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 Post subject: arc flash enclosure
PostPosted: Wed Jan 06, 2021 7:24 pm 

Joined: Thu Oct 08, 2009 12:16 pm
Posts: 12
Location: St. Paul, MN
I have a client whom recently had some electrical work done. The contractor installed enclosed breaker (480V, 3-phase, 400A) in an enclosure of which the cover is secured with bolts and nuts. The Owner is wondering what type of enclosure this is and why?

Best I can tell it is GE arc flash rated enclosure. the front cover is literally secured with about 5 threaded bolts w/nuts on each side.

Anyone know what is the purpose of such an enclosure?


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 Post subject: Re: arc flash enclosure
PostPosted: Thu Jan 07, 2021 2:28 pm 
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Joined: Thu Apr 18, 2019 11:42 am
Posts: 93
What I'm about to say doesn't mean it doesn't exist, but...

I'm only aware of arc resistant equipment in terms of switchgear & MCCs. I'm not aware of stand-alone circuit breaker enclosures being "arc resistant". A picture would be great...

Mike

PS Is the handle visible and operable?


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 Post subject: Re: arc flash enclosure
PostPosted: Thu Jan 07, 2021 2:45 pm 
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Joined: Wed May 07, 2008 5:00 pm
Posts: 879
Location: Rutland, VT
sounds like he just used an enclosure for a stand alone breaker. Not unusual as I have seen that type of setup before in lieu of a fused disconnect switch. I have also seen that type of setup used separate from an MLO MCC to reduce the arc flash at the MCC.

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 Post subject: Re: arc flash enclosure
PostPosted: Thu Jan 07, 2021 6:12 pm 
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Joined: Tue Jan 13, 2009 5:00 pm
Posts: 606
If the cover requires tools to open and access and operate the breaker, it sounds like it may be a code violation.


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 Post subject: Re: arc flash enclosure
PostPosted: Mon Jan 11, 2021 8:38 am 

Joined: Thu Feb 17, 2011 11:55 am
Posts: 3
Location: Cincinnati, OH
It is possible that the enclosure is attempting to do something similar to enclosures used in Classified Area i.e. Class I Division1 by venting and cooling any any gases heated during an arc flash event via the gap between the cover and the enclosure box while maintaining the structural integrity of the enclosure.


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 Post subject: Re: arc flash enclosure
PostPosted: Mon Jan 11, 2021 9:06 am 

Joined: Tue May 29, 2018 8:19 am
Posts: 35
Yes, could be hazardous location enclosure. Is there nameplate? Can you post a photo?

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