The Effects of Relative Humidity on DC Series Arc Generation and Detection

Electrification of aircraft, ships and rail has led to an increased use of DC power networks and at higher operating voltages. Arc faults in these higher voltage systems have increased energy levels and can potentially cause significant damage and destruction. These DC power systems are used across a wide range of environmental conditions, and there is a need to understand how the environment affects arc generation and arc detection. Experimental results indicate a clear difference in arc behaviour between humid and dry environments, suggesting a reduction in the transient features used for arc detection and an increased arc duration, resulting in a heightened risk as relative humidity decreases. Results also indicate a reduced response from arc detection algorithms from arcs in drier environments. This has highlighted the need for additional work regarding the change in arc characteristics with varying environmental conditions. and the impact this has on detection and power network protection.