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How would you determine the Hazard Risk Category of your Switch Gear so that an appropriate Arc-Flash hazard mitigation can be implemented?

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Question added by Deleted user
Date Posted: 2016/02/19
Ahmad Alsuwaidi
by Ahmad Alsuwaidi , Area Manager , Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA)

You may refer to NFPA 70E for information about Arc Flash hazard and safety.The standard demands arc flash incident energy calculation. In other words, the energy resulting from an internal arc in the switchgear. Based on the level of energy emitted, the standard describes the appropriate working distance and required PPE. On the other hand, if you are interested in a "mitigation" solution then you have to look into the causes of arcs and try to avoid them. In particular, arcs often occur in LV MCC due to circuit nature(i.e.contractors continuously operating) where parts are frequently replaced and maintenance is essential.Nonetheless, some switchgears are designed to contain an arc within the cubicle without affecting other cubicles, other designs will allow the fumes resulting from an arc to exit through a specifically designed flaps or duct to avoid panel damage. Moreover, an advanced solution would be an implementation of an arc flash detection and protection scheme. This can be a retrofit solution for existing switchgears or it can be combined with an arc-proof switchgear in a new installation. Arc sensors and related arc relays are required to achieve optimum protection and faster trip.

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