Key Considerations for Selecting an Arc-Flash Relay

Dec. 11, 2012

Arc-flash relays are an effective defense against dangerous arc-flash events, and the decision to include such a relay in a design is an easy one. Less easy, however, is selecting the optimal relay for an application.

According to OSHA, industrial arc-flash events cause about 80% of electrically related accidents and fatalities among qualified electrical workers. Even if personnel injuries are avoided, arc flash can destroy equipment, resulting in costly replacement and downtime.

In response, many designers are adding arc-flash relays to electrical systems. These devices greatly mitigate the effects of an arc flash by detecting a developing incident and sending a trip signal to a breaker to disconnect the current that feeds it. Arc-flash relays are complex devices; an understanding of the technical details of their operation and features is essential.

This white paper covers key points of arc-flash relay technology so that specifying engineers, OEM designers, and end users can make an informed selection decision.

Arc-flash relays are an effective defense against dangerous arc-flash events, and the decision to include such a relay in a design is an easy one. Less easy, however, is selecting the optimal relay for an application.

According to OSHA, industrial arc-flash events cause about 80% of electrically related accidents and fatalities among qualified electrical workers. Even if personnel injuries are avoided, arc flash can destroy equipment, resulting in costly replacement and downtime.

In response, many designers are adding arc-flash relays to electrical systems. These devices greatly mitigate the effects of an arc flash by detecting a developing incident and sending a trip signal to a breaker to disconnect the current that feeds it. Arc-flash relays are complex devices; an understanding of the technical details of their operation and features is essential.

This white paper covers key points of arc-flash relay technology so that specifying engineers, OEM designers, and end users can make an informed selection decision.