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Application of Arc Light Protection System in Medium and Low Voltage Switch System

Author(s)

Shengyu Xia*

Affiliation(s)

Fujian Sansteel Minguang Co., Ltd., Sanming, Fujian, China *Corresponding Author

Abstract

With the acceleration of industrial modernization and the expansion of power distribution networks, the safety and reliability of medium- and low-voltage switchgear have become increasingly critical, particularly due to the rising incidence of arc flash faults caused by insulation degradation and harsh environments. This study aims to address the inadequacies of traditional protection methods by exploring the application of dedicated arc flash protection systems. Using a combination of theoretical modeling and empirical analysis, the research evaluates the performance of arc flash protection in terms of fault detection speed, fault localization, and system adaptability. The findings show that these systems can detect arc faults and issue trip signals within 10 milliseconds, achieving fault clearance in less than 100 milliseconds - significantly faster than conventional protection schemes. Moreover, the integration of tailored protection criteria based on system grounding types enhances overall protection precision. In conclusion, arc flash protection systems provide a high-value and technically feasible solution for improving operational safety and responsiveness in medium- and low-voltage distribution systems.

Keywords

Medium and Low-Voltage Systems; Arc Flash Protection; Switchgear; Power System Safety; Fast Trip Mechanism

References

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