Overhead Busway Systems for Data Center Power
Overhead busway is a prefabricated power distribution system that runs above the racks and feeds them through plug-in tap-off boxes, allowing rack power to be added or relocated quickly without rewiring. Systems such as Eaton Pow-R-Way, Vertiv Liebert PowerBar, and Geist busway are rated from about 225 to 5000A with branch metering options. Comp-Utility designs, installs, and services overhead busway across Central Texas.
What We Provide
Our Capabilities
Busway Design and Sizing
We size busway and tap-offs for current rack loads and future density, with A/B redundant runs.
Learn moreInstallation and Tap-Offs
We install busway and add or relocate plug-in tap-off boxes, in live environments where the system allows.
Learn moreBranch Metering and Monitoring
We configure branch metering so you track power usage by busway run and tap-off.
Learn moreFlexible Rack Power
Add and Move Power Without Pulling New Wire
Overhead busway's advantage is flexibility: a plug-in tap-off box adds or relocates rack power in minutes, without an electrician pulling new conduit, so the data center adapts as racks change.
Busway also cleans up overhead cable management and supports continuous uptime during changes. Comp-Utility designs, installs, and maintains busway sized for your current and future density.
Key Specifications
| Attribute | Overhead Busway |
|---|---|
| Type | Overhead plug-in busway |
| Current rating | ~225 to 5000A (feeder and plug-in sections) |
| Voltage | 208 / 480 / 600V |
| Representative products | Eaton Pow-R-Way, Vertiv Liebert PowerBar, Geist busway |
| Features | Plug-in tap-off boxes, branch metering, flexible routing |
| Typical applications | Data center overhead distribution, retrofits |
Specifications reflect representative busway products from our manufacturer partners; exact ratings and configurations vary. Contact us to confirm the current configuration for your project.
The Comp-Utility Difference
Why Comp-Utility?
Long-Standing Distribution Partner
As a long-standing distribution partner of Eaton, Schneider Electric, and Vertiv, we specify best-in-class systems and back them with factory-grade service.
Engineer-Owned and Operated
Comp-Utility is owned and operated by engineers, with licensed Texas Professional Engineers (P.E.) on staff. That rigor anchors every design, specification, and installation.
Turnkey, Single-Contract Partner
We sell, design, install, and maintain complete infrastructure end to end. One accountable team and one contract for power, cooling, distribution, and cabling.
24/7 Emergency Response and Preventative Maintenance
Our technicians provide preventative maintenance programs and 24/7 emergency response, with rapid on-site dispatch across Central Texas when facilities need us most.
Licensed, Certified & Recognized
We hold ourselves to the standards of the institutions we serve, from professional licensure and jobsite safety to the industry organizations that set the bar for mission-critical work.
Licensed Professional Engineers
State of Texas (TBPE)
OSHA 30 Certified
Field Technicians
AFCOM Member
Data center industry association
7x24 Exchange Member
Mission-critical infrastructure
Frequently Asked Questions
What is overhead busway?
Overhead busway (busduct) is a prefabricated power distribution system of enclosed bus bars run above the racks, with regularly spaced access points where plug-in tap-off boxes connect to feed rows or racks. It replaces or supplements conduit and wire, providing a flexible, reconfigurable way to distribute power across a data center floor.
How does busway compare to conduit and wire?
Conduit and wire is a fixed installation where changes require an electrician pulling new wire, which is slow and disruptive. Busway lets you add or relocate rack power by plugging in or moving a tap-off box, often in minutes and without downtime to the row. Busway favors flexibility and fast change; conduit favors a low-cost fixed layout.
What is a tap-off box?
A tap-off box is the plug-in unit that connects to the busway at an access point to feed a rack or row, often containing breakers, a receptacle, and sometimes branch metering. Tap-offs can be added or relocated as rack power needs change. Comp-Utility sizes tap-offs per rack and installs or relocates them as your floor evolves.
Can I add a tap-off without shutting down the row?
In many busway systems, plug-in tap-off boxes can be added or relocated without de-energizing the bus or disrupting adjacent racks, depending on the system design and safe work practices. This supports continuous operation during changes. Comp-Utility installs and modifies busway following the manufacturer's procedures and safety requirements.
How do I size overhead busway?
Busway is sized to the total amperage of the rows it serves, with headroom for future rack density, and tap-off boxes are sized per rack. A/B redundant busway runs are planned for resilience. Comp-Utility calculates row loads, sizes the busway and taps, and designs the layout for current and projected density.
Does busway support power monitoring?
Yes. Many busway systems offer branch metering at the tap-off or run level, integrating with DCIM for visibility into power usage and capacity. This helps balance load and plan capacity across the floor. Comp-Utility configures branch metering and integrates it with your monitoring environment.
Which busway brands does Comp-Utility install?
As a vendor-agnostic provider and partner of Eaton and Vertiv, Comp-Utility designs and installs overhead busway including Eaton Pow-R-Way, Vertiv Liebert PowerBar, and Geist busway, among others. We size and lay out the system and install plug-in tap-offs to match your racks. Call (512) 346-0999 to discuss a project.
Who installs and services busway in Central Texas?
Comp-Utility designs, installs, and services overhead busway for data centers across Central Texas, including adding and relocating tap-offs and branch metering. Engineer-owned since 1992. Call (512) 346-0999 or email sales@comp-utility.com.