Protection concept against arc faults in the Charité Berlin

The Charité Mitte hospital building was extensively remodelled and completely renovated between January 2014 and November 2016. A complete overhaul of the electrical system also included the central low-voltage switchgear installation. Its failure, e.g. due to an arc fault, can cause considerable damage. All connected systems, including IT, can be affected and people can be seriously injured.

This is a danger that must be minimised, especially for the sensitive, networked and vital systems of a hospital. In order to maximise system availability and ensure the safety of technicians, protective measures are therefore essential components of the protection concept.

To meet these demanding challenges, Klampfer relies on the DEHNshort arc fault protection system, which is optimised for low-voltage switchgear installations. This consists of:

• fibre-optic light sensors that detect the arc fault,
• modular recording devices that process the signals,
• quenching devices that quench the arc faults quickly and safely.

Arc faults are detected and eliminated as soon as they occur. The capability of the protection concept enables the affected switchgear to be recommissioned quickly. Long downtimes and the associated follow-up costs can be minimised.