Selasa, 18 Februari 2014

The Value Of Arc Flash Analysis

By Krystal Branch


The use of high voltage poses the danger of electric flashes. This calls for detailed arc flash analysis to establish the potential danger and inform you of the measures that need to be taken in order to prevent disasters. Passing high voltage current through the air occasions blasts which damage equipment and may cause extensive injuries. The temperatures can reach 35000F.

Extreme pressure and rapid heating leads to destruction of electric systems and equipment. All metal conductors that are along the path of this electric current are affected. Rapid expansion and fast moving heat wave are disastrous to workers and equipment along the path. Metal conductors along the path of the heat and electric current will melt. There is a high possibility of igniting fire which would destroy the premises.

Extreme temperatures combined with high voltage precipitate a disaster. There is imminent death or grave injuries for anyone caught in the situation. It takes a fraction of a second to cause the explosion such that personnel around the area are helpless. They have no time to switch off machines or escape from the scene. The magnitude is like that of several sticks of dynamite put together. It causes a collapse of the entire electric system and results in a huge fire.

Regulations on electricity use require that areas that are prone to flashes be labeled comprehensively. Their potential should also be clearly indicated so that people working in the area can take caution. Such potential can only be identified if a detailed study is conducted. The danger zones will be marked after a thorough evaluation of the electric systems. Boundaries are clearly marked so that anyone entering or working in the area is sensitive to the possibility of a blast.

All industries or operations dealing with energized electric parts are required to provide personal protection equipment (PPE) to their personnel. Though the law prohibits working with energized tools, it is sometimes inevitable or might happen by mistake. Protecting the workers reduces the severity in case an accident happens. PPE are also selected after a thorough evaluation of the entire electric system.

Failure to maintain electric systems properly raises the level of exposure to danger. Professional installation and constant maintenance are necessary to guarantee safety. A detailed analysis will give you the potential of your system so that adequate measures can be taken to protect those working around. It also will indicate the weaknesses and strengths of such a system and allow you to put in place measures for protection.

Reduction of arch flash energy is possible with the support of experts. It saves expenditure on PPE and reduces the extent of damage. An adjustment on the tripping device is made so that the circuit is broken at lower voltage. This move affects how protective devices are coordinated but it has numerous benefits. Only an expert can effectively carry out the task.

The report from arc flash analysis offers unique details for each system. It gives you a thorough understanding of your potential and possible weaknesses. You understand the dangers you are exposed to in order to take precaution.




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