1000 amp DC breaker

[TheJed]

Hello all,

Please see the attached picture of this 1000 amp breaker that was installed in an open frame as part of a -48vdc plant.
It does appear to have a plastic shield of some sort over the exposed lug connection points.

Does this approach align with the NEC code for mounting breakers?

I am concerned this is a safety issue.

Thanks for any input.
Jed-

 

[petersonra]

Hello all,

Please see the attached picture of this 1000 amp breaker that was installed in an open frame as part of a -48vdc plant.
It does appear to have a plastic shield of some sort over the exposed lug connection points.

Does this approach align with the NEC code for mounting breakers?

I am concerned this is a safety issue.

Thanks for any input.
Jed-

View attachment 21319

I don't recall there is anything in the code about how to mount a breaker. That would be a design consideration, or a UL listing issue perhaps.

Is 48 VDC considered hazardous where this is installed?

Is it otherwise guarded by a fence or locked doors, or some other effective physical means?

Is it under the control of a utility?

What makes you think it might be a safety issue?

personally, i would be most concerned about whether there was an adequate fault clearing path. I can't tell if there is one. A battery string can put out a LOT of current.

 

[qcroanoke]

I would say being 50 volts or less gets you some relief but I don't know how much as far as guarding and protection goes.

 

[petersonra]

I would say being 50 volts or less gets you some relief but I don't know how much as far as guarding and protection goes.

I seem to recall the NFPA70E limit is 50 volts for whether there is an electrocution hazard. I think it is lower in IEC jurisdictions.