This was discussed here several years ago but I didn't see a clear answer.

We are dealing with complex systems that require evaluation for multiple operating scenarios (transfer switches, tie breakers, etc.). We currently use SKM Powertools, as is required by some of our clients. SKM is not capable of running multiple scenario systems with reduction mode active (confirmed by their support group). Currently I have to say that we have no way to produce incident energy calculations for arc energy reduction mode.

How are others handling this? Are there any other software packages than can run worst-case scenarios in arc energy reduction mode?

Thanks,

One other thing, on new designs, I've often found that maintenance mode doesn't help much or any at all. Especially if the construction of the switchboard or panel is such you have to use the line side of main for the IE calc.

Even if the main section is barriered or you are using ArcBlok technology or other technology maintenance mode often won't help much unless you have built-in delays in your instantaneous setting on your main in normal operation for coordination reasons.

Of course, there are nearly unlimited scenarios possible with different types of construction and mitigation techniques and coordination requirements. Sometimes maintenance mode may indeed help a lot.

Thanks for the input on this. I had not thought about creating a separate set of breakers with maintenance mode settings. That's not a bad idea if there is just one or a few. The systems I'm dealing with have numerous breakers with maintenance mode capability. They are connected to a central control system that enables MM for all breakers concurrently, or they can be controlled locally, individually. As you mention that seems to create a nearly infinite number of permutations. We could just run the case where they are all in maintenance mode I suppose.