An arc flash is a type of electrical explosion that results from a low impedance connection to ground or another voltage phase in an electrical system. The light and heat produced from an arc flash can cause substantial damage, fire and injury. An arc fault is the most catastrophic event that can occur in an electrical enclosure, with temperatures that can reach or exceed 19 000°C at the arc terminal. The massive energy released in the fault rapidly vaporises the metal conductors, blasting molten metal and expanding plasma outward with exceptional force.
There are many methods of protecting personnel from arc flash hazards, which can include personnel wearing arc flash personal protective equipment (PPE) or modifying the design and configuration of electrical equipment.
A complete solution portfolio
Dehnarc is a modular arc fault protection system for low-voltage distribution boards in transformer stations, which protects persons from the effects of an arc fault during live working. The system detects arc faults in an installation and immediately causes a short circuit, which trips the upstream over-current protective devices. Consequently, the incident energy is considerably reduced.
Dehn’s portfolio of PPE, known as Dehncare, includes an arc-fault-tested protective suit and a jacket for use in switchgear installations. After safety helmets and protective gloves, protective suits and jackets constitute the third most important component for reducing the risk of arc flash injury whilst working on electrical installations. The two-part protective suit and the jacket protect workers from the thermal effects of an arc fault when working on electrical installations. Whilst the materials used must provide maximum protection and excellent wearing comfort, it is also important that they do not continue to burn after the extinction of an arc and also that they do not release any toxic or corrosive elements.
Within the Dehncare range, this is ensured by breathable leather and neoprene materials which have already been used for the protective gloves. Thanks to their flame-retardant lining and the reflective strips, the protective suit and jacket provide comprehensive protection. The zip and hook-and-loop fasteners are also made of flame-retardant material.
All equipment has been rigorously tested in standardised tests proving their efficiency in the event of an arc fault. Dehncare meets and exceeds all criteria laid out in the guideline for the selection of personal protective equipment when exposed to the thermal effects of an electric fault arc published by the ISSA (International Social Security Association). It also provides a higher degree of protection than required by the International Electrotechnical Commission’s 61482-1-2 standard on protective clothing against the thermal hazards of an electric arc.
For more information contact Alexis Barwise, Dehn Protection South Africa, +27 (0)11 704 1487, alexis.barwise@dehn-africa.com, www.dehn-africa.com
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