HVDC Help - ECN Electrical Forums

Just received this in an e-mail:

Quote

Hi
I am working on some safe working procedures for High Tension Roll Separators which have 33kv DC connections, I am looking for information on jump distances, effect on the body if you come in contact etc. any help appreciated

Dennis

Anyone care to wade in on this one?.

Well, from "playing" with a 100kV hipot, 33kV DC will only jump about 2", however all of the NFPA 70E approach distances apply. I am not saying it is safe to be 2" away! 70E Distances LAB=5', RAB=2'7", PAB=10".

The RAB is derived from the OSHA approach distances that have a 2' "buffer" zone, so they are implying that it will jump 7".

33kV DC would probally not cause ventricular fibrilation but rather travel across the skin causing serious 3rd degree burns, it would be ugly.

I recommend you read Rapheal Lee's papers for more information.

Hi there Zog,
The guy that sent me the above email never did get back to me so I don't know if he actually got the info he was after.
I told him I worked with HVAC (that's High Voltage AC, not the other one), but I do know there is a big difference in the switchgear and equipment. [Linked Image]