Month: October 2023

Arc flash is a hazardous electrical phenomenon that can occur when there is an unexpected release of energy due to a fault in an electrical system. This release of energy creates a sudden and intense burst of heat, light, and pressure, which can cause severe injuries, equipment damage, and even fatalities. Arc flashes are a significant concern in industrial and commercial settings where electrical systems are prevalent, making it crucial to understand and mitigate the risks associated with them.

 

Factors Contributing to Arc Flash

Several factors contribute to the occurrence of arc flash events. These include equipment failures, such as short circuits or insulation breakdowns, as well as human errors, improper maintenance, inadequate training, or using the wrong tools. The level of electrical energy and the proximity of workers to the equipment during an arc flash can greatly influence the severity of the incident. It’s important to note that arc flash incidents can happen even when electrical systems are well-maintained, underscoring the need for effective mitigation strategies.

 

Mitigation Strategies for Arc Flash

Mitigating the risks associated with arc flash is paramount to ensuring the safety of personnel and protecting valuable equipment. Here are some key strategies to mitigate the potential for arc flash incidents:

 

Arc Flash Risk Assessment: Conduct a comprehensive risk assessment to identify potential hazards and determine the arc flash energy levels for different equipment and scenarios.

 

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provide workers with appropriate PPE, including flame-resistant clothing, face shields, and insulated gloves, to reduce the risk of injuries during an arc flash event.

 

Engineering Controls: Implement engineering solutions such as arc-resistant switchgear, current-limiting fuses, and arc flash relays to contain and redirect arc flash energy away from personnel.

 

Training and Procedures: Ensure that workers are well-trained on electrical safety practices and emergency procedures, emphasizing the importance of de-energizing equipment before performing maintenance or inspections.

 

Ongoing Maintenance and Awareness

Mitigating arc flash risks is an ongoing process that requires regular equipment maintenance, continued training, and raising awareness among employees about the potential dangers of electrical systems. Periodic equipment inspections, maintenance, and the use of arc flash labels on equipment can help personnel understand the associated hazards and take appropriate precautions. Additionally, staying updated with industry standards and regulations is essential to ensure that mitigation strategies remain effective and compliant with the latest safety guidelines, ultimately fostering a safer working environment. By combining these strategies, organizations can significantly reduce the risks posed by arc flash incidents and protect both their workforce and valuable assets.

 

About EPS

Voltyx’s EPS is a major proponent of modernizing electrical infrastructure, with sustainable practices at the forefront of everything we do. From substation services, troubleshooting and preventative maintenance, engineering services, and acceptance and maintenance testing, EPS can assist with all your electrical infrastructure needs. Our technicians are available 24/7 for emergency response. To learn more about how EPS and their NETA accredited technicians can help with updating your equipment, visit www.asplundhpower.com/eps/.

 

About Voltyx

As the holding company of five operating companies – EPS, NASS, EPST, TLS, and NOMOS, Voltyx is an integrated power solutions provider focused on guiding our partners through vision, strategy, service, and support. The Voltyx family has served the electrical grid for more than 40 years and is united at the core by providing exceptional testing, engineering, maintenance, grid equipment, and cyber security services. Our reputation for safety, innovation, and service is built on a foundation of well-leveraged resources and competencies, driving reliability back to our partners.

 

For more information about Voltyx and our family of operating companies, visit www.asplundhpower.com.

On July 31, 2023, Transformer Lifecycle Services (TLS) came to the aid of a client located in northern Virginia, by locating and installing a compatible transformer. Previously struck twice by lightning, the original transformer began experiencing a tremendous amount of stress from the high demand that comes with the summer heat. This transformer was then identified as the source of several widespread outages in the region, leaving thousands without power for hours at a time.  According to the region’s utility director, Tony Dawood, “These outages, for the city, are unprecedented. We’re doing everything we can, as quickly as possible, to make the station whole again.”

 

While the current transformer is on loan for the next three months, TLS will be busy rebuilding the one struck by lightning, as current expected delivery on new equipment is a two year wait time- a direct effect from the supply chain issues plaguing many industries.

 

“What’s very unique to electrical equipment is it doesn’t fail like you would think. It’s a cumulative process, so it takes time. You can test this piece of equipment and it’ll show that it’s working when, in fact, it’s already been deteriorating. And then it’ll completely fail,” said Dawood.

 

About TLS

Transformer Lifecycle Services (TLS) is an independent provider of transformer and substation services for the electric utility industry throughout the United States. Our management and skilled field-based technicians have received specialized training and are among the most experienced in the industry. Our customers know us as trusted resources in the substation field with established long-term relationships grounded in safety, integrity, reliability, and professionalism.

 

About Voltyx

As the holding company of five operating companies – EPS, NASS, EPST, TLS, and NOMOS, Voltyx is an integrated power solutions provider focused on guiding our partners through vision, strategy, service, and support. The Voltyx family has served the electrical grid for more than 40 years and is united at the core by providing exceptional testing, engineering, maintenance, grid equipment, and cyber security services. Our reputation for safety, innovation, and service is built on a foundation of well-leveraged resources and competencies, driving reliability back to our partners.

 

For more information about Voltyx and our family of operating companies, visit www.asplundhpower.com.

In the world of modern technology and infrastructure, ensuring the reliability and safety of electrical systems is paramount. One invaluable tool that has revolutionized the way we inspect and maintain these systems is Infrared Scanning. This non-invasive technique has become an essential part of predictive maintenance programs, offering a glimpse into the hidden world of electrical equipment, identifying potential issues before they become critical.

How Infrared Scanning Works

Infrared Scanning is based on the principle that electrical equipment emits heat when it experiences resistance, known as resistive heating. By using a specialized infrared camera, technicians can capture thermal images of electrical components. These images reveal temperature variations that may indicate problems such as loose connections, overloaded circuits, or failing components. The color scale in these images, with warmer colors representing higher temperatures, allows professionals to quickly spot anomalies.

 

Preventing Catastrophic Failures

One of the most significant advantages of Infrared Scanning is its ability to prevent catastrophic failures. It can detect problems that are often invisible to the naked eye, like overheating in circuit breakers or electrical panels. Detecting these issues early on allows maintenance teams to address them promptly, preventing costly equipment failures, power outages, fire hazards, and arch flash incidents. By scheduling timely repairs, organizations can save both money and downtime.

 

Improved Efficiency and Cost Savings

Regular Infrared Scanning also contributes to improved energy efficiency. By identifying electrical components that are running hotter than normal, facilities can address energy waste due to increased resistance or poor connections. This not only reduces energy consumption but also extends the lifespan of electrical equipment, reducing replacement and repair costs in the long run. It’s a win-win situation for both sustainability and the bottom line.

 

Enhancing Safety and Compliance

Finally, Infrared Scanning plays a vital role in enhancing safety and ensuring compliance with industry standards. It helps identify potential fire hazards and electrical shock risks. By proactively addressing these issues, organizations can maintain a safer working environment for their employees and adhere to regulatory requirements, avoiding fines and legal complications.

 

In conclusion, Infrared Scanning is a game-changer in the world of electrical maintenance and reliability. By harnessing the power of thermal imaging, it empowers organizations to detect and address potential issues before they escalate, saving both time and money while enhancing safety and sustainability. Incorporating this technology into your maintenance program can ensure the longevity and reliability of your electrical systems, ultimately contributing to the success and efficiency of your operations.

 

About EPS

EPS is setting the standard of excellence in the power industry by using our unsurpassed experience, safety record, state-of-the-art training programs, and professional credentials. Our technicians are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for routine maintenance, testing, and emergency services, and is a full member of the International Electrical Testing Association (NETA).

 

About Voltyx

As the holding company of five operating companies – EPS, NASS, EPST, TLS, and NOMOS, Voltyx is an integrated power solutions provider focused on guiding our partners through vision, strategy, service, and support. The Voltyx family has served the electrical grid for more than 40 years and is united at the core by providing exceptional testing, engineering, maintenance, grid equipment, and cyber security services. Our reputation for safety, innovation, and service is built on a foundation of well-leveraged resources and competencies, driving reliability back to our partners.

 

For more information about Voltyx and our family of operating companies, visit www.asplundhpower.com.