A Step-by-Step Guide to Arc Flash Analysis in Finland

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When a gas is exposed to a voltage greater than its insulating properties, electrical arcs form. When the voltage is high enough to ionize the space between the conductors, the arc is ignited. When a gas is ionized, it becomes an excellent conductor, allowing current to flow and resulting in the arc-shaped current known as arc flash. An arc fault is a fire caused by an unintentional electrical discharge.

  • Arc flashes generate brilliant light and deafening noise due to their high temperatures.
  • A high-pressure wave that may discharge molten metals and shards is known as an arc blast.
  • Toxic vapors

Arc flash hazards can have disastrous consequences for businesses and electrical infrastructure. Commercial losses caused by arc flash hazards include:

  • Medical treatment, rehabilitation, and worker’s compensation costs, as well as costs related with accident investigation and production downtime.
  • Litigation-related legal fees and judgements, fines, insurance premiums, and staff repair and replacement costs.
  • Negative impact on the company’s reputation and name.
  • Loss of business opportunities as a result of a history of accidents, which may result in the cancellation of an electrical license.

Electrical Arc Flash Causes:

  • Insulation of a failing conductor
  • Parts of the body that are visible
  • Human carelessness
  • Inadequate switch and circuit breaker maintenance
  • The presence of water around the equipment is an issue.
  • Unplug any obstructed panels.
  • Wiring for high voltage
  • The discharge of ionization
  • Faulty tools and equipment

Methodology for Arc Flash Analysis:

Arc flash hazards can occur wherever there is high-voltage or low-voltage, high-current switching.

First phase: Assess the risk of Arc Flash:

  • Conduct an arc flash/fault study or analysis, which should include data gathering, software-based power system modelling, short circuit analysis, overcurrent protective device coordination, arc flash analysis, and arc flash evaluation.
  • An assessment of the likelihood that a worker may be exposed to an arc flash.

Second Phase: Threat management:

  • Working only with de-energized equipment to limit worker exposure to arc flash hazards.
  • Instead of manual systems, utilize automated ones.
  • To safeguard personnel from possible hazards, place physical barriers between them and energized machines.

Third Phase: Engineering control:

  • Short circuit current can be used to reduce incident energy.
  • Arc flash detection and suppression systems
  • Changing and remote controllers
  • Upgrades or changes to the switchboard
  • Putting up permanent circuit breakers
  • Bus bar insulation material
  • Replacement of blown fuses

Fourth Phase: Administrative controls:

  • Identifying incident energy levels by labelling switch rooms, plants, and other locations.
  • Arc boundary identification
  • Arc flash data and schematics are being documented.
  • Providing preventative measures and techniques to limit exposure
  • Putting incident energy and PPE levels into action

Fifth Phase: Put on personal protective equipment (PPE):

  • Personal protective equipment, although being the least effective, can minimize the severity of an injury but cannot prevent it. The energy levels of the incident are used to select personal protective equipment (PPE).

CareLabs provides a solution for all of your arc flash hazards. Professionals that are well-trained and experienced may assess potential arc flash dangers and provide suitable mitigation and control techniques to safeguard your personnel and property. 

CareLabs Service Advantages:

  • More secure electrical systems that meet regulatory standards and criteria.
  • Fully integrated power systems save money and time.
  • Create a more secure working environment.
  • Provide solutions that can be executed swiftly in an emergency.
  • Increase your safety buffers.
  • Save time by manufacturing arc flash labels and work permits automatically.
  • Avoid potential fines and legal fees.

CareLabs has crew members stationed around the country to guarantee that our specialists are nearby in the event of a routine or emergency crisis. CareLabs has quickly established itself as an ISO 9001:2008-accredited organization, amassing a clientele with a solid reputation and positive feedback. CareLabs offers arc flash investigation and analysis services in all major cities, including Helsinki, Vantaa, Espoo, and Tampere.