Studies on the implementation of algorithms for electric arc detection

One reason of the occurrence of fires is the occurrence of electric faults among which the accidental electric arc is one of the most important. The paper presents the stages for achieving a microcontroller based device that detects and signals the appearance of arcing at low voltages (12V–14V). Results of the determinations for the current waveform in the case of an electric arc and in the case of normal operating situations are presented in the beginning. Current waveforms and current spectra have been determined. Based on a comparative analysis of the results it was proposed a detection algorithm that has been implemented in a microcontroller. By several measurements a certain set of parameters were set for the current analysis algorithm used by the microcontroller, to ensure optimum recognition of the electric arc. The device will be used in electromagnetic compatibility lab to captivate students towards automotive field and applications with microcontrollers.