The historical evolution of arcing-fault models for low-voltage systems

An arcing fault is a dangerous form of short-circuit that may have a low current magnitude. In the case of such faults, the magnitude of the current is limited by the resistance of the arc and may also be limited by the impedance of a ground path. This lower level of fault current is often insufficient to immediately trip overcurrent devices, resulting in the escalation of the arcing fault, increased system damage, tremendous release of energy and threat to human life. Despite modern advances in system protection, many people are critically injured or killed each year as a result of such faults. The initial phase of an ongoing arcing-fault research project was to review the pioneering work, dating back to the 1920s. After a comprehensive literature search was completed, today's sophisticated analytical tools are aiding development of a new arc model. An improved arc model will more accurately calculate the arc currents in an actual arcing event. This paper summarizes the physics involved and describes the historical evolution of arc modeling. The condensed review presented in this paper facilitates a better understanding of arcing faults in low-voltage power systems; in addition, it serves as a foundation for current and future research.