Arc Flash (NFPA 70E)

[wbd]

Hello,
I'm looking for some information on what other companies are doing in the area of NFPA 70E, specifically in the area of arc flash hazards.

1. Have you done a arc flash hazard analysis using calculations?
2. If not, are you using the tables in NFPA 70E for the PPE requirements?
3. If you are a US utility, what are you using for a guide in selecting PPE for arc flash?

Thank You

 

[dpc]

wbd,

We've done several arc-flash studies based on calculations for a variety of industrial facilities. We are presently doing studies for some large fossil-fuel power plants for a US utility.

All of our calculations have been based on IEEE-1584 equations.

Outdoor substations are another matter. I know some large industrials who have done studies for their substations. I'm not aware of any utilities who have addressed arc-flash in outdoor subs, although I'm sure they must be thinking about it. I have had some discussions with utility engineers regarding arc-resistant metalclad switchgear and bus differential to reduce arc-flash hazards.

Hope that helps.