Saftronics are licensed as one of a few worldwide Siemens SIVACON Technology Partners to manufacturer the half and quarter-sized withdrawable IEC 61439 Motor Control Centres in addition to the existing range of SIVACON S8 series.

The SIVACON S8 allows a maximum of 48 – motor controllers in a single vertical section, dramatically reducing the footprint needed for critical applications where space is at a premium.

Saftronics can customize the SIVACON to your special requirements and also offers a full range of complementary products.

For further information contact Paul Stead, Head of Sales & Marketing paul.stead@saftronics.co.uk Tel: +44 (0) 113 245 7170

An arc flash happens when electric current flows through an air gap between conductors.

The fault current magnetic fields make conductors separate, producing an arc. In other words, arc fault is caused by uncontrolled conduction of electrical current from phase to ground, phase to neutral, and/or phase to phase accompanied by ionization of the surrounding air. Because of the expansive vaporization of conductive metal, a line-to-line or line-to-ground arcing fault can escalate into a three-phase arcing fault in less than a 1/1000 of a second. The heat energy and intense light at the point of the arc is called arc flash.

Accidents caused by touching a test probe to the wrong surface or slipped tool are the most common cause of an arcing fault.

Arc flashes can also be caused by:

Human error

Unfortunately, 80% of accidents are caused by human error – exposed live parts, misplaced tools, earthing fuses, improper installation of parts, wire wrapped around busbars, accidents during testing or fault-finding.

Mechanical faults

Loose parts, parts that break and fail, worn or broken conductor installation, loose wire connections, sparks due to breaks or gaps in the insulation, overheating of connections, busbar splices.

The elements

Dust, corrosion or other impurities on the surface of the conductor, water, oil, grease, water or liquid near electrical equipment, static electricity.

The SIVACON S8 that we manufacture is tested in accordance with IEC 61641 thus restricting the effects of arcing faults.