The Possibilities to Reduce Arc Flash Exposure with Arc Fault Eliminators

Abstract

This paper presents a method to limit the arc energy and hence the hazard risk category value according to IEEE 1584 by using a system of two oppositely connected multi-sectional thyristor branches. A test circuit for testing the effectiveness of a thyristor arc eliminator was designed and constructed. Arc ignition inside electrical switchgear can be a source of danger for technical personnel. The arc energy calculated according to the algorithms in IEEE 1584 can be significantly reduced by using multi-sectional arc eliminator MSAE. For the actual measuring object, the calculation of the hazardous arc flash zone and the hazard category was carried out for the system not equipped with an arc eliminator, and then the same was performed in a system with an arc eliminator. In parallel, the pressure inside the closed polyvinyl chloride (PVC) electrical box enclosure was measured and then compared with the calculated pressures that could occur during an arc fault. It was found that a Multi-Sectional Arc Eliminator (MSAE) effectively protects devices supplied from low voltage networks against the effects of short circuit or arc fault, such as the sudden increase of gas pressure inside the switchboard, which may cause it to break, significantly reduce the loss of electrode material, limit the spread of hot electrode material outside the switchgear, and also significantly reduces the energy of the electric arc.

Influence of Arc Size on the Ignition and Flame Propagation of Cable Fire

“…The arc resistance is estimated at 20.7 kΩ. A typical "zero break" phenomenon of arc current is observed [28][29][30][31][32][33]. Typical voltage and current waveforms of the arc are shown in Figure 3.…”

“…The arc resistance is estimated at 20.7 kΩ. A typical "zero break" phenomenon of arc current is observed [28][29][30][31][32][33].…”

Arc-Flash Hazard Calculations in a Electrical Distribution System with Distributed Generation for Electrical Safety Audit

“…Exposure of personnel or equipment to flammable effects as a result of the temperature that can reach four times the surface of the sun as a result of arc flash, cut or burn formation due to molten metal parts scattered around as a result of arc, minor or serious injuries caused by the pressure wave that is released, high sound intensity caused by the explosion Adverse effects such as temporary or permanent hearing loss may be observed due to (up to 140 dB severity) [13]. Arc faults may occur due to external factors such as dusting, humidity and contact of animals with conductors and bad environmental conditions as well as internal factors such as faulty design of the system, inaccurate operations of switchgears devices and negligence shown in maintenance-repair works [14].…”