Ignition characteristics of residential series arc fault in 220V HIV wire

Unintentional arc faults, caused from damaged power line cords and loose connections, can start a serious fire and safety hazard in residential areas. The arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) is beginning to emerge as a product to protect against the arc that may cause fire. In this paper, we analyze ignition characteristics depending on the magnitude of load current when series arc occurs. Also, we suggest the suitable arc clearing time based on characteristic analysis in Korean residential electric environment. To do this, we have tested the carbonized path arc clearing time test using ultraviolet signal detecting system according to the test method of UL 1699. As wire specimen in those experiments, we used the heat resistant indoor PVC insulated (HIV) wire which is a kind of residential electric wire.