The main findings of this research were:
* IEEE 1584 is the predominate calculation method for spot networks with utilities assuming either an 18 or 24-inch 45.7 or 61.0-cm working distance.
* Many utilities are de-energizing the feeder for spot network work. This reduces fault current and energized buswork in protectors. Note that they are not operating a primary-side, oil switch.
* Work is manageable in many spot networks with heavy arc suits. 100 cal/cm2 suits are common.
* Utilities normally assume either a self-extraction time or assume that internal network protector fuses operate. Both assumptions allow work in many spot networks with available arc flash suits. Both assumptions also have disadvantages.
* External fuses or disconnects are a promising option to reduce incident energies and completely de-energize a network protector. These scenarios can be treated as open-air applications if the only exposure is line to ground.
For 480-V metering, several exploratory tests were performed on different meter styles to see if there were any units where the 20 cal/cm2 threshold would not apply. Tests showed that meters with significant internal busbar can have long durations and incident energies much higher than 20 cal/cm2.
Based on these new results, utilities should not work on 480-V meters with significant busbar that are energized without an analysis.