Maximizing Power Systems (Including Data Centers), Reliability, and Safety Using New Technologies - 2 PDHs
Webinar / $80 member; $105 non-member / 11:00am - 1:00pm, ET
April 23, 2025

NYSSPE has partnered with Sem-Train, LLC -  New York State Approved Sponsor


This course will cover the application of three different technologies.  This includes ultra-fast grounding switches which detect and kills an arc flash incident in 4 milliseconds.  This encompasses incident energy calculations, and the factors considered in IEEE 1584 2018.  Examples of electrode configurations, orientation, and calorimeter positioning will be explained.  Also, arc flash boundaries and arc flash mitigating techniques will be detailed.    

The second technology is the electronically triggered fault current limiter (ET-FCL).  This device can detect and interrupt a circuit in 0.6 milliseconds, as compared to a three- cycle circuit breaker which trips in 50 milliseconds, thus avoiding equipment damage  and serious injuries.   

The third technology is the transient-free capacitor switch which avoids creating overvoltage, inrush current, and the possibility of restriking during the process of opening the switch. 


Syllabus  

Arc Flash, How Big is the Problem? 

Best Way to Understand Arc Flash, Arc Energy = Volts X Amps X Time 

Arc Flash Calculations 

Incident Energy is a Function of Six Factors 

Summary of Factors Considered in IEEE 1584 2018 

Electrode Configuration – Five Types 

Electrode Orientation Impacts Hazard Level 

Electrode Configuration/Calorimeter Positioning 

Arc Flash Boundaries 

Mitigating Arc Flash Risk Hazards 

Why Mitigate Arc Flash Hazards? 

Single-line Diagram – Where to install Mitigating Devices? 

Four Methods for Controlling Risks 

Reducing Fault Current 

Ultra-fast Grounding Switch Type and Light Detection Device 

Three-line Diagram – Medium Voltage Solution 

Light Detection Protection 

Feeder Application  


Speaker: Samy Faried, PE

1. Licensed Professional Engineer with over 30 years of experience in engineering, electrical system analysis and design (120V -500KV), specifications, project and construction management, and domestic and international business development.
2. Experience encompasses arc flash regulation and mitigation, training colleagues and junior engineers, distribution, generator circuit breakers, and switchgear applications based on latest standards
3. Competent in tying electrical system to maximize reliability and safety using current limiters and ultra-fast grounding switches, and applications of transient free capacitor switches.  
4. Holds three degrees in Electrical Engineering/Business Administration.
5. Former Adjunct Professor at Brown University, Northeastern University, Boston University, and the University of Central Florida.
6. Effective ability to simplify technical issues for management personnel, lineman, insurance companies, laymen, and jurors.  This included explaining basics of volts, amps, impedance, kilowatt hour, arc flash, and effects of electric shock on the human body.
7. Authored and presented technical and safety articles at the Institute of the Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), Doble Engineering, and Power and Incident Prevention Magazine. I am qualified as Continuing Education Provider. 
8. Authored safety programs and trained staff on mitigating hazards during inspections and provided Inspection and Test Plans.  Provided guidance for OSHA Regulations, NFPA70 and 70E.
9. Expert in application of circuit breakers, switchgear, distribution panels, and substations.  The selection focused on maximizing reliability and best economic and safety alternatives.  Applications included using gas-insulated switchgear, current limiters, ultra-fast grounding switches, and introduced the topic of digital switchgear.