Internal arc fault testing of gas insulated metal enclosed MV switchgear

An investigation on internal arc fault tests in gas-insulated metal enclosed MV switchgears is described and discussed. The influence of different gases (SF6 and air) and electrode materials (Cu, Al, and Fe) has been put into evidence. This is highly relevant based on the fact that IEC Standards and utilities technical specifications allows that internal arc fault tests are performed with air replacing SF6 with some precautions.