Arc Flash

Study for a fertilizer plant

Client: Fafard et Frères
Year: 2016

3E Eng. was mandated for

The preparation of the one-line diagrams of their installation and for the realization of a Arc Flash study

3E Eng. was mandated by the company Fafard et Frères for the preparation of the one-line diagrams of their installation and for the realization of a Arc Flash study. This study enabled Fafard et Frères to determine the risks associated with Arc Flash exposure throughout its electricity distribution network.

To do this, the experts at 3E Eng. conducted a survey of the plant’s electricity grid to produce the one-line diagrams. They then modeled this network on EasyPower and performed the simulations and calculations to determine the short circuit levels in the various power panels. An analysis of the protections was also carried out to determine the times of interruption of the different levels of faults.

The team then determined the Arc Flash intensity levels and the category of protective equipment required for each electrical panel in the facility. 3E Eng. then provided the customer with the various labels to install on these electrical panels. Finally, training on the security measures associated with Flash Arcs was given to the relevant staff of the plant.

About the Arc Flash study

A Arc Flash study is used to determine the intensity of Arc Flash flashes at the various critical locations of the electrical installations. The results of such a study make it possible to identify the level of risk associated with each electrical panel and the measures to be put in place to intervene in it safely when the electrical equipment therein remains energized during the intervention ( Appropriate PPE and approach distance to be respected). This makes it possible to control the risks incurred at this level by the workers.

In fact, a Arc Flash study gives companies the means to comply with the standards. Z462 : Workplace electrical safety and NFPA 70E : Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace. These standards set out the practices to be followed for employers with employees who are exposed to electrical hazards or who work in electrical panels with equipment that is kept energized.

For simulations required for Arc Flash intensity studies, 3E Ing. uses the EasyPower software.

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