Arc-Flash Detection Test Videos
Overview
To validate the performance of SEL-751A arc-flash detection (AFD), a series of tests were performed at a high-current test laboratory. These tests demonstrated that the SEL-751A can reliably detect the onset of an arc-flash event. These tests were performed at various voltages, currents, and electrode spacings.
Select an arc-flash test video from the list below:
- Three-Phase, 600 V, 2000 A
- Test of a three-phase arc fault at 2000 A, 600 V supply voltage, with a 1-inch gap between the copper electrodes. This is a relatively small arc-flash event. The SEL-751A immediately detected this arc flash and provided a trip output.
- Single-Phase, 2400 V, 34500 A
- Test of a single-phase arc fault at 2400 V supply voltage, with a 2.75-inch gap between the electrodes. This is a comparatively high-current arc-flash event. As with all of the tests, the SEL-751A immediately detected this arc flash and provided a trip output.
- Switchgear Test, 8000 V, 10000 A, 5 Cycles
- Test of arc-flash detection in a 15 kV, 1200 A continuous-rated circuit breaker cell. A 10000 A, single-phase arc fault was initiated between the circuit breaker and ground. The applied voltage was 8 kV, line to ground, corresponding to 13.8 kV line to line. The SEL-751A immediately detected this arc flash and provided a trip output. The arc fault was allowed to continue for five cycles, corresponding to the fault-clearing time of a typical breaker. Subsequent inspection of the breaker cell showed no permanent damage. Compare this to what can happen without arc-flash detection, as shown in the next video (46 cycles).
- Switchgear Test, 8000 V, 10000 A, 46 Cycles, WITHOUT Arc-Flash Detection
- Test WITHOUT arc-flash detection in a 15 kV, 1200 A continuous-rated circuit breaker cell. A 10000 A, single-phase arc fault was initiated between the circuit breaker and ground. The applied voltage was 8 kV, line to ground, corresponding to 13.8 kV line to line. The arc fault was allowed to continue for 46 cycles, corresponding to the protective relay operate times described in the paper "Add Trip Security to Arc-Flash Detection for Safety and Reliability." Subsequent inspection showed extensive damage to the breaker cell, including a broken insulator.
- PPE Test, 3000 V, 5000 A, 5 Cycles
- Test of a single-phase arc fault at 3000 V, with an 8-inch gap between the electrodes. The test mannequin is wearing arc-flash personal protective equipment (PPE). The electrodes are 36 inches from the mannequin's face. As with all of the tests, the SEL-751A immediately detected this arc flash and provided a trip output. The arc fault was allowed to continue for five cycles, corresponding to the fault-clearing time of a typical breaker. Subsequent inspection of the test mannequin showed no damage to the fire-resistant (FR) shirt or the face shield. Compare this to what can happen without arc-flash detection, as shown in the next video (46 cycles).
- PPE Test, 3000 V, 5000 A, 46 Cycles WITHOUT Arc-Flash Detection
- Test WITHOUT arc-flash detection at 3000 V, with an 8-inch gap between the electrodes. The test mannequin is wearing arc-flash PPE. This PPE is not rated for the arc-flash hazard risk category of this test. The arc fault was allowed to continue for 46 cycles, corresponding to the protective relay operate times described in the paper "Add Trip Security to Arc-Flash Detection for Safety and Reliability." Subsequent inspection of the test mannequin showed that the front of the shirt was extensively burned. Merely touching the burned fabric caused it to fall away.