Panduit's VeriSafe 2.0 AVT system eliminates the risk of arc flash by confirming that any electrical cabinet is de-energized before allowing access. The surface mounted indicator module will indicate when it is safe to access a panel (by means of a green light indicator) and when it is unsafe to access a panel (by means of a red light indicator), prior to opening the panel, eliminating risk to plant operators, machine builders and onsite engineers/electricians. The Panduit VeriSafe AVT system can be combined with a door interlock system so that the panel doors cannot be opened unless the test has been carried out and “green light status” achieved.
The traditional method for testing for presence of voltage is to
• Dress in correct Personal Protection Equipment (PPE)
• Turn off the panel
• Open the panel
• Verify the traditional portable tester
• Test the panel for voltage
• Re-verify the tester
• Then, if safe, perform necessary work.
This process has two major setbacks. Firstly, this entire process can take around 10 minutes to perform and secondly, a number of the steps take place after the panel has been opened.
The Panduit VeriSafe AVT ensures the absence of voltage by using the following process
• Turn off the panel
• Push the button on the VeriSafe Indicator Module (located on the outside of the panel)
• When the green light indicates, open the panel, it is now safe.
This method has two of major benefits,
1. The panel is not opened until AFTER it is confirmed that the panel is de-energized (eliminating risk / improving safety),
2. This entire process takes approximately 10 seconds (compared to the traditional 10 minutes, increasing productivity).
Despite the simplicity of its use, the VeriSafe Absence of Voltage Tester performs a number of complex tasks
• The system confirms power is available to perform the test
• Checks health of key circuit elements
• Verifies threshold circuits in tolerance
• Checks on known voltage source
• Verifies connectivity
• Verifies voltage is under 3V threshold
As well as eliminating risk and improving productivity the Panduit Absence of Voltage Tester meets with various standards
• VeriSafe AVT safety functions meet SIL 3 (IEC 61508-1), as well as redundant channels for measurement and detection.
• Panduit’s VeriSafe AVT satisfies the criteria in NFPA 70E 120.5(7) Exception 1 & CSA Z462 4.2.5 (g) Exception 2, and UL 1436 listing.
VeriSafe 2.0, automatically ensures that the entire test process is followed for every single test. With a push of a button, users can achieve tested safety in both 3-phase and single-phase applications in the extended voltage range up to 1000V for AC and DC applications.
VeriSafe 2.0 is ideal for 480/600V CAT IV applications including outdoor, service access and all power distribution equipment including frequency converters and remote motor disconnect switches.
If desired, the isolation module can be easily integrated into control systems via redundant semiconductor signal outputs (SIL 3).
In addition, a network module for real-time diagnostics and performance reports is available. Thus, test results can be recorded with time stamps or data logs, or it can also be used for remote troubleshooting, monitoring the status of sensor lines as well as battery life or temperature development.
Via the EtherNet/IP and Modbus TCP connection, VeriSafe 2.0 can be easily integrated into Scada systems, for example, or the integrated web server can be used.