Conductor overcurrent protection

The author examines the nature of overcurrents in an electrical circuit, their effects on the electrical components, the functional performance of common protective devices, and the proper selection of those overcurrent devices in order to achieve effective protection of the electrical system. He also addresses one caution when analyzing conductor protection under conditions of short circuit. He concludes that, in order to adequately protect electrical conductors, a proper matching of the conductor thermal capability, the specific circuit conditions, and the protective device performance is needed. Users may rely on the credible data of the industry manufacturers themselves, or outside groups such as ICEA, IEEE, and the National Electrical Code.<>