What is a direct result of an arc-flash event?

An arc-flash event is primarily characterized by the rapid release of energy due to an electrical fault, leading to a dramatic increase in temperature near the fault. The intense heat generated can cause materials to vaporize, leading to a rapid expansion of gases and, consequently, a significant increase in pressure in the surrounding area.

This pressure surge can result in a variety of hazardous consequences, including physical harm to personnel, damage to equipment, and the potential for subsequent fires or explosions. Therefore, understanding that pressure is a direct consequence of the thermal and kinetic effects produced by an arc-flash event helps emphasize the serious risks associated with electrical faults.

While temperature increase, voltage drops, and current surges can also occur during an arc-flash event, the immediate and notable outcome directly linked to the explosive nature of the event is the pressure increase resulting from rapid energy release.