Electrical Exam Term
Fault Current (Available)
The maximum current that would flow through a circuit during a short circuit or ground fault condition.
Detailed Explanation
Available fault current must be calculated and marked on service equipment per NEC 110.24. All overcurrent protection devices must have an interrupting rating equal to or greater than the available fault current. If a breaker's interrupting rating is exceeded during a fault, it may fail to clear the fault, causing an explosion or fire. Fault current calculations consider the utility transformer size, impedance, and conductor length.
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Practice QuestionEasy
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