current-carrying role, which is characteristic of feeders.

Feeders are defined as conductors that carry power from the service equipment to the branch circuits. Thus, when considering the function and placement of busbars, it becomes clear that their purpose aligns with that of feeders, as they facilitate the transfer of electrical energy from the main supply to various branch circuits in the system. This connection is essential for the overall functionality of the electrical distribution in residential or commercial applications.

Grounding conductors, service conductors, and branch conductors all serve distinct roles in electrical systems and are different in structure and purpose from busbars, which are primarily involved in power distribution rather than grounding, service entry, or circuit branching.