Analysis of Arc Flash and Mitigation Techniques in Substation Protection of Attariya Substation Nepal
Date
2024-06
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
I.O.E
Abstract
An arc flash refers to an electrical explosion that might happen when there is a sudden
and intense flow of current, occurring either between a conductor and the ground or
between two conductors. Arc flashes produces intense heat and light, and can release
large amounts of energy. Arc flash analysis is required to quantify the associated risk
and minimize the possible consequences with optimal protective measures. The
electrical power system in Nepal is in growing phase. There are number of substations
being upgraded, new substation being constructed. However, the consideration of arc
flash analysis in substation protection system are not found to the level it required. The
primary goal of this study is to quantify possible risks linked with arc-flash incidents in
the Attariya Substation, and devise effective mitigation techniques. There were
unofficial record of number of incidents related to arc flash in Attariya substation such
as fire in low voltage switchgear and arcing due to underground cable termination
explosion. The transformers in Attariya substation has been upgraded with higher
capacity, which might have resulted in higher fault level in the substation.
Description
An arc flash refers to an electrical explosion that might happen when there is a sudden
and intense flow of current, occurring either between a conductor and the ground or
between two conductors. Arc flashes produces intense heat and light, and can release
large amounts of energy.
Keywords
Electrical power, Arc flash, switchgear panels