What is switchgear arc flash?

Abstract: This article will introduce you Switchgear arc flash from definition and arc flash protection methods.

Definition of switchgear arc flash

Switchgear arc flash refers to the arc phenomenon that occurs in the electrical equipment of the switchgear. When electrical equipment performs switching operations, arc flash may occur due to possible instantaneous current and voltage surges during the separation or connection of electrical contacts, as well as possible faults or defects within the equipment. This arc flash may be accompanied by a bright flash and intense heat and may produce gases and smoke.

Internal arc protection for switchgear from design

The Internal arc protection for switchgear from design is Arc Flash Protection Precautions. As you know, International standards such as IEC 62271-200, IEC 60092-508, IEC 60439-1, and IEEE C37.20.2 put forward design requirements for arc flash protection. Thus, if you want to do internal arc protection for switchgear arc flash, you can pay attention to design requirements for arc flash protection in switchgear. Other switchgear arc flash protection precautions are personnel training and operation and maintenance practice.

Internal arc protection for switchgear from arc flash relay

An arc protection relay is a stand-alone device used to detect arc flash in electrical equipment and take steps to protect personnel and equipment when an arc flash is detected in switchgear. These arc flash relays detect arc flash by sensing light, overcurrent, pressure, or sounds of electrical equipment. Once arc flashes are detected, they can trigger relevant safety measures, such as cutting off power or activating arc extinguishing devices, to reduce the harm of arcs to personnel and equipment.

Arc flash relays can do Instantaneous overcurrent protection and arc detection to protect switchgear arc flash. What is their difference? The instantaneous overcurrent protection Prevents the arc from continuing to exist by promptly disconnecting the circuit While Arc detection quickly detects the presence of an arc and triggers the protective device.

Preemptive arc flash protection for switchgear arc flash

The use of unconventional sensors to monitor the online status of switchgear is another measure, such as arc sensors, electromagnetic radiation EM, ultrasonic radiation, ultraviolet radiation UV, high-frequency current elements HF, infrared thermal radiation IR, chemical releases, measuring sensors, UHF/ VHF antenna, coupling capacitor, high frequency transformer HFCT, Rogowski coil, piezoelectric probe, UV sensor, thermal sensor, D point sensor, etc.

rc sensor is an advanced technology that monitors the optical radiation generated by arcs and triggers protective devices based on their characteristics. It determines the location and type of arc.

The advantage of arc light sensors is their highly accurate detection capabilities. Not only does it quickly detect the presence of an arc, but it also provides detailed information about the location and type of arc, making more sophisticated protective measures possible.

When selecting an appropriate internal arc protection for switchgear, you need to consider the cost, performance, and application environment of the device. In addition, combining multiple switchgear arc flash protection methods may result in a more complete and reliable internal arc protection system to ensure the safety of equipment and personnel.