Arc Flash Circuit Breaker Definition

With ever changing electrical code requirements a circuit breaker with the ability to provide both arc fault protection as well as ground fault gfci protection was long overdue.

Arc flash circuit breaker definition.

But beware the combination function that is identified on recently. A combination arc fault circuit breaker is not equivalent to a dual function circuit breaker. The amount of incident energy a worker may be exposed to during an arc flash is directly proportional to the total clearing ampere squared seconds i 2 t of the overcurrent protective device during the fault. An afci selectively distinguishes between a harmless arc incidental to normal operation of switches plugs and brushed motors and a potentially dangerous arc that can.

When a severe enough arc flash occurs the overcurrent protective device fuse or circuit breaker upstream of the fault interrupts the current. Avoid working on energized electrical equipment and take extra care while testing to ensure it has been de energized or while re energizing it use remote racking technology to operate circuit breakers from outside the arc flash boundary instead of allowing personnel to be put at risk of injury or death. An arc flash hazard may exist when energized electrical conductors or circuit parts are exposed or when they are within equipment in a guarded or enclosed condition provided a person is interacting with the equipment in such a manner that could cause an electric arc.