Open Access Open Access  Restricted Access Subscription Access

ARC Flash Studies in a 33kv Primary Distribution Network

Ojuka Otonye Ene, Wokoma Biobele Alexander, Bala Tekena Kashmony, Apeh Ferdinand Apeh

Abstract


Arc flash analysis is an essential part of power system analysis which requires a considerable amount of attention. It is intended to produce all relevant information required for safety and labelling of electrical equipment with a specific level of incidence energy in every piece of equipment. Arcing is a phenomenon which occurs in a circuit breaker or switchers when the current carrying contact of a circuit breaker are separated. Arc flash therefore can be described as a spark of electric current which leaves its intending part and travel through the air from one conductor to another. Due to the effect of arc flash on both human and equipment. Arc flash analysis is necessary to determine the nature and frequency of occurrence of the arc in order to proffer a suitable method for protection purpose thereby mitigating the consequences of an arc flash incidence. The sole aim of this study is to analyse, outline the major causes and effect, enlightenment on boundaries during the period of arcing and then recommending the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety majors to be adopted. The primary objective of protection engineer is to ensure safety and reliability in the generating, transition and distribution of electric power since fault cannot be totally eliminated but minimized.

 

Keyword: Arcing, Arc flash analysis, circuit breaker, switchers, arcing effect

 


Full Text:

PDF

References


Clark, C. G., & Engineer, G. S. (2016). The Basics of Arc Flash. GE Industrial Solutions web site accessed Oct, 5.

Doan, D. R., Hoagland, E., & Neal, T. (2010, February). Update of field analysis of arc flash incidents, PPE protective performance and related worker injuries. In 2010 IEEE IAS Electrical Safety Workshop (pp. 80-87). IEEE.

ETAP 2010 Workshop Notes on Arc Flash Analysis.

Ajenikoko, G. A., & Sangotola, S. O. (2014). Power system faults: A hindrance to sustainability and reliability. International Journal of Engineering Research, 3(11), 700-703.

Roscoe, G., Valdes, M. E., & Luna, R. (2010, September). Methods for arc-flash detection in electrical equipment. In 2010 Record of Conference Papers Industry Applications Society 57th Annual Petroleum and Chemical Industry Conference (PCIC) (pp. 1-8). IEEE.

Parise, G., & Scarpino, P. A. (2021). A basic assessment of arc flash in low voltage AC. IEEE Transactions on Industry Applications, 57(5), 4513-4519.

Gupta, J. B. (2009). A course in power systems. SK Kataria and Sons.

Chaparro, J. V., Ramos, G., & Celeita, D. (2021, April). The effects of means of grounding and asymmetrical current on arc flash. In 2021 IEEE/IAS 57th Industrial and Commercial Power Systems Technical Conference (I&CPS) (pp. 1-6). IEEE.

Klement, K. (2015). DC arc flash studies for solar photovoltaic systems: Challenges and recommendations. IEEE transactions on industry applications, 51(5), 4239-4244.

Almobasher, L. R., & Habiballah, I. (2020). Review of Power System Faults. International Journal of Engineering Research & Technology (IJERT.


Refbacks

  • There are currently no refbacks.