Modeling DC Arc Physics and Applications for DC Arc Flash Risk Assessment

Abstract: First presented as a paper at IEEE Electrical Safety Workshop 2023 this webinar will discuss some of the history of DC arc research and its evolution into OSHA and NFPA70E. This paper will provide a high-level overview of (a) the current understanding of high-current, DC arc physics, (b)models presently used in performing DC incident energy analyses, and (c) recent laboratory studies to measure DC arc flash parameters for several voltages. This latest information will then be used to evaluate the accuracy of some existing DC arc hazard assessments, and to propose improved approaches to using nonlinear models, based on the nonlinear nature of the DC source, for more accurate analysis. This paper will consider the unique modeling needs of large battery systems (lead acid, lithium ion, flow, etc.), capacitor systems, and solar voltaic systems.