Introduction to Arc Flash

Protection

Sensor placement in arc flash

protection
Sensor placement
Define protection areas by using single line diagram
• Incomers and feeding directions

Measure distances between protection areas

• Distance between protection areas
has impact on technology selection

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Sensor placement
Sensor placing in MV switchgear
A – CB compartment
A
B – Busbar compartment
C – Cable terminal compartment

B
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Sensor placement

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Sensor placement
Placing sensors inside MV switchgear

Mounting plates can be used when

Sensors are assemble inside the
switchgear

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Sensor placement
Placing sensors outside MV switchgear

No mounting plates needed

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Sensor placement
Be aware of possible “blind” spots in arc flash protection!

In MV switchgear there might be a

short busbar between CB poles and
CT’s. In case of arc in this particular
busbar, fault current in not
measured therefore it is
recommended to transfer light
information to incomer arc
protection relay or use CBFP
function as backup.
Cable

CT

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Sensor placement
Sensor placing in LV switchgear
•Bus duct
•Auxiliary transformer
•Circuit breaker
•Point- or fibre sensor

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Sensor placement
Sensor placing on MV motor
•Cable terminal box is clearly subject
for arc flash hazard -> place the sensor
inside the cable terminal box

•Cable terminal on switchgear is always

subject for arc flash hazard ->
place the sensor inside the cable
terminal compartment

•Motor thermal protection by motor relay

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Sensor placement
Place the sensors according to few following rules:

•Sensors can be tested easily

•Sensors can be replaced if mechanically damaged
•Sensor can be easily retrofit to existing switchgear
•Place fibre sensor so that (LV) switchgear can be transported
in pieces to the site

•Always place the sensor so that voltage rating of

the switchgear is not put on jeopardy

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