Due to the open construction, there is the possibility of an arcing fault propagating from the load side of the main overcurrent protective device to the line side of that device. The switchboard, which consists of a bus, overcurrent protective devices, and ancillary components in an enclosure, is of open internal construction per the UL 891 standard. More arc flash control on the line-sideĬonsider this scenario: A transformer between 750 and 2,000 kVA feeds a UL 891 switchboard. Here are some examples of the benefits related to addressing these risks. The benefits to reducing these risks are both humanitarian and financial, but not all arc flash risks are as well known.Īnother area of concern is UL 891 switchboards. While a large motor control center is typically more dangerous, arc flashes can also occur with smaller motor controls, such as a 10-hp motor starter disconnect switch that is commonplace in many facilities. They begin with understanding different types of arc flash risks.įor manufacturing sites and facility teams who are engaged with Motor Control Centers (MCCs), it’s no secret that they present a high opportunity for arc flash risk. These are basic reasons why investing in safety today provides downstream advantages that carry forward for years. Reduced arc flash incidents also improve profitability and demonstrate compliance with NFPA 70E, thus helping to protect business’ reputations for safety. Many benefits of arc flash mitigation are obvious: worker safety, reduced injuries and equipment damage, and more business continuity, to name a few. We’ve also elevated the attention each arc flash gets at every level from the front-line to the back office. Collectively, our industry’s efforts have made working on or near electrical equipment safer. Many have embraced the concept of safety by design as the best way to reduce, avoid, prevent, and contain arc flashes. Manufacturers have coalesced around the standards in the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA) 70E and the National Electrical Code® (NEC). Fortunately, the manufacturing industry has successfully created more awareness of arc flash risks, providing education and guidance about safe work practices and the installation and maintenance of electrical equipment. In our previous blog on arc flash mitigation, we discussed the mechanics of an arc flash and why it is important to reduce the risk of these dangerous, destructive incidents. This audio was created using Microsoft Azure Speech Services.
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