Why should a professional measure short-circuit current?
Work on the electrical system should generally be performed by qualified personnel. Improper handling can endanger property and people. Insurance companies usually only allow minor repairs and could stand in the way of damage. Therefore, you should only work on the electrical system if you have already gained experience and know exactly what you are doing. In addition, you need a special measuring device to measure the short-circuit current. The expert knows exactly how to perform the measurement and what to do if the required measured values u200bu200bare not observed.
What is the short circuit current?
Short-circuit current refers to the amount of current that reaches the conductors of the circuit in the event of a short circuit. A short circuit usually occurs when there is a malfunction in the device you are using. Other common causes are moisture in the socket, old and damaged cables or active intervention, for example by accidentally driving a nail into the conductor. Approximately, every third fire is caused by electricity, a large part through short circuits. If you want protection against electrical fires, we recommend installing fire switches.
Why is short-circuit current measurement necessary?
The short-circuit current must exceed a certain minimum value in order for the fuse to properly close the circuit before the line is damaged by overheating. This value is derived from the characteristics and rated current of the fuse used. An example based on the B16 miniature circuit breaker most commonly used in households: Characteristic B and a rated current of 16 amps result in a tripping current of 80 amps. The short circuit current must at least reach this value so that the fuse blows within the prescribed time and turns on the de-energized circuit. Short-circuit current measurement should be carried out after every change or expansion of the electrical installation. When hiring a specialist company, make sure they measure the short circuit current for each circuit and produce a measurement report after the installation is complete.
What is needed to measure short circuit current?
Short circuit current measurement You need a special measuring device that can determine the short circuit current of the circuit. Standard measuring devices trip the associated RCD (Residual Current Circuit Breaker) with each measurement. Better measuring devices can perform the measurement without creating this unpleasant side effect. Ideally, your measuring device can perform an automatic zero adjustment of the measuring line.
How can I measure short circuit current?
When measuring short-circuit current, you are working under voltage. Live work may only be performed by a qualified electrician. Be aware of this and work with special care. Be aware of possible consequences, such as damage to property and people. Before measuring, perform a visual inspection of the equipment. In particular, make sure that the insulation on the measuring line and on the device itself is completely intact. The measurement must be made at the last point of the circuit. Select the furthest outlet. This could also be the end of the cable drum or multi-plug you are using. User-friendly measuring devices have a measuring line with a plug that you can simply plug into an outlet. If this is not the case, you must work with measuring tips. They are color coded (blue neutral, black outer conductor, green / yellow protective conductor).
