What is an Arc Fault? Everything You Should Know About it

Arc faults are a leading factor in residential and commercial building fires. An arcing fault occurs when an electric current jumps between conductors, causing sparks. If left unnoticed, this repetitive arcing can compromise wiring integrity over the long run and potentially ignite surrounding combustible materials. Understanding arc faults and having an arc fault detection device to protect against them is significantly important for safety. These devices are designed to monitor circuits for the unique signs of arcing and disconnecting power before a fire can start, helping to provide an important layer of fire protection.

Arc Fault: Overview and Types

An arcing fault occurs when an unintentional electric current passes between two or more conducting elements or from a conductor to the ground. Possible root causes include damaged insulation coating wires, loose or corroded joints, wiring subjected to external stress, or degradation from natural aging. Understanding what provokes arcing helps inform proper installation and maintenance methods to reduce risks. There are two types of arc faults:

1. Serial Arc Fault

A serial arcing fault involves arcing within a single circuit. It typically happens when insulation becomes damaged, worn, or cracked over time. The exposed copper wire can arc to another part of the same circuit, jumping from one conductor to another.

2. Parallel Arc Fault

Parallel arc faults happen between two wires carrying current in the same direction adjacent to each other. The most common example is arcing between a hot conductor and a neutral wire. Causes may include damaged or loose neutral connections, or natural deterioration that allows sparking between the two wires running close together.

Common Causes of Arc Faults

Several common factors can cause or contribute to the development of arc faults over time. These include:

1. External Force

Being in contact with or squeezed by objects like building structures, pipes, light fixtures, or furniture can physically stress and abrade wire insulation. Constant pressure and abrasion make insulation cracking and arc faults more likely to happen.

2. Accidental Damage

Unintentional damage during construction or home improvement activities is a major cause of an arcing fault. Drilling, screwing, or nailing through wire sheathing during installations breaches the protective covering.

3. Loose Connection

Connections that are not properly tightened can cause excessive heat at junction points from intermittent resistance. Over time, this heat damage can degrade wire quality and lead to sparking.

4. Rodent Damage

Rodents or other pests gnawing on wiring is a frequent culprit, as it penetrates wire sheathing. This exposure allows arcing between chewed copper and other interior parts.

5. Aging

Natural weathering from heat, cold, and airborne contaminants degrade insulation over decades. Older wiring runs a higher risk of breakages appearing that can initiate an arcing fault.

Stay Protected Against Arc Faults with AFDD

An arc fault detection device (AFDD) is designed to monitor circuits for the unique signs of arcing and disconnect power before a fire risk occurs. A quality AFDD from a reputed brand provides robust arcing fault protection. The seasoned manufacturer Maxge is a top choice. It is a leading safety and control equipment manufacturer established in 2006. With years of industry experience and multiple production facilities, it offers a variety of arcing fault and short circuit protection devices for homes and businesses.

Maxge’s SGBR-40AFD Arc Fault Detection Device reliably monitors branch circuits for arc faults. Measuring less than 18mm wide, the compact AFDD installs with ease. Its features deliver robust protection:

• Touch buttons and a visualization window provide clear indications of circuit status. This aids in installation, testing, and ease of use.
• Four-in-one protection shields against overloads, short circuits, ground faults, and arc faults simultaneously. This comprehensive coverage prevents a wider range of electrical hazards.
• A stable mounting design securely installs in enclosures or junction boxes. The tight fit ensures reliable long-term operation in harsh environments.
• Clear parameters allow users to simply view previous fault events for troubleshooting. Installers and electricians benefit from this diagnostic history.
• Compact structure frees up space in crowded electrical panels compared to larger competitors. The small footprint facilitates installation into a variety of panel types and spaces.

Conclusion

Overall, arc faults pose a significant fire risk that can be mitigated with AFDD technology. These devices continuously monitor branch circuits for arc faults that may indicate damaged or deteriorating wiring. When an arcing fault is detected, power is rapidly disconnected to prevent potential fires. For robust protection, installing a quality AFDD like the SGBR-40AFD from industry-leading manufacturer Maxge provides a strong defense against this common fire source. For more information on the company’s arc fault devices and full product range, visit their official website.