Which type of conductors typically requires more space when installed?

Open air conductors typically require more space when installed because they are designed to operate in an unconfined environment, allowing for proper air circulation and cooling. This spacing is essential to minimize the risk of overheating and to ensure safety by preventing electrical arcing or contact with nearby objects or structures.

In installations involving open air conductors, regulatory codes often mandate specific separation distances between individual conductors as well as the distance from other objects or surfaces. These requirements help to maintain a safe operating environment, thus necessitating additional space.

While insulated conductors are also important for safety, they often don't require as much space due to their protective coverings, which allow for closer installations without the same risk of contact. Subterranean conductors, while needing adequate spacing for installation, typically benefit from the confines of the ground which may also limit the dimensions of their trenches. Flexible conductors can be arranged in compact configurations more readily than the fixed spacing required for open air installations.