Arc flash - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

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Arc flash
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

An arc flash (or arc blast) is a type of electrical explosion that results from a low impedance connection to ground or another voltage phase in an electrical system.

Contents
1 Definition 2 Examples 3 Protecting personnel 3.1 Arc flash protection equipment 3.2 Reducing hazard by design 3.2.1 Fault current 3.2.2 Arcing time 3.2.3 Distance 4 Research 5 Loss prevention program 6 Standards 7 References 8 External links

An electric arc between two nails

Definition
An arc flash is an electric arc supplied with sufficient electrical energy to cause substantial damage, fire or injury. Electrical arcs, however, fed by limited energy and well-controlled, produce very-bright light (as in arc lampsenclosed, or with open electrodes), as well as welding and other industrial applications. Arc flash temperatures can reach or exceed 35,000 F or 20,000 C at the arc terminals. The massive energy released in the fault rapidly vaporizes the metal conductors involved, blasting molten metal and expanding plasma outward with extreme force. A typical arc flash incident can be inconsequential but could conceivably easily produce a more severe explosion (see calculation below). The result of the violent event can cause destruction of equipment involved, fire, and injury not only to the worker but also to nearby people. In addition to the explosive blast of such a fault, destruction also arises from the intense radiant heat produced by the arc. The metal plasma arc produces tremendous amounts of light energy from far infrared to ultraviolet. Surfaces of nearby people and objects absorb this energy and are instantly heated to vaporizing temperatures. The effects of this can be seen on adjacent walls and equipment - they are often ablated and eroded from the radiant effects.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arc_flash

26-06-2012