Arc Fault Detection Devices

Arc fault detection devices (AFDD) are protection devices that monitor the current waveform to detect arc faults caused by loose connections or crushed or worn cables, and trip the circuit to reduce the risk of fire. They are used to protect socket and lighting circuits in homes, hotels and dormitories with sleeping rooms, in wooden buildings and in places where flammable material is stored. The category includes ABB's S-ARC1 series, which combines arc fault detection with a miniature circuit breaker, and the DS-ARC1 series, which adds 30 mA residual current protection to it; 1P+N pole models with B and C curves and rated currents such as 6 A, 10 A, 16 A and 20 A are listed. Choose the device according to the line's rated current, the B or C curve suited to the load, whether residual current protection is wanted in the same housing, the short-circuit breaking capacity and the module width. Since miniature circuit breakers and residual current relays cannot detect series arc faults, the AFDD complements these protections. These devices are for single-phase final circuits in buildings; do not confuse them with arc flash protection relays that work with a light sensor in switchgear panels.