According to the NEC, how many amps can a copper busbar that measures 1⁄4 inch by 2 inches carry?

To determine the ampacity of a copper busbar measuring 1/4 inch by 2 inches, it's essential to utilize the calculations based on the National Electrical Code (NEC) standards. A busbar's capacity is influenced by various factors, including its dimensions, the material it is made from, and the ambient temperature surrounding it.

For a copper busbar that measures 1/4 inch thick and 2 inches wide, the NEC provides guidelines that take into account both the cross-sectional area and the surface area exposed for heat dissipation. The NEC ampacity charts indicate that such a busbar, under typical conditions, can safely carry around 500 amps. This value is derived from converting the width and thickness into a larger surface area, allowing it to effectively manage and dissipate heat generated when current flows through it.

Given these calculations and NEC recommendations, the busbar can handle significantly high current loads, making it suitable for various electrical applications where high conductivity and reliability are required. Hence, based on the NEC guidelines, the ampacity of 500 amps is the appropriate choice for this configuration of a copper busbar.