Ensuring Accuracy and Quality When Performing ARC Flash Studies on Low-Voltage Power Distribution Equipment

Abstract

This paper highlights major findings, challenges, and approaches in which specific techniques had to be incorporated to perform power system studies and arc flash hazard analysis for multiple gas transportation facilities. This paper will discuss methods to properly determine an accurate bus configuration for various low-voltage (LV) Motor Control Centers (MCCs) in order to meet the current IEEE 1584-2018 standard [1] for proper calculation of the incident energy at various locations. Some of the special techniques and challenges include determining the isolation status of the main circuit breaker, the isolation of low-voltage AC equipment from DC equipment contained within the LV MCC, and an instance in which there were multiple sources of supply contained within the same LV MCC. This paper will discuss real world applications and experiences throughout this project that could be incorporated into future arc flash study practices. This paper will also discuss quality control measures that were used during the arc flash study projects including field data collection processes, verification walk-throughs, and the owner’s Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) process.