Short circuit current distribution

In summary, adding a wire to create a short circuit in a circuit does not completely stop all current flow, as the remaining load will determine the current and there will always be a small amount of resistance in the wires used for the short circuit. This results in a residual current through the original load path due to the voltage difference across the short.
  • #1
Physicist3
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Hi, After adding a wire across a circuit to section off part of the load in the form of a short circuit, I am still seeing a couple of milliamps flowing through the load. Is this due to the fact that the wires used to create the short circuit will have a small amount of resistance, hence preventing all the currrent flowing through the short circuit?
 
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  • #2
Yes.

The remaining series load will determine the current. The current will be shared by the short and the shorted part of the load in proportion to the reciprocal of their respective resistances.

In reality there is no such thing as a perfect short circuit. There will be a voltage difference across the short. That will result in a residual current through the higher resistance original load path.
 

What is short circuit current distribution?

Short circuit current distribution refers to the way in which electrical current flows through a circuit during a short circuit. This can vary depending on the characteristics of the circuit, such as the type of components and their placement.

Why is it important to understand short circuit current distribution?

Understanding short circuit current distribution is important for several reasons. It can help engineers and technicians design and troubleshoot circuits, as well as ensure the safety of electrical systems. It can also help in predicting and preventing potential damage to equipment during a short circuit event.

What factors influence short circuit current distribution?

Several factors can influence short circuit current distribution, including the type and impedance of the components in the circuit, the length and thickness of the conductors, and the type of fault (e.g. symmetrical or asymmetrical). In addition, the location and type of the short circuit can also affect the current distribution.

How is short circuit current distribution calculated?

Short circuit current distribution can be calculated using various methods, such as Ohm's Law and Kirchhoff's Laws. These calculations take into account the circuit characteristics and fault conditions to determine the distribution of current through the circuit.

What are the potential hazards of short circuit current distribution?

Short circuit current distribution can pose several hazards, including electrical shock, overheating and damage to equipment, and even fire. It is important to understand and properly manage short circuit current distribution to minimize these risks and ensure the safety and functionality of the electrical system.

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