Explaining the Unexplainable: The Electric Phenomena in Wires

In summary, the conversation discusses a video of insulation catching on fire due to an ionization/plasma arc traveling between two wires. The participants also mention the possibility of moisture causing the fire and the lack of proper protection equipment. They also appreciate the video's entertainment value.
  • #1
Kontilera
179
23
Hello!
Just came across this video,
.
Does anybody know how to explain this??

Best Regards

Kontilera
 
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  • #2
insulation catching on fire, as more of the conductor is exposed the insulation fire moves with it. Cool video though.
 
  • #3
More likely caused by moisture on/in the progressing parts of the wire flashing to steam from the heat of the current flow from current moisture (steam) being ionized into the plasma by the arc. As the current wire section runs out of moisture the arc heat spot moves like a lit fuse to the next section as it flashes to steam from heat as the arc follows the power wires.
 
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  • #4
Mordred said:
insulation catching on fire, as more of the conductor is exposed the insulation fire moves with it. Cool video though.

no, not likely, a normal insulation fire wouldn't travel that fast horizontally
its an ionisation/plasma arc traveling along between 2 wires
if you look closely you will see the arc


there's awesome examples in this compilation of HV arcs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yX5TIDLvMyw


cheers
Dave
 
  • #5
ah yeah I didn't see the two wires, and also didn't consider ionization
 
  • #6
I loved the "Oh my God" at the end - as he reached for his computer, to upload the video. lol
It doesn't say much for the protection equipment, used on the line. An arc like that must be very low resistance and should have blown a fuse, at the very least. (I'm referring to the OP, here)
 
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1. What is electric current?

Electric current refers to the flow of electric charge through a wire or conductor. It is measured in units of amperes (A) and is caused by the movement of electrons.

2. How does electricity flow through a wire?

Electricity flows through a wire when there is a difference in electric potential (voltage) between two points, causing electrons to move from a high potential to a low potential. This flow of electrons is known as a current and creates an electric field around the wire.

3. What is resistance?

Resistance is a measure of how much a material or object impedes the flow of electricity. It is measured in units of ohms (Ω) and is affected by factors such as the type of material, length of the wire, and cross-sectional area.

4. How does the thickness of a wire affect its conductivity?

The thickness of a wire, or its cross-sectional area, directly affects its conductivity. A thicker wire has more space for electrons to flow, resulting in lower resistance and higher conductivity. This is why thicker wires are used for carrying higher currents.

5. What are some common uses of electric phenomena in a wire?

Electric phenomena in a wire are used in a variety of everyday devices, such as light bulbs, televisions, and computers. They are also essential for power generation and transmission, as well as in electronic circuits for communication and control systems.

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