A short circuit is one of the most common and dangerous electrical incidents that can occur in an electrical system. This phenomenon can cause significant damage to electrical equipment, disrupt service, and pose a serious safety risk. In this article, we will explore how a short circuit occurs, particularly in electrical panels, and how an often overlooked aspect such as humidity can contribute to this problem… but we have the solution!
What is a short circuit?
A short circuit occurs when two points in an electrical circuit, which should not be in direct contact, are accidentally connected. Specifically, it happens when a low-resistance path allows excessive electric current to flow between two points of different potential, bypassing the normal load path. This phenomenon is called a “short circuit” because it creates a “short circuit,” meaning a very short and direct path for the current.
How does a short circuit occur?
A short circuit can be generated by several factors, including:
- Insulation failures: when the insulation between wires or electrical components deteriorates or is damaged, the conductors can come into direct contact, creating a short circuit.
- Accidental contact: foreign metallic objects or conductors can come into contact with electrical circuits, creating a low-resistance path.
- Faulty components: malfunctions or defects in electrical components can cause short circuits.
- Humidity and condensation: since water is a good conductor, humidity and condensation inside an electrical panel can create undesired conductive paths, leading to short circuits.
Why is it dangerous?
A short circuit is dangerous for various reasons. The excessive current flowing through a short circuit generates intense heat, which can melt wires and components, causing fires, or irreparably damage electrical and electronic components. Additionally, exposed conductors can come into contact with people or other conductive materials. Not to forget, if connected to a circuit breaker, a short circuit can cause power outages, compromising the functionality of systems and equipment, as well as data loss.
The role of humidity in causing short circuits
Humidity is one of the main causes of short circuits in electrical panels. When humidity penetrates an electrical panel, it can condense and form water droplets on the surfaces of electrical components. As mentioned earlier, water, being a good conductor of electricity, can create a conductive path between points that should not be connected, causing a short circuit. This problem is particularly common in environments with temperature fluctuations and high humidity.
How to prevent short circuits caused by humidity with Fandis
Fandis offers innovative solutions to prevent short circuits caused by humidity in electrical panels, for example, by combining the Orangis series hygrostat with the Fucsis anti-condensation heater.
- Orangis seies hygrostat: The Orangis hygrostat is a device that measures the relative humidity level inside the electrical panel. When the humidity exceeds a preset threshold, the hygrostat automatically activates the Fucsis anti-condensation heater. This device allows constant monitoring and control of humidity levels, preventing the formation of condensation.
- Fucsis anti-condensation heater: The Fucsis anti-condensation heater is designed to maintain the internal temperature of the electrical panel above the dew point, preventing condensation. When activated by the Orangis hygrostat, the heater emits sufficient heat to keep the internal components dry and prevent the formation of water droplets.
The combined use of the Orangis series hygrostat and the Fucsis anti-condensation heater offers numerous benefits. By keeping the electrical panel dry, the risk of short circuits caused by humidity is significantly reduced, and the corrosion and wear of electrical components are also prevented, prolonging their useful life. Additionally, the system activates only when necessary, optimizing energy consumption.
For more information about our products and innovative solutions, visit our website fandis.com and stay updated by following our blog.
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