An arc flash is a powerful electrical explosion that can cause harmful injuries. According to OSHA, these flashes are primarily responsible for the majority of electrical injuries in most industrial facilities. But unfortunately, most facilities don’t do enough to prevent these flashes, ultimately putting their workers at risk.
In today’s article, we’ll discuss what arc flash analysis is and why it is crucial for workers’ safety. Let’s get started.
What Is an Arc Flash?
So, an arc flash is a sudden, instant release of electrical energy. The explosion is intense, producing strong light and heat. The temperature of the explosion can reach up to 19k degree celcium. It is hotter than the Sun’s surface and can cause severe, life-threatening burns.
The flash results from a range of issues and human errors. For example, outdated equipment with significant wear and tear can compromise insulation, increasing the likelihood of this problem. Workers also use certain tools improperly without following safety procedures. This can cause accidental contact with those dangerous parts and result in an arc flash.
Importance of Arc Flash Analysis
Conducting an arc flash analysis will help you identify gaps and plug them in time (before they can cause dangerous problems later). This analysis closely examines the condition of systems like panels, breakers, and switches.
An engineer will gather data from your facility’s transformers, wires, and circuit breakers. This data is then entered into specialized software to create an electricity flow map. The software then calculates the total possible short-circuit current that can flow through a specific point.
This data is then used to determine safe work distances and the specific Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required for workers.
How Arc Flash Can Be Prevented
Regular maintenance, inspection, and due diligence are needed to prevent the explosive release of energy. The most effective way to stay safe is to completely de-energize the system before you start working. Also test the system for zero voltage.
When working near the live parts, you need clothing that doesn’t catch fire. That gear will also insulate your body from intense heat.
Keep in mind that dirt, dust, and moisture give energy an easy path to jump through the air. So you should clean the electric panels more often so the arc doesn’t form.
Who Can Perform Arc Flash Analysis
The study of arc flash analysis involves complex power calculations, so only a qualified electrical engineer should be trusted to perform this analysis. Make sure the team physically visits your site to verify all the settings. They must also use modern mathematical formulas to accurately measure the incident energy.
They’ll read equipment nameplates, fuse sizes, and also transformer details. After the data is collected, a computer model of your facility’s electrical system is created to get final readings.
Final Thoughts
Arc flashes pose a serious threat to human life, and nothing should be left to chance when managing them. For the analysis, you should only partner with a reliable, experienced engineer who has already handled the exact kind of problems you’re facing. It’s the only way to stay safe.
