Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Product Release - DC Arc Flash Analytic version 3.0


PRESS RELEASE
December 9, 2015
For Immediate Release
Contact: Michael Furtak, C.E.T.
ARCAD INC.

DC Arc Flash Analytic version 3  

The new software program for DC arc flash hazard analysis & labeling is now available. 
TORONTO, ON - ARCAD INC. announces the release of DC Arc Flash Analytic version 3.0 (DCAFA V3.0) software program for Windows operating systems.

Download DCAFA V3.0 for FREE


DCAFA V3.0 performs comprehensive study by taking into account system voltage, available fault current, equipment configuration, working distance and protective device time-current characteristics adjusted for the circuit time constant. DCAFA V3.0 is applicable for systems with voltages from 180 to 15,000V DC, short circuit fault currents from 400A to 50kA, circuit time constants from 0 to 50 milliseconds, conductor gaps from 0.1 to 6 inches. The program has also been code signed by use of a cryptographic hash confirming the software owner and warranting that the code has not been altered or corrupted since it was signed.

More information about the DCAFA V3.0 software is available at http://arcadvisor.com/dc-arc-flash-software
 
ARCAD INC. located in Toronto, Canada helps facilities create safer working environments for individuals who service electrical systems by providing on-line and stand-alone software resources for short circuit, arc flash hazard analysis and labeling. Visit us at http://arcadvisor.com

More by ARCAD INC.


Arc Flash Mobile

 
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Thursday, October 15, 2015

Issue #31 - Developments in Fault Current, Arc Flash Calculations and Labeling

Here at ARCAD INC, we are deeply thankful for your confidence and loyalty and extend to you our best wishes for a happy and healthy Canadian Thanksgiving Day. Peace, Joy and Love to You. We would also like to update you on the important developments and a SPECIAL offer we have for you.

ARCAD's Short Circuit Analytic version 1.0 (SCA V1.0) program voltage range has been extended down to 115V and up to 220,000V. Also, new voltage rating combo box has been added to cable data entry screen and maximum transformer KVA rating was increased to 20,000KVA. More information about the SCA V1.0 software for short circuit fault current calculations is available at http://arcadvisor.com/short-circuit-software

ARCAD's Arc Flash Analytic version 5.0 (AFA V5.0) arc flash analysis and labeling software has been updated to fully conform with new NFPA 70E year 2015 requirements for equipment labeling. The labels created using the modernized AFA V5.0 program are now containing all the information required by the new standard, namely:

* Nominal system voltage
* Arc flash boundary
* Available incident energy and the corresponding working distance
* Site-specific level of personal protective equipment (PPE)

More information about the AFA V5.0 software is available at http://arcadvisor.com/arc-flash-software

Both the AFA V5.0 and the SCA V1.0 software have also been code signed by use of a cryptographic hash confirming the software owner and warranting that the code has not been altered or corrupted since it was signed.

Now comes the special offer. Purchase $350+ merchandise value before taxes on our new online store at http://store.arcadvisor.com and receive FREE brand new Type 1 Surge Protection Device (SPD) priced above $200 on the market. The "TYPE 1" are permanently connected SPDs installed between the secondary service transformer and the line side of the service equipment overcurrent device as well as the load side, including watt-hour meter socket enclosures. The device characteristics are:

* Manufacturer Name & Part Number: Mersen STXR220V3Y50NDP
* System Description: 3 Pole Wye + N-G Mode
* Voltage, V AC: 220/380
* Max Discharge Current: 50KA
* Nominal Discharge Current: 20KA
* Short Circuit Current Rating: 200 kA
* Voltage Protection Rating: 2000V L-L, 1200V L-N, 1000V N-G, 1800V L-G
* Maximum Continuous Operating Voltage: 320V L-N
* Mounting: Din Rail / Panel / Bracket
* Operating Temp Range (Min/Max): -40 to +60C
* Body Material & Enclosure Rating: Polycarbonate NEMA 4X
* Standards: Type 1, UL 1449 Third Edition File VZCA. E210793 IEC 61643 CE ANSI/IEEE C62.41
* Applications: AC Distribution, Power Supplies, Drive Protection Fire, Alarms Control Panels, Telecommunications, Residential, IT / Data centers
* Pre-wired with 3 ft. (1m) of #10 AWG conductor; Standard NEMA 4X polycarbonate enclosure; Tri-mount installation kit included (pipe nipple, bracket, DIN-rail)
* Other Included Features: Dry contacts, audible alarm and diagnostics powered line to line
* Market Price: $200+

Check http://arcadvisor.com/files/mersen-pdf/Surge-Protection-Trap-Type-1-XR-Series-SPD.pdf for the product spec sheet. Use "FALL 2015 SPECIAL" in the About Your Order comments box  during checkout.

Wednesday, September 9, 2015

Issue #30 - Fancy product design and custom label printing

We hope you had a great summer and fully used the chance to relax, spend time with your loved ones, and look forward to fall and winter ahead. Remember there is another summer next year, and you can work to make that one even bigger, better, and more fun than the last.

Here at ARCAD INC., we've been working hard during the summer time to offer you more products and services now in the Fall. We would like to express to you our sincere appreciation for your loyalty and take this opportunity to update you on new ARCAD INC. products and services.

FANCY LABEL DESIGN PLUGIN

Select the header that you want on the top of your label, or use your own header. Enter your text into the text areas below. Use a short phrase to describe the hazard and ideally, how to avoid the hazard. For example, "Moving Belts". You may like to complete both primary and secondary warning messages. Generally, use the primary message to indicate the necessary action to take so that you avoid the hazard (for example, "Keep Hands Free"). If possible, then indicate the nature of the hazard (for example, "Machinery may start at any time."). Use the secondary message to indicate the potential consequences if you do not avoid the hazard (for example, "You could be caught and be seriously injured.") and a telephone number to call in an emergency (for example, "Call x2015 for permission to work on this machinery."). You can save your designs, load previously saved design, download your customized label sign in electronic image or .pdf format and print it at no charge!

http://store.arcadvisor.com/index.php?route=product/category&path=61_70

CUSTOMIZED LABEL DESIGN AND GENERATION

ARCAD INC. offers many options of custom printed arc flash labels. Send us your data and we will create a free sample label accommodating your special requirements and send it to you for your approval along with job quotations. ARCAD is also producing luminescent signs glowing in the dark and magnetic signs that can be be removed or shared among equipment and vehicles. Contact us for more information.

http://arcadvisor.com/faq/customized-label-printing

5-YEAR LAMINATED VINYL WARRANTY

ARCAD INC. supplies are tested for durability under various conditions, including UV exposure, moisture, heating and cooling and chemical exposures. ARCAD INC. warranties labels made from its laminated vinyl supplies for a period of five (5) years. Non-laminated labels come with three (3) years warranty. It is important to note that in normal circumstances (moderate exposure to Sun shine, moderate temperature fluctuation etc.) ARCAD's labels will last for decades. Within the warranty period and after proper application, ARCAD INC. will replace labels which become unreadable or fail to maintain adhesion with the labeled surface. In such instance, ARCAD INC. will provide a one-time replacement labels to you.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Did you know that we are now on Google+ and Facebook? We are updating regularly so we invite you to take a look and stay up-to-date by liking or following our social media pages. If you choose to "Friend" or "Like" us, you will know when we release new product or service or post special deals and announcements.

Google +
https://plus.google.com/+Arcadvisor/posts

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/arcadinc

Tuesday, August 18, 2015

Issue #29 - Worplace, fire safety, facility signs and posters.

We are pleased to introduce a new ARCAD INC. safety supplies store online at http://store.arcadvisor.com. ARCAD is now providing high-quality, dependable products you can trust to keep employees and work sites safe. We offer standard materials and sizes, and an easy to use online shopping experience. Search by keyword, part number or category to find exactly what you need to help keep your workers safe and your workplace compliant with safety regulations. Shop our store, or simply contact us at (647) 693-7715 or sales@arcadvisor.com. We are happy helping you meeting your needs.

All safety signs come in three size options (6 x 4, 9 x 6 and 12 x 8 inches) and are UV, water, and smear resistant. All are printed with UV-stable ink and are suitable for indoor or outdoor use at service temperatures from -40 to +180 F. Substrate choices are:

    - Flexible vinyl 4mil self-adhesive "peel & stick" label stock
    - Semi-flexible laminated vinyl self-adhesive label
    - Rigid aluminum 3mm thick composite panel

Can’t find what you need? It is easy to design and order custom stickers and labels. We will manufacture to your specifications at our manufacturing facility. 

ARCAD INC. is also offering many options of custom printed arc flash labels. Send us your data in Excel spreadsheet or plain text format. We will create a free sample label accommodating your special requirements and send it to you for your approval along with job quotation.

Monday, July 27, 2015

Issue #28 - ARCAD website redesigned and revamped

After much hard work, we are pleased to introduce a completely redesigned ARCAD website at www.arcadvisor.com. Please take a few moments to navigate through the updated website. We hope you enjoy the new design and you'll find time to look through the many pages of information waiting for you behind the new home page. Please feel free to let us know about any suggestions you might have or additional material you would like to see on the website.

We have also recently released new Short Circuit Analytic (SCA) mobile app. The app takes into consideration all of the key electrical parameters of power distribution system including power supply, cables, transformers, motors, generators and performs available short circuit 3-phase and phase to phase fault current calculations in three-phase radial electric power systems. Visit the SCA mobile product page online at http://www.arcadvisor.com/short-circuit-software for more information.

Did you know that most fabrics recommended for protection against electric arc fires will burn vigorously when exposed to a sufficiently large and sustained exposure fire? NFPA 70E allows flammable clothing with a fabric weight at least 4.5 oz/yd2 to be worn when working on tasks stated low risk. Stating a task as low risk and allowing the use of apparel fabrics may lead to severe injuries and fatalities from clothing ignitions in arc flash incidents. A method predicting the behavior of the fabrics during convective and radiant heating has been developed, and an article describing the method was recently published in the International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) magazine. Please follow the link at http://www.arcadvisor.com/faq/ignition-melting-characteristics-fabrics-textiles for more information.

Friday, June 12, 2015

Product Release - Short Circuit Analytic Mobile V1.0 for Androids


PRESS RELEASE
June 12, 2015
For Immediate Release
ARCAD INC.

Short Circuit Analytic for Androids

The new short circuit analysis app for Android
operating systems is now available. 
TORONTO, ON - ARCAD INC. announces the release of Short Circuit Analytic version 1.0 (SCA V1.0) mobile app for Android operating systems.


Short Circuit Analytic mobile app performs available short circuit fault current calculations in three-phase radial electric power systems. The app takes into consideration all of the key electrical parameters of power distribution system including power supply, cables, transformers, motors and generators. 

Features and Capabilities:
  • Calculate 3-phase, phase-to-phase short circuit currents at each bus within your power distribution system
  • Determine maximum available short circuit current, the amount of maximum upstream short circuit current and the minimum available short circuit current contributed by one source only. Both the available short circuit current (ASCC) and the part of ASCC through protection device current values are required for arc flash hazard analysis using NFPA 70E and IEEE 1584 methods
  • Compute contributions from generators and motors
  • Add North American wire gauge cables as well as international cables
  • Perform comprehensive short circuit analysis by taking into account both active and reactive parts of equipment impedance
  • Determine fault X/R ratio at each bus
  • Save, rename, duplicate single-line diagrams and equipment data
  • Export, import one-line diagrams and all the equipment data for easy sharing
  • Send calculation results and captured single-line diagrams by email
  • Download the app on your Android smartphone, tablet for free
Visit SCA V1.0 mobile product page online for more information.
ARCAD INC. located in Toronto, Canada helps facilities create safer working environments for individuals who service electrical systems by providing on-line, stand-alone PC software programs and mobile apps for short circuit, arc flash hazard analysis and labeling. Visit us at www.arcadvisor.com

More by ARCAD INC.


Arc Flash Mobile

 
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Monday, April 6, 2015

Issue #27 - Ignition and Melting Characteristics of Protective Clothing

Wishing you a Happy Easter! I hope some time out for rest and relaxation with your loved ones puts a spring in your step and gives you a chance to celebrate life and all its blessings. Peace, love, joy and yummy Easter eggs to you!

Here at ARCAD INC., we would also like to express to you our sincere appreciation for your loyalty and take this opportunity to update you on arc flash news and ARCAD INC. solutions addressing the matter.

HOW TO EVALUATE THRESHOLD INCIDENT ENERGY FOR IGNITION OR MELTING OF PROTECTIVE CLOTHING

In many cases, if exposed to a sufficiently large and sustained exposure fire, the fire-retardant (FR) fabrics will burn vigorously. Fabric's time to ignition or melting versus heat flux data can be used for determining the textile TDU value. For example, Figure 1 shows that it takes approximately 5cal/cm2/sec heat flux for igniting denim textile listed in Table 1 within 3 seconds time interval. The TDU value for the denim fabric can be calculated by substituting the values for heat flux and time to ignition into Equation 4, and it is roughly equal to 3800(kW/m2)4/3 * sec. Behavior of the fabrics other than those listed in Table 1 during convective and radiant heating can be predicted using a simple test that can be quite easily reproduced in the field.
[ Read the whole article online at http://www.arcadvisor.com/faq/ignition-melting-characteristics-fabrics-textiles.html ]

"The 2015 edition of nfpa 70e no longer has a PPE Category 0, however my software still calculates Level 0. What am I missing?"

Indeed, the AFA V5.0 software does not show anywhere the term "PPE Category" or "Hazard Risk Category" (HRC). The program displays term "Level". The new NFPA 70E 2015 does not prohibit using the term "Level". As long as you don't call it "PPE Category" there should be nothing preventing you from doing so. Remember that not that long ago people were told not to mix HRC with incident energy. So they began to call it 1, 2, 3 and 4 PPE categories to get away from the term HRC. This time around the NFPA 70E  claimed ownership for the term "PPE category" that people moved to, and say you can't use that term with incident energy. Also, the NFPA Handbook shows a sample label with fields to be filled in for "Available Incident Energy" and "Level of PPE" while just half a page earlier states that "available incident energy" cannot be included with the "PPE category" in table 130.7(C)15(A)(b). It makes sense since the "Level of PPE" and "PPE Category" are technically two different terms.

Clicking on Settings menu, selecting Incident Energy at AFB and switching to Evaluated option will also prevent the Level 0 displayed on arc flash labels created using the AFA V5.0 program. Also, you can edit default site-specific PPE by clicking on Settings menu, selecting Site Specific PPE and making required changes.

MODELLING HRC FUSES FOR ARC FLASH ANALYSIS

IEEE 1584 Guide for Performing Arc Flash Calculations has established practice when modelling HRC fuses for arc flash analysis. The IEEE 1584 4.6 Step 5 reads "For fuses, the manufacturer's time-current curves may include both melting and clearing time. If so, use the clearing time. If they show only the average melt time, add to that time 15%, up to 0.03 seconds, and 10% above 0.03 seconds to determine total clearing time. If the arcing fault current is above the total clearing time at the bottom of the curve (0.01 seconds), use 0.01 seconds for the time". The opening time tolerances differ between fuse designs and the percentage of the overload relative to the amp rating. Incrementing the time according to IEEE 1584 guidelines should effectively compensate for the margin of error in published time-current curves in most cases.
[ Read more at http://www.arcflashforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=3653 ]

MORE SOFTWARE PROGRAMS AND SERVICES BY ARCAD INC

    Arc Flash Assessment and Labeling Software
    Arc Flash Mobile Apps
    Short Circuit Calculation Software
    Label Printing Services.

Did you know that we are now on Facebook? We are updating regularly so we invite you to take a look and stay up-to-date by liking or following our Facebook page. Choose to "Friend" or "Like" us and be instantly notified when we release new product or service or post special deals and announcements.

Tuesday, March 17, 2015

Issue #26 - Behavior of Apparel Fabrics during Convective and Radiant Heating


This week is March Break in Canada. Springtime around the world is traditionally observed as a time of renewal. we hope you have an opportunity to engage in some needed spring cleaning such as catching up on some long-delayed project or chore at work or at home, or simply taking a few moments to take stock of your goals. However you plan to spend spring break, we wish you an enjoyable time and an opportunity to focus on yourself, family and friends. We would also like to take this opportunity to update you on arc flash news and ARCAD INC. solutions addressing the matter.

BEHAVIOR OF APPAREL FABRICS DURING CONVECTIVE AND RADIANT HEATING

Personal protective equipment (PPE) recommended for arc flash is not always designed for arc flash exposure. The purpose of this paper and accompanying online calculator is to warn of the dangers posed by using the improper materials in arc flash exposures until standards have caught up on this issue. NFPA 70E allows flammable clothing with a fabric weight at least 4.5 oz/yd^2 ( > 0.16kg/m^2) to be worn when working on tasks stated low risk. Stating a task as low risk and allowing the use of apparel fabrics may lead to severe injuries and fatalities from clothing ignitions in arc flash incidents. The NFPA 70E based arc flash analysis fails to consider the variable nature of onset to second degree burn energy on bare skin. Also, there seem to be issues in NFPA 70E when the standard calculation procedure for determining arc flash boundaries allowing flammable clothing to be worn in situations that could result in ignition of the clothing.
[ Read more ]

CUSTOM LABEL GENERATION AND PRINTING SERVICES


ARCAD INC. offers many options of custom printed arc flash labels. Our vinyl labels are 100% waterproof and are suitable for use on equipment that will be subjected to wet or humid environments. We use UV resistant paints that withstand the heavy wear and tear ordinarily inflicted by the Sun. Send us your data and we will create a free sample label accommodating your special requirements and send it to you for your approval along with job quotations.

Tuesday, February 10, 2015

Issue #25 - Fuse equations for arc flash analysis, changes to safety standards and referral program.

These are some of the latest topics on various aspects of arc flash you may find interesting:

IEEE 1584 FUSE EQUATIONS

IEEE 1584-2002 provides formulae for calculating arc-flash energies for use with current-limiting Class L and Class RK1 fuses. What is the manufacturer of the fuses used to develop the formulas in IEEE 1584? Do the formulas apply for 440V 50Hz? Check the link below for answers to these and more fuse related questions:
http://www.arcflashforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=3610

MOTOR CONTRIBUTION

How to quantify the time that should be entered for the duration of motor contribution into an arcing fault?
http://www.arcflashforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=3577

NEW GRAPHICS PER THE 2015 NFPA 70E


In the past, the images that include the prohibited approach boundary were used for arc flash labeling. Since the NFPA has discontinued use of the prohibited approach boundary definition, it is recommended to bring arc flash hazard labels up to date with the terminology in the  standard. Check the link below for an example of image with only the limited and restricted approach boundaries along with the arc flash boundary shown and accompanying discussion:
http://www.arcflashforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=30&t=3601

2015 NFPA 70E CHANGES

The new 2015 Edition of NFPA 70E has been recently released. The following is an article listing the major changes for the 2015 edition. It was originally published in the May 2014 issue of Electrical Contractor Magazine and is provided here as a resource for your use:
http://arcflashforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=34&t=3443

2015 CSA Z462 CHANGES

CSA Z462-15 has just been published and is now available on the CSA On-line Store. The following is an overview of the major revisions to the 2015 edition:
http://www.arcadvisor.com/faq/what-is-new-in-CSA-Z462-year-2015-edition.html

ARCAD's arc flash calculation software program has been updated in order to conform to the new NFPA 70E and CSA Z462 standards. The most important changes and new program features are listed below:

  • Nominal system voltage for shock hazard assessment has been revised reflecting changes to NFPA 70E table 130.4(c)(a)
  • All references to the prohibited approach boundary have been deleted throughout the standard and the AFA V5.0 program. Once the restricted approach boundary was crossed, there were no other requirements in the NFPA 70E 2015 edition.
  • All label layouts and terminology have been rearranged to meet the new standard requirements.
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) recommendations displayed on labels created using the program can be reviewed, edited or reset to default values. The feature will let you making necessarily PPE adjustments required for various tasks in English and a variety of other languages. Also, the PPE requirements in new NFPA 70E standard have changed from previous editions of the standard. They may become different again and the feature will let you make changes as the safety standard evolves without the need to purchase new program.
  • The program is now memorizing selected label style (including label size, text color, style), optional extra line title, value etc.
Download free the new AFA V5.0.8:
http://www.arcadvisor.com/arcflash/arc-flash-software-v5.html

HOW TO MAKE MONEY THROUGH ARCAD'S REFER-A-FRIEND PROGRAM

Are you a satisfied ARCAD's customer and you know anyone looking for an arc flash, short circuit analysis software program and/or label printing services? Shout about ARCAD! You will earn money by referring them to us. Also, your referrals will get a rebate on their purchase. Indeed, it's a Win-Win situation all around. We are always on the look out for new customers. The majority of our customers have always come from referrals. Because of this, ARCAD has recently set up a referral program to remunerate you for your efforts and reward your referrals for following your recommendations:
http://www.arcadvisor.com/faq/referral-program.html