Electrical arcs can occur when a gas is exposed to a voltage greater than its ability to block. An arc occurs when the voltage between the conductors is high enough to ionize the air between them. When ions are added to air, it becomes an excellent electrical conductor. The ionization of the air creates a current that warms and illuminates the air. This heat causes the ionized air to ascend, forming an arch-shaped stream. This is why the phenomenon is known as an arch current. An arc flash may generate temperatures of up to 20,000 degrees Celsius.
Arc flash hazards can endanger both humans and property. Some of the benefits of arc in flash for business include:
Turning off electrical components:
It reduces the risk of potential hazards as much as feasible. Work should not be performed on live equipment, and special caution should be exercised while testing the equipment after it has been de-energized or before it is turned back on. Remote tracking is used to keep circuit breakers from being too close to arc flash boundaries, which might jeopardise the worker who is using them.
Use technology that poses little risks:
Arc flash analysis and power system studies are performed to determine the dangers associated with short circuits and how protective devices interact with one another. To keep people and property safe, use low-risk solutions such as remote racking equipment.
Electrical and control systems must be replaced:
Ascertain that the appropriate degree of PPE (personal protective equipment) is available based on the severity of the arc flash. Engineering tools and procedures are being redesigned to be safer. Circuit breakers and energy distribution systems are designed to limit the quantity of energy that passes through.
Industries will be able to decrease the amount of fault current accessible by using non-current limiting breakers. You can use these items with an open tie during maintenance. Arc flash risks are reduced by reducing the amount of accessible fault current when dual power feeds are opened during maintenance. Current-limiting reactors can be used to stop the flow of electricity, which is useful during arc faults.
Change the blast’s energy:
Encourage the usage of arc-resistant materials. Arc-resistant switchgear captures the energy and heat emitted by arc flashes and transports it to an unoccupied location through ducts. It does this through the use of sealed joints, pressure relief vents on top, and stronger hinges. CareLabs provides a comprehensive variety of services for investigating and analysing arc flashes. Arc flash threats are examined by experts to ensure that your safety program is up to date. CareLabs can detect possible arc flash hazards and utilize cutting-edge technology to mitigate them. ETAP (Electrical Transient Analysis Program) software is used in CareLabs for study and analysis.
CareLabs employs crew members in several locations to ensure that our professionals are nearby in the event of a routine task or an emergency. CareLabs has swiftly established itself as an ISO 9001:2008-certified firm with a solid reputation and a long list of delighted customers. CareLabs provides arc flash testing and analysis services in all Norwegian main cities, including Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, and Stavanger.
