As you plan for your new build’s first Arc Flash Analysis, it’s important you have an idea of what to expect. With the initial Arc Flash Analysis on the horizon, you have the opportunity to get the most accurate measurements the first time. Here is what you can expect to occur during a typical Arc Flash Analysis of your new build.
When to involve your Arc Flash Analysis Partner
With any new construction, timing is of the essence. It’s critical that you include the Arc Flash Analysis in your project timeline so that the project is complete and verified by the expected end date. Typically, our clients bring us into the project during the design phase. We are able to begin developing the model and calculations in tandem to the construction phase of the project. In other cases, clients will bring us in after the design is complete the project is in construction. In either case, the arc flash analysis can begin prior to the completion of construction.
Discovery
The first step in the analysis is the discovery phase. On a new build, this information is easily obtainable as the design drawings and documentation should be readily available from the construction process. Additional information needed can be found in equipment submittals used to approve the specifics of equipment installed as part of the project, along with field measured and installed cable lengths and sizes, large motor ratings, and transformer impedance values. Our engineers work directly with the contractors to collect this information, leaving the guesswork out of the process.
Analysis & Adjustments
Once our team has completed the field investigation, we will begin building a model. We use specialized software that is designed to take the data collected to build the power system model.
Once the model is built, our engineers begin to analyze the electrical system's performance under various conditions. Through the software, we create a set of potential scenarios that may occur within the real world. The software allows us to identify areas where these scenarios' results may have negative impacts on the equipment.
Our in-depth analysis includes:
- Protective Device Settings
- Coordination Between Devices
- Available Fault Current
- Damage Curve on Equipment and Conductors
- The Effects of the Results have on Arc Flash Hazard Levels
After analyzing the potential impacts of the events, our engineers modify the model to develop recommendations for the client. These recommendations may include adjusting the equipment or protective devices and changing the PPE an employee wears. Additionally, our team will analyze potential equipment upgrades for a facility to get into compliance.
Final Report with Recommendations
The last phase of the process is the Final Report. The report will include a summary of the work performed, our calculations..This initial analysis serves as a baseline for future studies completed. Supporting documentation will include the schematic of the overall system, protective device coordination curves, arc flash results and label data, and the model's electronic source file. We provide the labels to the facility and support the labels' application to all the equipment. Your facility is now in compliance, and you can check that item off of your list.
Having a trusted consultant like Casne Engineering to ensure you are in compliance will take the stress and work off of you. With over 40 years of success in professional engineering and technology integration services for critical industrial facilities, we develop and support engineered solutions using the best of breed products and technologies to complete Arc Flash Analysis across multiple industries. Contact us here to schedule a time to talk with our team.
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