As the latest research has shown, there is an increasing need to provide a product that can withstand internal arc faults up to standard requirements. An ever-increasing number of environments require a switchboard that is online at all times, which means regular maintenance works to switchboard sections or continuously manned stations for daily operation as well.
Safety is a constant concern, as proved by investments in training for qualified personnel, in line with industrial safety regulations and the requirements specified in the IEC 61641 standard for testing switchboards under conditions of arcing due to an internal fault.
What is the arc?
During maintenance, operator error or an external event can trigger a low impedance short circuit. A large amount of energy develops, producing an explosion, with possibly lethal effects: a short circuit rated at 20kA is enough to unleash a shockwave with 22Kg of thrust, a toxic gas cloud with temperatures ranging between 7-8000°C, a light flash, and a deafening sonic boom of 160dB. Cabel System has developed and through CESI, an independent inspection organization, tested and certified, an electric panel which offers “passive” protection from the internal arc.
Through mechanical strength and resistance, protection is offered to the operator or mechanic, in any position relative to the panel, without the use of detection devices.
