A Comparative Analysis of Different DC Arc Models for PV Systems Application

Despite the advantages of solar generation, some challenges still need to be overcome. Problems such as improper installations, lack of maintenance, and the aging process can lead to the deterioration of the photovoltaic (PV) system, making the system susceptible to various failures or faults, resulting in unexpected power losses, safety risks, and even fire hazards. Among the main types of faults, events capable of generating Direct Current (DC) arcs require special attention, as arc faults pose a notable fire hazard to residential, commercial, and utility-scale PV systems. DC arc faults are a complex physical phenomenon distinguished by their inherent unpredictability, diversity, and profound potential for harm. Thus, defining the physical constants for real-world arcing faults in power systems is particularly difficult. In this context, the development of models for electric arcs, which seek to describe this phenomenon, is an important tool for the simulation, analysis, and detection of DC arcs. This article provides an overview and comparison of the main DC arc models described in the literature to analyze arc incidents in PV systems.