Arc-flash mitigation in ageing electrical assets: strategies, implementation, and case study Insights

#Arc-flash #mitigation #power #asset #aging
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Overview

Arc-flash hazards are among the most critical safety risks in electrical assets, particularly within ageing infrastructure designed prior to modern mitigation practices. This presentation outlines a completed project that modernised legacy protection systems in 22 kV and 3.3 kV switchboards supplying 1.85 MW and 2 MW pump motors via 3 MVA transformers, showcasing an end-to-end arc-flash mitigation strategy from study through to commissioning. 

The presentation will detail the key drivers behind the upgrade, including the replacement of obsolete GEC relays with advanced SEL protection systems, and the integration of high-speed arc-flash detection using both point and loop sensors, alongside current detection to confirm arc-flash events. The session also highlights the innovative protection philosophy that enabled dynamic logic in a brownfield environment, and discusses the design and implementation challenges encountered. Outcomes were validated through detailed power system and arc-flash studies, demonstrating significantly enhanced operator safety, improved compliance with Australian Standards, and extended asset life — all achieved through a cost-effective upgrade seamlessly integrated with existing SCADA systems.

Speaker

Ian Zareei Headshot
Ian Zareei
Principal Electrical Engineer, Persis Engineering
 
Koushik Chukka Headshot
Koushik Chukkala
HV Commissioning and Electrical Design Engineer, Persis Engineering

Program timeline

  • 3.30 pm AEST: Registrations 
  • 4.00 pm AEST: Presentation commences 
  • 4.45 pm AEST: Q&A
  • 5.00 pm AEST: Event concludes

Learning outcomes

In this presentation, attendees will: 

  • Discover how tailored protection design strategies were applied to meet specific site conditions and operational requirements.
  • Explore the implementation of advanced protection systems, including SEL relays and high-speed arc-flash detection technologies. 
  • Gain insights into the design and commissioning challenges of upgrading legacy switchboards in a brownfield environment. 
  • Learn a repeatable framework for arc-flash risk mitigation, applicable to both ageing infrastructure and new developments.

  Date and Time

  Location

  Hosts

  Registration


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  • 9/340 Adelaide Street
  • Brisbane, Queensland
  • Australia 4000
  • Contact Event Host
  • Co-sponsored by Engineers Australia