Introducing EVs and the DC Hazard
As the electric vehicle (EV) market continues to grow, so does the importance of understanding the potential hazards associated with direct current (DC) electrical systems. That's why Tyndale is proud to launch our new educational series, EVs and the DC Hazard. Whether you are a battery manufacturer, work in battery replacement and storage, or install and maintain charging stations, this series is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of electrical safety in the age of electric vehicles.
What to Expect
First up, our host Scott Margolin, Vice President of Technical at Tyndale, will break down the key differences between alternating current (AC) arcs and DC arcs. But that’s just the beginning. You’ll get to witness the first-ever live video demonstration of DC arcs and compare them to their AC counterparts.
Next, we’ll dive deeper into the world of DC arc flashes and explore how they can impact workers exposed to them. Using real-world video footage of DC arc flashes – the first of its kind, you’ll see firsthand the devastating power of these electrical hazards and how they can cause serious harm, or worse, to workers who are not properly protected.
Join Scott Margolin as we compare and contrast AC and DC arcs, witness the devastating impact of wearing insufficient garments in face of a DC arc flash hazard, and examine critical role that proper arc-rated (AR) clothing plays in ensuring electrical safety in the rapidly-evolving world of electric vehicles.
Episodes:
Episode 1: AC vs DC Arcs: What’s the Difference?
Visually compare an AC arc to a DC arc with help of a split screen and super-slow-motion footage, which enables you to clearly see the significant difference. Using the same gear with the same amperage, voltage, and duration, you’ll get a clear visual of how these arc flash incidents differ.
Watch Episode 1
Episode 2: Poly/Cotton Workwear in DC Arc
This video demonstrates that poly/cotton is easily and immediately ignited and continues to burn in a DC arc – requiring no more energy for ignition than an AC arc. Does DC require less energy than its AC counterpart to ignite? We put that question to the test too.
Watch Episode 2
Episode 3: Cotton Workwear in DC Arc
Can a DC arc flash ignite flammable 100% cotton workwear, and does it require any more or less energy to do so? This video demonstrates just how quickly and easily cotton ignites and continues to burn in a DC arc. No more energy is required for ignition than an AC arc, and you’ll witness just how difficult cotton fires are to extinguish.
Watch Episode 3
Episode 4: NSA TECGEN® CAT 2 in DC Arc
How do popular AR garments perform in DC arcs at or near their arc ratings? This video shows an arc-rated NSA TECGEN® shirt and AR jeans in a 7.7 cal arc. While we observed slightly more damage to the shirt, garment performance and appearance are on par with an AC arc of the same incident energy.
Watch Episode 4
Episode 5: FRMC® CAT 2 in DC Arc
We wanted to see how common AR garments perform in DC arcs at or near their arc ratings. This video shows a popular Tyndale FRMC® shirt and FRMC® jeans in a 9.4 cal arc. While we observed slightly more damage to the shirt, garment performance and appearance are on par with an AC arc of the same incident energy.
Watch Episode 5
Episode 6: EBT AR Garment Exposed Above Arc Rating
This video shows an AR shirt with an EBT arc rating of 9.1 cals exposed to a DC arc that’s almost 13 calories. Is there is more or less breakopen compared to AC arcs of the same energy when hit with more energy than it is rated to take? Tune in for the results.
Watch Episode 6
Episode 7: 88/12 CAT 2 Coverall in DC Arc
How do popular AR garments perform in DC arcs at or near their arc ratings? This video shows an Ultrasoft Coverall in a 9 cal DC arc. You’ll notice garment performance and appearance were on par with an AC arc of the same incident energy.
Watch Episode 7
Episode 8: Enespro 40 cal Suit in DC Arc
We set out to understand how popular AR garments perform in DC arcs at or near their arc ratings. This video shows an NSA Enespro 40 cal suit in a 27 cal DC arc. While we observed slightly more damage to the coat, garment performance and appearance are on par with an AC arc of the same incident energy.
Watch Episode 8
Episode 9: 88/12 Outerwear in DC Arc
We tested several AR garments to see how common AR garments perform in DC arcs at or near their arc ratings. This video shows a popular Tyndale 88/12 jacket in a 14 cal DC arc. How does it perform in this real-world test? While we observed slightly more damage to the coat, garment performance and appearance are on par with an AC arc of the same incident energy.
Watch Episode 9
Episode 10: Non-AR Hi-Vis Vest & Outerwear in DC Arc
We tested a flammable hi-vis vest and outerwear to expose shocking details that even the most seasoned professionals may not be aware of. From the instantaneous ignition of the vest to the relentless threat of reignition, this video shows every step of this hazardous journey, unraveled before your eyes. Witness firsthand the dangerous situation of wearing fuel, illustrating the severity of the consequences.
Watch Episode 10Each of these videos make excellent training aids to emphasize the importance of wearing AR clothing – and wearing it properly.
Learning From These Mistakes
At Tyndale we are proud to protect the brave men and women like YOU who are driven to keep our country running, and dedicated to creating products, services, and training resources that ensure you return home safely to your family each night.
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Questions about DC Arcs and Electric Vehicles? Ask Us!
If you have any queries related to DC arcs, we encourage you to reach out to our marketing department by emailing MarketingInfo@TyndaleUSA.com or directly contact our VP of Technical. As industry experts, we're always available to provide answers and insights.
