Quick Overview
- 1#1: ETAP - Provides comprehensive arc flash hazard analysis, labeling, and incident energy calculations compliant with IEEE 1584 and NFPA 70E standards.
- 2#2: EasyPower - Delivers fast and intuitive arc flash calculations with automatic labeling and reporting for electrical power systems.
- 3#3: SKM Power*Tools - Offers detailed arc flash studies, short-circuit analysis, and protective device coordination in an integrated power system software suite.
- 4#4: DIgSILENT PowerFactory - Performs advanced arc flash risk assessments and power system simulations with high accuracy for utility-scale applications.
- 5#5: CYME - Supports arc flash analysis integrated with distribution system planning and protection coordination tools.
- 6#6: Synergi Electric - Enables enterprise-level arc flash hazard evaluation within a full power system modeling and analysis platform.
- 7#7: CDEGS - Conducts electromagnetic field simulations for precise arc flash, grounding, and lightning protection studies.
- 8#8: ElectroBIM - Cloud-based tool for arc flash hazard calculations integrated with BIM models for building electrical systems.
- 9#9: Urja Enterprise - Performs IEEE 1584 compliant arc flash calculations with automated label generation for industrial facilities.
- 10#10: EDSA PowerAnalytics - Provides arc flash analysis as part of holistic power system design, simulation, and reliability modeling.
These tools were ranked by evaluating technical capabilities (including compliance, simulation precision, and integration), user-friendliness, scalability, and overall value, ensuring they meet the needs of industries from utilities to commercial facilities.
Comparison Table
Arc flash software is essential for designing safe electrical systems, and this comparison table features top tools like ETAP, EasyPower, SKM Power*Tools, DIgSILENT PowerFactory, CYME, and more to help users evaluate capabilities and make informed selection decisions.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ETAP Provides comprehensive arc flash hazard analysis, labeling, and incident energy calculations compliant with IEEE 1584 and NFPA 70E standards. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | EasyPower Delivers fast and intuitive arc flash calculations with automatic labeling and reporting for electrical power systems. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | SKM Power*Tools Offers detailed arc flash studies, short-circuit analysis, and protective device coordination in an integrated power system software suite. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | DIgSILENT PowerFactory Performs advanced arc flash risk assessments and power system simulations with high accuracy for utility-scale applications. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 5 | CYME Supports arc flash analysis integrated with distribution system planning and protection coordination tools. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Synergi Electric Enables enterprise-level arc flash hazard evaluation within a full power system modeling and analysis platform. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | CDEGS Conducts electromagnetic field simulations for precise arc flash, grounding, and lightning protection studies. | specialized | 8.0/10 | 9.0/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | ElectroBIM Cloud-based tool for arc flash hazard calculations integrated with BIM models for building electrical systems. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 9 | Urja Enterprise Performs IEEE 1584 compliant arc flash calculations with automated label generation for industrial facilities. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 10 | EDSA PowerAnalytics Provides arc flash analysis as part of holistic power system design, simulation, and reliability modeling. | enterprise | 7.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 6.3/10 | 6.8/10 |
Provides comprehensive arc flash hazard analysis, labeling, and incident energy calculations compliant with IEEE 1584 and NFPA 70E standards.
Delivers fast and intuitive arc flash calculations with automatic labeling and reporting for electrical power systems.
Offers detailed arc flash studies, short-circuit analysis, and protective device coordination in an integrated power system software suite.
Performs advanced arc flash risk assessments and power system simulations with high accuracy for utility-scale applications.
Supports arc flash analysis integrated with distribution system planning and protection coordination tools.
Enables enterprise-level arc flash hazard evaluation within a full power system modeling and analysis platform.
Conducts electromagnetic field simulations for precise arc flash, grounding, and lightning protection studies.
Cloud-based tool for arc flash hazard calculations integrated with BIM models for building electrical systems.
Performs IEEE 1584 compliant arc flash calculations with automated label generation for industrial facilities.
Provides arc flash analysis as part of holistic power system design, simulation, and reliability modeling.
ETAP
enterpriseProvides comprehensive arc flash hazard analysis, labeling, and incident energy calculations compliant with IEEE 1584 and NFPA 70E standards.
Star Auto-Evaluation engine for one-click arc flash hazard analysis across entire systems with dynamic scenario evaluation
ETAP is a leading comprehensive electrical power system analysis software suite with advanced arc flash modules for hazard assessment and mitigation. It performs IEEE 1584-2018 compliant calculations to determine incident energy, arc flash boundaries, fault currents, and required PPE levels across single-line and detailed equipment models. The software integrates arc flash analysis seamlessly with short-circuit, protective coordination, load flow, and transient studies for holistic power system safety and compliance with NFPA 70E.
Pros
- IEEE 1584-2018 and NFPA 70E compliant arc flash calculations with equipment-specific accuracy
- Seamless integration with full power system modules for coordinated studies and automated workflows
- Extensive libraries of protective devices, cables, and equipment for rapid, realistic modeling
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive feature depth and customizable interface
- High licensing costs, especially for full modular suites
- Resource-intensive for very large systems, requiring powerful hardware
Best For
Professional electrical engineers and consultants in industrial, utility, and large commercial facilities needing integrated, enterprise-level arc flash and power system analysis.
Pricing
Quote-based modular licensing; annual subscriptions start around $15,000+, perpetual licenses $30,000+ depending on modules and users.
EasyPower
enterpriseDelivers fast and intuitive arc flash calculations with automatic labeling and reporting for electrical power systems.
Star® AutoEvaluation mode, which overlays protective device time-current curves, sequence-of-events, and arc flash results directly on the one-line diagram for unparalleled integrated analysis.
EasyPower is a comprehensive electrical power systems analysis software suite from EAS, specializing in arc flash hazard studies compliant with IEEE 1584-2018 and NFPA 70E standards. It enables users to model power systems via an intelligent one-line diagram, perform accurate incident energy calculations, determine arc flash boundaries, and generate labeling reports. Beyond arc flash, it integrates short-circuit analysis, protective device coordination, and motor starting in a unified platform for efficient engineering workflows.
Pros
- Highly accurate IEEE 1584 arc flash calculations with equipment-specific modeling
- Integrated Star mode for simultaneous coordination, TCCs, and arc flash visualization
- Automated report generation and label printing for compliance
Cons
- High cost limits accessibility for small firms
- Steep learning curve for advanced integrated features
- Windows-only compatibility
Best For
Electrical engineers in industrial, utility, and commercial facilities requiring integrated arc flash, coordination, and system analysis.
Pricing
Enterprise subscription or perpetual licenses starting at $5,000+ per user annually; volume discounts and quotes required.
SKM Power*Tools
enterpriseOffers detailed arc flash studies, short-circuit analysis, and protective device coordination in an integrated power system software suite.
Unified platform integrating arc flash with short circuit, coordination, and harmonic analysis from a single system model
SKM Power*Tools is a comprehensive electrical power system analysis software suite from SKM Systems Analysis, featuring robust arc flash hazard analysis compliant with IEEE 1584-2018 and NFPA 70E standards. It enables users to build detailed one-line diagrams, calculate incident energy, arc flash boundaries, and PPE requirements while integrating with short circuit, load flow, and coordination modules for holistic system studies. The software supports both DC and AC arc flash calculations, equipment labeling reports, and scenario-based what-if analyses for enhanced safety assessments.
Pros
- Highly accurate IEEE 1584-compliant arc flash calculations with extensive equipment libraries
- Seamless integration across multiple analysis modules like short circuit and coordination
- Advanced reporting tools for labels, boundaries, and compliance documentation
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and workflow
- Dated user interface compared to modern competitors
- High upfront cost with modular pricing structure
Best For
Experienced electrical engineers and consultants managing large-scale industrial or utility power systems requiring integrated multi-study analysis.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $10,000+ for core modules including arc flash, with additional modules extra; annual maintenance ~15-20% of license cost.
DIgSILENT PowerFactory
enterprisePerforms advanced arc flash risk assessments and power system simulations with high accuracy for utility-scale applications.
Deep integration of arc flash calculations with full power system simulations for accurate, model-consistent hazard assessments
DIgSILENT PowerFactory is a comprehensive power system analysis software that includes an integrated Arc Flash module for hazard assessment per IEEE 1584-2018 and other standards like IEC 60909. It enables detailed short-circuit calculations, incident energy determination, and arc flash boundary labeling directly within a full network model. This makes it suitable for utilities and industrial users needing holistic power system studies alongside arc flash compliance.
Pros
- Seamless integration of arc flash with load flow, protection, and dynamic simulations
- Supports multiple international standards including IEEE 1584 and NF EN 50341
- Powerful for large-scale networks with advanced visualization and reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and extensive features
- High licensing costs make it less accessible for small firms
- Overkill for users focused solely on arc flash without broader power analysis needs
Best For
Power system engineers at large utilities or industrial plants requiring integrated arc flash hazard analysis within comprehensive network modeling.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing starts at approximately €20,000-€50,000 per seat depending on modules; annual maintenance extra; quote required.
CYME
enterpriseSupports arc flash analysis integrated with distribution system planning and protection coordination tools.
Advanced handling of unbalanced networks and harmonics in arc flash calculations for more precise results in real-world distribution systems
CYME, developed by Eaton, is a comprehensive power system analysis software suite with a dedicated Arc Flash module for performing IEEE 1584-2018 compliant hazard analysis on distribution and transmission networks. It calculates incident energy, arc flash boundaries, and required PPE levels while integrating seamlessly with load flow, short-circuit, and protection coordination tools. The software supports detailed equipment modeling and scenario analysis for industrial, utility, and commercial electrical systems.
Pros
- IEEE 1584-2018 compliant calculations with support for unbalanced systems and harmonics
- Deep integration with other CYME modules for holistic power system studies
- Extensive equipment libraries and automated report/label generation
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and extensive features
- High cost with quote-based enterprise licensing
- Primarily desktop-based with limited cloud or collaborative features
Best For
Large utilities, industrial facilities, and engineering firms needing integrated arc flash analysis within full power system modeling.
Pricing
Quote-based; perpetual licenses with annual maintenance (typically $10,000+ per seat depending on modules and users).
Synergi Electric
enterpriseEnables enterprise-level arc flash hazard evaluation within a full power system modeling and analysis platform.
Seamless integration of arc flash results with protective relay coordination and system reliability modules for holistic safety assessments
Synergi Electric, developed by DNV, is a comprehensive electrical power system analysis software that includes advanced arc flash hazard assessment capabilities compliant with IEEE 1584-2018 standards. It calculates incident energy, arc flash boundaries, and required PPE levels for both AC and DC systems, while integrating seamlessly with load flow, short-circuit, and protective device coordination analyses. Ideal for modeling complex radial and looped networks, it supports safety studies in utilities and industrial settings.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy in arc flash calculations for large, meshed networks
- Integrated suite combining arc flash with load flow, short circuit, and coordination
- Supports IEEE 1584-2018, NFPA 70E, and DC arc flash modeling
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and extensive features
- High cost, better suited for enterprises than small firms
- Resource-heavy for very large models, requiring powerful hardware
Best For
Large utilities, industrial plants, and engineering firms needing integrated power system analysis with robust arc flash hazard studies.
Pricing
Enterprise licensing with annual subscriptions starting at $10,000+, customized based on modules, users, and support.
CDEGS
specializedConducts electromagnetic field simulations for precise arc flash, grounding, and lightning protection studies.
Grounding grid impedance modeling directly influences arc flash incident energy calculations for unparalleled accuracy in non-ideal earthing conditions
CDEGS (Current Distribution, Electromagnetic Fields, Grounding and Soil Analysis) from SES is a sophisticated engineering software suite renowned for grounding system design and analysis, with dedicated modules like ARCFACTS for arc flash hazard studies. It performs IEEE 1584-2018 compliant calculations, NFPA 70E boundary determinations, and incident energy assessments, uniquely incorporating detailed grounding grid impedances and soil resistivity effects into arc flash modeling. This integration allows for more precise fault current and arc energy predictions in complex systems compared to standalone arc flash tools.
Pros
- Superior integration of grounding analysis with arc flash calculations for higher accuracy
- Supports advanced standards like IEEE 1584-2018 and handles complex multi-source systems
- Comprehensive visualization tools for fault currents, step/touch voltages, and arc boundaries
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to its engineering depth and multiple interconnected modules
- High cost and resource-intensive for smaller projects
- Interface feels dated compared to modern dedicated arc flash software
Best For
Power system engineers in utilities or large industrials needing integrated grounding and arc flash analysis for complex substations.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise licensing; basic modules start around $5,000-$10,000 annually, full suites exceed $20,000+ with maintenance.
ElectroBIM
specializedCloud-based tool for arc flash hazard calculations integrated with BIM models for building electrical systems.
One-click automatic generation of arc flash hazard labels directly embedded in Revit BIM models
ElectroBIM is a specialized arc flash hazard analysis software that integrates seamlessly with BIM platforms like Autodesk Revit to automate calculations based on IEEE 1584-2018 and NFPA 70E standards. It performs incident energy, arc flash boundaries, and shock protection assessments directly within 3D models, generating compliant labels and reports. Primarily designed for the design phase of electrical systems in buildings, it reduces manual data entry and enhances coordination between design and safety compliance.
Pros
- Excellent BIM integration for automated arc flash labeling in Revit models
- Accurate calculations compliant with latest IEEE and NFPA standards
- Streamlines design-phase hazard analysis and reporting
Cons
- Limited flexibility outside BIM/Revit environments
- Steep learning curve for non-BIM users
- Pricing may be prohibitive for small firms or occasional use
Best For
Electrical engineers and BIM designers in AEC firms performing arc flash studies during building design projects.
Pricing
Subscription-based; annual licenses start at approximately $2,000-$5,000 per user depending on features and team size (contact vendor for quote).
Urja Enterprise
specializedPerforms IEEE 1584 compliant arc flash calculations with automated label generation for industrial facilities.
Unlimited buses and equipment in all license tiers at a fraction of enterprise software costs
Urja Enterprise's Arc Flash Software is a cost-effective tool designed for arc flash hazard analysis in electrical power systems, calculating incident energy, flash protection boundaries, and required PPE levels per IEEE 1584-2018, NFPA 70E, and international standards like NF EN 503103. It supports unlimited buses and equipment, with data import/export capabilities from ETAP, PSS/E, and Excel. The software generates customizable arc flash labels, one-line diagrams, and detailed reports to ensure compliance and safety.
Pros
- Highly affordable perpetual licensing with no bus limits
- Supports multiple global standards including IEEE 1584-2018
- Quick label and report generation with customizable templates
Cons
- Interface feels dated compared to premium competitors
- Limited advanced modeling for very complex systems
- Customer support primarily email-based with slower response times
Best For
Small to mid-sized engineering firms or consultants seeking budget-friendly arc flash calculations without sacrificing core compliance features.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses from $995 (basic) to $2,995 (Pro with advanced features); no subscriptions required.
EDSA PowerAnalytics
enterpriseProvides arc flash analysis as part of holistic power system design, simulation, and reliability modeling.
Integrated real-time power monitoring and predictive analytics tied directly to arc flash hazard modeling
EDSA PowerAnalytics is a comprehensive power system analysis software suite designed for modeling, simulation, and optimization of electrical distribution networks. It includes dedicated modules for arc flash hazard analysis, performing IEEE 1584-compliant calculations for incident energy, arc flash boundaries, and protective device coordination. The tool supports both steady-state and dynamic analyses, making it suitable for industrial and utility applications requiring detailed hazard assessments.
Pros
- Robust IEEE 1584 arc flash calculations with support for complex network models
- Integrated suite for load flow, short circuit, harmonics, and reliability analysis
- Database-driven approach enables efficient handling of large-scale systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to dated interface and complex workflows
- High cost with perpetual licensing model
- Limited modern features like cloud collaboration or automated reporting
Best For
Experienced power system engineers in large industrial or utility settings needing an all-in-one analysis platform with arc flash capabilities.
Pricing
Enterprise perpetual licenses starting at approximately $10,000-$20,000 per seat plus annual maintenance fees; custom quotes required.
Conclusion
Among the reviewed tools, ETAP emerges as the top choice, offering comprehensive arc flash analysis and strict adherence to industry standards. EasyPower and SKM Power*Tools distinguish themselves with fast, intuitive calculations and integrated capabilities, respectively, serving as excellent alternatives for varied needs. Together, these platforms deliver critical support for safety and compliance in electrical systems.
Take the first step toward enhanced safety by exploring ETAP—its robust features make it a standout for professionals seeking thorough, reliable arc flash management.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison