Enhancing efficiency of arc flash simulation in switchgear: transitioning from 3D to 1D model using Matlab Simulink-Simscape

The conventional 3D simulation model for simulating arc flash has difficulties in achieving conformity with actual test data and requires long analysis times. To address these issues, this paper proposes replacing the existing 3D simulation model with a 1D simulation model using Matlab Simulink / Simscape. An arc test of 40[kA] was conducted on a Metal-Clad-Switchgear(MCSG) to obtain test data for comparison with the simulation results. The MCSG is a Two-High structure consisting of CB(Circuit Breaker) Top/Bottom Comp.(Compartment), Cable Top/Bottom Comp., and Bus Comp., with pressure sensors attached at specific locations in each compartment. A three-phase short-circuit accident was simulated in the CB Top Comp. by connecting the phases with metal wires. The entire process for verifying the effectiveness of the 1D simulation model is shown in Figure 1. The verification process in this paper is divided into two major steps, with validation performed by comparing the pressure values obtained at each step.