Arc flash is a serious hazard in medium voltage (MV) electrical systems, capable of causing severe injuries, equipment damage, and downtime. When an arc fault occurs, it releases an explosive burst of energy in the form of heat, light, and pressure—reaching temperatures of over 19,000°C within milliseconds.
At OXCART Power System Engineering, we emphasize arc flash analysis during the design phase. We calculate incident energy levels at each panel using IEEE 1584 or IEC 61482 standards, ensuring that equipment ratings, labels, and PPE categories are accurate.
Mitigation strategies include:
- Using fast-acting relays and current-limiting devices to reduce arc duration
- Implementing zone-selective interlocking schemes
- Isolating critical switchgear into arc-resistant enclosures
- Designing with remote racking and control in mind to reduce personnel exposure
Training staff in proper switching procedures and keeping protective devices properly coordinated is equally important. In this blog, we break down the technical causes of arc flash, share real-life examples, and provide actionable steps to enhance safety without sacrificing operational flexibility.
