Low Voltage 100–500 Vdc Arc Flash Testing

Does an arc exist, and can it be maintained below 100 Vdc, and is there a danger for your workers at your facilities? To answer these questions, we developed a test plan and requested testing at high voltage test laboratories. The arc flash tests were performed to measure the range of incident energy that may be present during an arc flash incident while live maintenance is performed on low voltage dc. The laboratory carried out the tests in a controlled environment to replicate systems voltage and fault current on equipment found in our facilities. The results should give us better understanding of arc flash risks at low voltages, and help us make appropriate decisions regarding the personal protective equipment required.