Insulated Bus Bars in Low-Voltage Systems: Reducing Arc Duration and Energy Emissions

Power distribution equipment is the backbone of any industrial process infrastructure. Safety and reliability are the two most important criteria in the proper functioning of the power distribution system. Low-voltage switchgear (LVS) is an important part of power distribution. Minimizing arc faults in the switchgear is a matter of utmost concern to maintain a safe environment. Arc-resistant LVS is designed to provide an additional degree of protection for operating personnel performing normal duties near the equipment. In this article, we report a series of arc-flash simulations performed on an arc-resistant LVS in both bare bus (noninsulated) and insulated or isolated bus configurations. In all simulations, the insulated or isolated bus had a significantly shorter arc duration and lower energy emissions.