Importance of Arc Flash Hazard Analysis — Is Arc Flash Study Crucial in Power Systems Industries?
This guide will provide a detailed overview on the importance of Arc flash hazard analysis.
Importance of Arc Flash Study in Electrical Facilities
An Arc flash is an electric arc or arcing fault in which an electric current passes through the air in an electrical power system’s equipment from one live conductor to another or to the ground.
Arc flash hazard is the danger of a serious burn injury due to this arcing fault. Most of the employers are not familiar with the consequences of Arc flash hazards and the penalties imposed by OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Act).
Aftermath of Arc Flash — What Happens Exactly When Arc Flash Occurs??
When an arc fault occurs, it is followed by an arc flash and arc blast immediately. These are hazardous explosions that can damage the surrounding materials as well as cause injuries and even death. The enormous temperature levels of the arc ionize the nearby air and heats surrounding metals.
The arc flash temperatures can rise up to 35,000 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature of the surface of the Sun is 9,941 degrees Fahrenheit. By comparing these two temperatures, we can contemplate just how deadly an arc flash event can be.
These temperatures can cause burns to the human body and even the clothing can catch fire. Flammable and combustible materials can be ignited and would worsen the situation.
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The blog further discusses major arc flash incidents taken place in 2018 across the United States in detail here. These incidents help identify the electrical risk levels and assist in applying safe practices in order to minimize risk of burns and injuries to employees, vendors and contractors.
Hiring a professional electrical engineer to conduct an Arc Flash Analysis is a great way to ensure your facility and personnel are protected.
Let us know if you have any queries regarding this topic and do provide us with your feedback in the comments.
About The Author
Abdur Rehman is a professional electrical engineer with more than eight years of experience working with equipment from 208V to 115kV in both the Utility and Industrial & Commercial space. He has a particular focus on Power Systems Protection & Engineering Studies.
Abdur Rehman is the CEO and co-founder of allumiax.com and creator of GeneralPAC by AllumiaX. He has been actively involved in various roles in the IEEE Seattle Section, IEEE PES Seattle, IEEE Region 6, and IEEE MGA.
