Arc Flash Software
An Arc flash event is a type of electrical explosion that results from connection to ground or another voltage phase also called a short in an electrical system. A short circuit can happen an place in an electrical system, it usually happens during maintenance. A dangerous arc flash event can only occur if the fault current is high around the 1000 amps range or more. The massive energy which is unrestricted in the fault instantly vaporizes the metal conductors involved, blasting molten metal and expanding plasma outward with extreme force. A typical arc flash incident can be insignificant but could conceivably easily produce a more severe blast. The result of the violent event can cause destruction of equipment involved or fire or injury.

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.

In general, arc flash incidents are highly unlikely on systems operating at less than 240 volts phase to phase.120 volts does not provide sufficient energy to cause an arc flash hazard. Some 480V electrical services have enough capacity to cause an arc flash hazard.

These are a couple standard that the USA and Canada Currently follow for more information click on the Free Arc Flash Guide on the right.

OSHA Standards 29-CFR, Part 1910. Occupational Safety and Health Standards. 1910 sub part S number 1910.333 NFPA 70E.
The National Fire Protection Association NFPA Standard 70 - 2002 The National Electrical Code or NEC
NFPA 70E 2000 provides guidance on implementing appropriate work practices that are required to safeguard workers from injury while working on or near exposed electrical conductors or circuit parts that could become energized.
The Canadian Standards Association's upcoming CSA Z462 Arc Flash Standard is under development and will become Canada's version of NFPA70E when it is released in 2008

These standards are somewhat complex in nature most all the standard software programs on the market can easily calculate and print of warning labels to create an OSHA compliant work place that is safe for everyone. Take a look at the free guide to Arc Flash software.

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Arc Flash Software