Intelligent Power Today Magazine

Answering frequently asked questions about arc flash relays

BY BOB ZWEIFEL, Littelfuse

The dangers of an arc flash incident—burns, blast, molten metal ejected at ballistic speeds—are by now familiar to every electrical worker. Most electrical professionals have read about strategies to minimize arc flash hazards, including arc flash relays. Now many of them are seriously considering integrating arc flash relays, but they have many questions about how to install this unfamiliar technology and exactly what the benefits will be.

Electrical Source Magazine and Littelfuse, based on the company’s frequently asked questions, offer some insight on how to apply these valued...

While most discussions about arc flash involve the calculation methods and associated personal protective equipment (PPE), electricians have a number of ways to protect themselves and their gear, including arc-resistant equipment and remote actuation and racking systems that eliminate—rather than reduce—electrical arc-related dangers while providing quantifiable force and other preventive maintenance data that can help avoid future catastrophes.

Similar to any energy source, an electrical circuit is a ticking bomb. It is simply waiting for the right conditions to blow. A twisted pole, faulty interlock, and enough energy will turn an electrical firecracker into a mortal lightning strike. Moreover, what...