Is High Voltage DC Current Dangerous?

In summary, there is a common misconception that DC current does not cause electric shock because it is constant, while AC current does because it is alternating. However, this is not true. Touching electric terminals, regardless of the type of current, is dangerous and can cause jolting, pain, and severe burns. The skin effect, which is often cited as a reason for the safety of DC current, has no impact on human skin. It is important to seek proper advice on electrical safety to avoid harm.
  • #1
samieee
67
0
I have heard that 'we don't get shock from dc current because it is constant but we get shock from ac current because it is alternating'.Is that true? If it is HIGH VOLTAGE DC CURRENT THEN?
 
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  • #2
If the amount of current passing through our body breaks the resistance of it then what we feel is called electric shock isn't it? then I think we must get shock from dc current if the amount is considerably high (that means breaks our resistance)
 
  • #3
Is that true?

Most definitely not true.

Whoever told you this may be referring to a classroom demonstration where someone is invited to touch a single high voltage terminal (for example in a Van der Graff generator), whilst being carefully insulated from the rest of the planet.
This can safely be done by most people.

However as a general rule it is a very bad idea to touch electric terminals.
 
  • #4
When the voltages / currents are low, low frequency AC is more discernible. However, when you go up in voltage, both become jolting and painful.
High frequency AC (i.e. > 1MHz) gets to where you don't notice shock, but you can get severe penetrating burns before you notice something's happening.
 
  • #5
though there is debate which one is more dangerous, I think dc is more because ac current will flow through the skin rather than heart due to skin effect
 
  • #6
The skin effect has nothing whatsoever to do with human (or animal) skin.

Sam, please get some proper advice about electrical safety before real harm is done.
 

1. Is high voltage DC current more dangerous than AC current?

Yes, high voltage DC current is generally considered to be more dangerous than AC current. This is because high voltage DC current can cause muscle contractions and respiratory paralysis, while AC current can cause muscle spasms that may allow a person to release the source of the shock.

2. How does high voltage DC current affect the human body?

High voltage DC current can cause damage to the human body in several ways. It can disrupt the electrical signals that control the heart, leading to cardiac arrest. It can also cause severe burns, nerve damage, and tissue damage.

3. What precautions should be taken when working with high voltage DC current?

When working with high voltage DC current, it is important to follow all safety protocols and wear appropriate personal protective equipment. This may include insulated gloves, safety glasses, and non-conductive footwear. It is also important to de-energize equipment before working on it and to never touch high voltage DC current with wet hands.

4. Can high voltage DC current cause fires?

Yes, high voltage DC current can cause fires. It can generate a large amount of heat, which can ignite flammable materials. In addition, if the current is not properly controlled and regulated, it can arc and create sparks, which can also start fires.

5. How is high voltage DC current used in everyday life?

High voltage DC current is used for a variety of purposes in everyday life. It is used in power transmission and distribution, as well as in electronic devices such as computers and smartphones. It is also used in medical equipment, such as MRI machines, and in industrial processes, such as welding and electrolysis.

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