Arc Reduction Methodology of Circuit Breaker Damaged by Series-Arc

Objectives: The temperature rise characteristic of a circuit breaker connector resulting from a series-arc caused by faulty contact was analyzed along with a proposed method to mitigate such series-arc. Methods/Statistical Analysis: Variable current load was applied to the screw connector of the circuit breaker to perform a test on the temperature characteristic using an arc generator when the screw-type connector of the circuit breaker is under one of the following conditions: Normal contact, faulty contact, and with an insulating pad. The results under the respective conditions were analyzed and compared. Findings: It was confirmed that the temperature in the connector can rise rapidly due to an arc, possibly resulting in a fire if an excessive load is applied to the circuit breaker with a faulty contact in the screw attributed to a slight gap between the screw and connector. Therefore, such fire can be prevented by inserting an insulating pad in the connector. Improvements/Applications: The findings of this study are believed to be helpful in preventing fires resulting from a series-arc, establishing regulations for the installation of arc fault circuit interrupter and studying an investigative method for fires resulting from a faulty contact.