Ultimately the installation of IR Sightglasses, as with the use of any PPE, is a method to reduce the risk associated with a specific task.
The Merrium-Webster Dictionary defines Risk as “The possibility of loss or injury” and the installation of an IR Sightglass certainly helps in reduction, however we must utilise the different optic options available in the most suitable end-use requirements in order to properly quantify “risk”.
Since Arc-flash radiant energy is not solely voltage dependant, it is not correct to place a voltage related restriction on the selection of IR Sightglass optics except under circumstances where the voltage level is insufficient to strike and/or maintain an Arc.
Click here to see a selection matrix detailing how to correctly select a minimum IR Sightglass optic material based upon Arc-Flash protection end-use requirements and host equipment specifications.
Correct Testing of Infrared Sightglass Optic and Fixing Method
As a minimum, IR Sightglasses should be tested for their ability to withstand end-use requirement forces, which have been demonstrated as Arc-flash effect.
In relation to IR Sightglasses, there are three primary effects of an electric arc-flash that must be considered and tested in order for the Sightglass to be suitable for use a true risk reduction and injury mitigation tool.
- Static internal pressure increase,
- Dynamic “thermoacoustic” wave effects,
- Heat-flux effects,
Without an Arc-Flash test it is impossible to determine risk associated with using an IR Window type device. As such devices without an arc-test must be assumed to be fallible and full PPE should still be applied.
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