Arc resistant equipment for low voltage motor control center applications

Due to recent focus on arc flash hazards, arc resistant equipment is becoming increasingly common in industrial facilities throughout North America. This paper addresses arc resistant equipment as it applies to low voltage motor control centers (NEMA 600V LVMCC/IEC 690V LV controlgear). A brief overview and history of applicable internal arc fault testing guides (IEEE C37.20.7 and IEC/TR 61641) are included. Test procedures and their considerations are reviewed, as well as arc resistant assessment criteria. An examination of the various methods to achieve an arc resistant rating (device limited rating and duration rating) are addressed as well as considerations for implementing arc resistant equipment in pulp, paper, and forest product applications.