What Is an Arc Flash Analysis?
A high priority at any facility is maintaining a safe working environment for everyone. With many industrial facilities containing equipment that requires large amounts of current, several hazards may arise if not properly managed.
An arc flash is an instantaneous explosion of electrical energy, and it’s one of the most damaging, dangerous, and potentially fatal events, making mitigation and prevention vital.
To prevent these disasters, having an arc flash analysis or study is an essential protocol to ensure that any working environment is safe and functioning properly, protecting personnel and preventing unplanned, detrimental downtime.
Fortunately, our expert team at Blue Runner Switchgear can help.
What Are the Different Components of an Arc Flash Analysis?
An arc flash analysis is a foundational component of any electrical safety program and comprises several elements.
First is data collection and system modeling, in which certified engineers collect information about the facility's electrical system. Then, these measurements are used to analyze and model the electrical network to identify potential arc flash hazards.
These simulations include short-circuit, coordination, and arc-flash energy calculations, all in accordance with IEEE 1584 guidelines. From there, a comprehensive report is generated so that any manager or engineer knows what they need to do for their space. Our professional team also installs custom warning labels wherever needed.
What Is the Value of Arc Flash Analysis?
Team member safety is the primary objective of an arc flash analysis, but it also provides operational information to minimize other hazards.
First off, an assessment’s inspection ensures that all the equipment is properly coordinated.
Engineers map all the facility's protective devices, identifying any mis-coordinated breakers caused by aging equipment or new equipment installations. If a downstream sub-panel faults, an uncoordinated system can trip the upstream main breaker, leading to a complete shutdown.
On the other hand, a properly coordinated system will only have the specific circuit fault, keeping the rest of the plant up and running.
In addition to proper coordination, system modeling from an arc flash study also highlights underrated gear, overburdened breakers, or excessive fault currents that could lead to catastrophic equipment failures during a fault.
Spotting these issues before they cause issues allows managers to plan appropriate upgrades and maintenance during planned maintenance outages, saving you from unplanned downtime due to system bottlenecks or worn-out equipment.
Finally, several electrical regulatory codes require companies to protect everyone from these hazards, including mandates from OSHA and NFPA.
A proper arc flash assessment will fulfill these requirements and keep your facility up to code and running smoothly.
Schedule Arc Flash Assessments With Blue Runner Switchgear
Our team at Blue Runner Switchgear has over 25 years of experience across a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, utilities, and healthcare. We’re a full-service, NETA®-certified company providing third-party testing and repair for all your facilities' needs, including NETA® electrical acceptance testing.
Contact us online or call (270) 590-4974 today to schedule your free consultation and learn more about how we can support your facility with arc flash assessments.
Blue Runner Switchgear is headquartered in Cave City, Kentucky, but proudly provides services nationwide.
