Problems of Assessing Ignition Capability of Aluminum Particles in Electrical Wiring When a Short Circuit Occurs

Theoretical issues of ignition capability of aluminum particles that emerge in aluminum conductor electrical wiring at the occurrence of a short circuit are considered. The thermophysical model of combustion of large aluminum particles is refined. Experimental studies aimed to obtain analytical dependencies and numerical values of the parameters of incandescent and burning aluminum particles have been carried out. Time of particles' burning, their thermal energy, critical diameter of particles that may cause ignition of certain combustible materials, as well as the area of combustible materials most likely damaged by burning particles with due regard for remoteness of the short-circuit zone have been calculated.