Quite frequently customers call us asking for information on the level of Arc clothing they should have. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide such information for a variety of reasons... We can however help you to determine the level of protection you will require providing your can answer a few questions about the electrical system you will be working on.

If you should have some questions on the level of protection your need to have for your Arc Flash Clothing, we would like to refer you to the Duke Power Heat Flux Calculator. This is free software that you can download to your computer. The program will ask you a few questions pertaining to the electrical system you will be working on.  Please bear in mind that each application is unique. If you are not sure of the particular application ask questions of those who should have knowledge of the application or consult with someone who can determine what the application is.  When you input the answers to the questions the program will provide you an answer to your question “What level protection should I have.” There is a link provided below and also on our Home Page under the content.

Examples of some questions you should be prepared to answer:

• The arc current in amps... This is the maximum amount of current that is available  to create an arc
• The arc gap in inches.  This is the distance the arc will flow through the air.. This is typically the distance between bus bars, or bus bar and ground.
• The supply voltage in volts. Provide your answer in numeric without a comma. For example 5000. Do not use a comma or 5kA

The software will tell you if the voltage is sufficient to sustain an arc. If it is not, a smaller gap distance can be entered so that the calculator can proceed. You cannot go back and change the gap distance. You must exit from the software (CTRL-Break) and re-start it...

After the number is entered the software will provide some calculation and display the result.

• Distance from the arc to the receiving surface. The receiving surface is the person who will be near the device when an arc flash occurs.
• Duration of the arc in number of cycles. The number will be based on the clearing time of the fuse or breaker in the circuit.
• Disclaimer: The Duke Heat Flux Calculator is a software product developed by   Alan Privette of Duke Power .It is offer as a free download. Use of this software is the sole responsibility of the user. There is no warranty on this product and we do not accept any responsibility for any inappropriate use, damage or injury that may result from its use.