In the same way that our bodies can acquire a variety of illnesses, so can electrical appliances have a variety of faults. And in the same way that our bodies need a doctor when ill, so do electrical faults need a qualified electrician. Here is an introduction to identifying electrical faults.
There are two main different types of faults, namely open or short circuit faults.
Open circuit faults
These faults occur due to one or more conductors failing. The most common causes are joint failures of cables and overhead lines or the failure of one or more phases on a circuit breaker. This is normally due to melting of a fuse or conductor. These faults are described as series faults.
Open circuit faults can be identified when system operations become abnormal. These faults are dangerous to surrounding animals and people as the voltages exceed beyond normal values in areas of the network. As a result, there may be insulation failures the development of short circuit faults.
Loose neutral on stove plug causing intermittent fault which can lead to a short circuit
Short circuit faults
Short circuit faults refer to an abnormal connection of very low resistance between two points of different potential. These are the most common types of faults. As a result of a short circuit fault, there is an abnormally high flow of currents which can lead to severe damage.
These faults can be caused by internal or external effects.
Examples of internal causes:
- Breakdown of transmission lines or equipment
- Ageing of insulation
- Deterioration of insulation in the generator or transformer
- Improper installations
Examples of external causes:
- Overloading of equipment
- Lighting surges
- Mechanical damage caused by public
Without addressing a short circuit fault, there may be fire and explosion, overheating, and worn out insulation.
Prevention
There are many different protection devices to clear faults and solve electrical issues. Some examples are a fuse, a circuit breaker, protective relays and lighting arrestors. If you experience a fault in your home or work place, make sure to contact a trusted electrician, like WiCKS Electrical, to come to your rescue.
