The historical evolution of arcing-fault models for low-voltagesystems

摘要

An arcing fault is a dangerous form of short-circuit that may havea low current magnitude. In the case of such faults, the magnitude ofthe current is limited by the resistance of the arc and may also belimited by the impedance of a ground path. This lower level of faultcurrent is often insufficient to immediately trip overcurrent devices,resulting in the escalation of the arcing fault, increased systemdamage, tremendous release of energy and threat to human life. Despitemodern advances in system protection, many people are critically injuredor killed each year as a result of such faults. The initial phase of anongoing arcing-fault research project was to review the pioneering work,dating back to the 1920s. After a comprehensive literature search wascompleted, today's sophisticated analytical tools are aiding developmentof a new arc model. An improved arc model will more accurately calculatethe arc currents in an actual arcing event. This paper summarizes thephysics involved and describes the historical evolution of arc modeling.The condensed review presented in this paper facilitates a betterunderstanding of arcing faults in low-voltage power systems; inaddition, it serves as a foundation for current and futureresearch