Electromagnetic Emission Estimation Using Common-Mode Current for Arc Fault Detection in Low Voltage Systems

Arcing faults are a major cause of electrical fires in low-voltage distribution systems. Early detection of these faults is essential to improve system safety and reliability. This paper proposes a method to estimate radiated electromagnetic emissions (EME) generated by arc discharges using common-mode currents induced in conductors. A high-frequency current sensor captures these currents, which are modeled using a Hertzian dipole framework to predict far-field radiation. Experimental validation was conducted using broadband antenna measurements at two distances in the far field. The results show a strong agreement with the theoretical predictions, confirming the ability of the model to reproduce the spatial decay and spectral characteristics of the arc-induced emissions. The proposed approach provides a practical, non-intrusive technique for arc fault detection in low-voltage power systems.