What are the causes of typical hazards in low-pressure systems?

Encyclopedia
09/27/2024

Low Voltage (LV) systems generally refer to electrical systems with operating voltages below 1000 volts (V) alternating current or 1500 volts direct current. Although low pressure systems are safer than high pressure systems, there are several potential hazards. Understanding these risk factors can help you take preventive measures to keep people and equipment safe. The following are common causes of danger in low-pressure systems:


Electrical injury


  • Electric shock: Direct contact with a live conductor or device can result in electric shock. Even low-voltage systems can cause serious electric shock damage to the human body.Indirect contact, such as contact with metal parts of broken insulation, can also trigger an electric shock.


  • Arc flashover: While less common than high-voltage systems, Arc Flash events in low-voltage systems can still occur, especially when equipment is aged or improperly maintained.



  • Arc flashover can produce high temperatures, bright lights, and explosive sounds that can cause serious burns and other injuries.


Equipment failure


  • Short circuit: A short circuit occurs when the current bypasses the load and flows directly from one end of the power supply to the other. This can cause damage to the equipment and even cause a fire.


  • Overload: Overload occurs when electrical equipment or lines carry more than their rated current. Overload can cause equipment to overheat and even start an electrical fire.


Improper maintenance


  • Insulation failure: Aging or damage to insulation materials can expose live parts and increase the risk of electric shock. Incorrect wiring or loose joints can also cause insulation failure.


  • Poor grounding: Inadequate or incorrect grounding (Earthing) can cause current to not flow efficiently to the ground, increasing the risk of electric shock.


Lack of safety awareness


  • Lack of training and knowledge: Workers who are not properly trained or do not understand electrical safety regulations can accidentally trigger accidents.


  • Ignoring security procedures: Ignoring Lockout/Tagout procedures or other security measures can lead to accidental device activation, which can cause accidents.



Environmental factor


  • Humid environment: In a humid environment, electrical equipment is more prone to short circuit or leakage accidents. Moisture can reduce insulation properties and increase the risk of electric shock.


  • Physical damage: External factors such as mechanical shock or vibration can cause wires to break or equipment to be damaged, leading to electrical failure.


Other factors


  • Overtemperature: The ambient temperature may overheat the electrical equipment, which may cause a fire.


  • Improper accessories: Using improper electrical accessories, such as mismatched fuses or circuit breakers, can cause equipment to malfunction or overheat.


Understanding these potential hazards in low-pressure systems and taking appropriate precautions (such as regular maintenance, training employees, following safety procedures, etc.) can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents and protect people and property.


Encyclopedia

The Electricity Encyclopedia is dedicated to accelerating the dissemination and application of electricity knowledge and adding impetus to the development and innovation of the electricity industry.

Effects of Electric Current on Human Body
Effects of Electric Current on Human Body
When an electrical current traverses the human body, the nervous system endures an electric shock. The severity of this shock predominantly hinges on three key factors: the magnitude of the current, the pathway the current follows through the body, and the duration of contact. In the most severe instances, the shock disrupts the normal functioning of the heart and lungs, potentially leading to unconsciousness or even death.It is generally accepted that currents below 5 milliamperes (mA) pose min
Edwiin
05/22/2025
What is Automatic Voltage Regulator?
What is Automatic Voltage Regulator?
An automatic voltage regulator is employed to regulate voltage, converting fluctuating voltages into a constant one. Voltage fluctuations mainly stem from variations in the load on the supply system. Such voltage variations can damage the equipment within the power system. These fluctuations can be mitigated by installing voltage - control equipment at various locations, such as near transformers, generators, and feeders. Multiple voltage regulators are often placed throughout the power system t
Edwiin
05/22/2025
What is Static Voltage Regulator?
What is Static Voltage Regulator?
Types of Static Voltage RegulatorThe static voltage regulator is superior to electromechanical regulators in respect of the accuracy of control, response, reliability and maintenance. The static voltage regulator is mainly classified into two types. They are;Servo Type Voltage RegulatorMagnetic Amplifier RegulatorThe types of static voltage regulator are described below in details;Servo Type Voltage RegulatorThe main feature of the servo type voltage regulator is the use of the amplidyne. The am
Edwiin
05/21/2025
What is Arc Extinction Circuit Breaker?
What is Arc Extinction Circuit Breaker?
When the current-carrying contacts of a circuit breaker separate, an arc forms and persists briefly after contact separation. This arc is hazardous due to the heat energy it generates, which can produce explosive forces.A circuit breaker must extinguish the arc without damaging equipment or endangering personnel. The arc significantly influences the breaker’s performance. Interrupting aDC arcis inherently more challenging than anAC arc. In an AC arc, the current naturally reaches zero duri
Edwiin
05/20/2025
Inquiry
Download
Experts Electrical is dedicated to serving the personnel in the global power industry.
Join Experts Electrical, not only can you discover power equipment and power knowledge, but also canhnd like - minded friends!