Arc fault protection
Active arc protection from the pioneer
The reliability of the AQ 100 series is based on our unbeatable experience in the field of arc fault protection. Our unique standard arc schemes ensure correct operation under all conditions. The clever protection system is used in low-voltage distributions as well as in medium-voltage installations.
Why arc fault protection?
Arc fault protection protects both personnel and equipment from the consequences of arc faults. An arc fault protection system detects the fault in less than 2 ms and including the delay in the breaker, the time to extinguish the arc is typically less than 50 to 70 ms. A normal selective overcurrent protection system can have operating times of up to 500 ms. In the event of an arc fault in a switchgear equipped only with conventional feeder protection, the risk of serious injury to personnel is very high. The ultimate in arc protection is the AQ-100 system with an AQ-1000 or Siquench extinguishing device. The ultra-fast arc extinguishing device extinguishes the arc in less than 5 ms.
For distributions with high short-circuit currents and for plants serving critical processes, the use of active protection systems makes sense and it pays off.
Maximum safety and minimum process downtime
Arcteq's arc fault relays for low and medium voltage applications are technological leaders.
Advantages of the dedicated arc fault protection relays
Special arc fault protection relays are designed to protect against arc faults only. They operate in parallel with the multi-function numerical protection relays that provide the classic overcurrent-based protection systems. This approach provides redundant protection and increases the reliability of the system. Arcteq's dedicated arc fault protection relays require minimal or no customer setup. This is essential because studies confirm that a majority of protection malfunctions are due to incorrect settings. The protection trip time is 7 ms for any number of circuit breakers under any operating scenario. No inherent delays are introduced due to communication bus operating times. This is of utmost importance when calculating the incident energy values.
Innovation light and pressure sensor
Circuit breakers can generate a strong light emission during switching under load. In doing so, the generated spark can activate an arc sensor installed nearby. Since the downstream fault condition results in set overcurrent trip levels being exceeded, both the light and current criteria may be met simultaneously. As a result, an arc fault protection system can cause the feeder breaker to trip incorrectly. Adding an arc fault protection pressure sensor allows for additional trip criteria that are not met during normal circuit breaker operation. The Arcteq AQ-02 arc sensor, which combines arc and pressure sensing in a single enclosure, achieves a dual sensor system in a convenient and easy-to-install solution. For installations with overcurrent measurement, it is even possible to use a triple measurement system based on current, light and pressure tripping criteria.
Arc fault protection - for personal and property protection
In recent years, the application of arc fault protection based on light sensing has become the new standard of energized equipment.
In addition to protecting people, the goal of protective measures is also to maintain plant function and minimize operational downtime. Arcteq is the pioneer and technology leader in arc fault protection. The design and production of these high-tech products are 100% carried out in Finland.
The effect of an arc fault on man and plant is massive. With temperatures approaching 20,000°C and a pressure wave resembling an explosion, the damage potential is considerable. Depending on the distance between the person and the fault location, the effect can be fatal. Other possible effects are:
The central issue is therefore personal protection and, in the case of critical applications, minimizing downtime and its consequential costs. The provision of a replacement system can quickly take half a year or more. A risk assessment helps to take the right measures before it is too late.
Causes of arc faults
It is interesting to note that most arc fault incidents in our latitudes are caused by human error. Arc faults are short circuits that cause major damage to electrical installations. Typical triggers are:
The effect of arc faults on people and machinery is devastating in systems with high short-circuit current.
Industry leading support
In recent years, Arcteq products have been installed all over the world. In addition to high-quality products, we are committed to providing our customers with industry-leading support and service.
Services at 42technology
Our experienced and technically skilled team supports and accompanies already before project start until project completion. We will be happy to submit our offer to you:
- Industry leading support
- Comprehensive introduction and training
- Support during commissioning
- Maintenance and troubleshooting
- Additional services such as protection concepts etc.
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