Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Speaking of arcing conditions: What causes arcing?
Arcing often occures in damaged and deterioated wiring and cords.
Some causes of damaged and deteriorated wiring include puncturing of wire insulation caused by picture hanging or cable staples, poorly installed outlets and switches, cords caught in doors or under furniture, furniture pushed against plugs in an outlet and cords exposed to heat vents and sunlight.

Why do wee need to prevent unwanted arcing?
Arc faults are one of the major causes of fires.
When unwanted arcing occurs, it generates high temperatures that can ignite nearby combustibles such as wood, paper and carpets.

Monday, January 2, 2012

What is an AFCI device?

AFCI stands for Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter.
What does an AFCI device do? An AFCI device (a circuit breaker or a receptacle) is designed to protect against fires caused by arc faults in electrical wiring.
How does an AFCI breaker work? An AFCI breaker, besides of having the function of a common circuit breaker, continuosly monitors the current flow and distinguishes between normal and unwanted arcing conditions. Once an unwanted arcing condition is detected, the AFCI trips and de-energizes the circuit.

Intro

Hi!
My name is Thomas Tripolt, my company is All Electric, a Electrical Contracting Business located in Marin County, CA.
I provide you with a variety of information and education materials on electrical products, electrical installations, energy efficiency and safety information.