Compact metal-clad 15 kV arc-resistant switchgear: Simulation and test results

There is an unfilled market need for a medium-voltage (5 kV-15 kV), arc-resistant, compact metal-clad switchgear for a variety of applications such as data center, marine and critical health care facilities, etc. However, meeting ANSI/IEEE/UL design challenges to come up with such compact, front-accessible switchgear has been very difficult so far. This paper discusses the ANSI/IEEE Standards and explores the design challenges to finding a solution to this multidimensional optimization problem. Analysis and simulation methods of finding an optimal design solution are explained. Modeling of an internal arc inside the switchgear compartments is explained in detail. An example of IEM VESTA-AR™ metal-clad switchgear is used to illustrate the test results. Simulated and test results of an internal arcing event are compared. The use of internal arc simulation as a powerful design tool is explained.