Evaluation of Fire Hazard in Electrical Installations Due to Unfavorable Ambient Thermal Conditions

Abstract

Evaluation of fire hazard caused by electrical installations is a difficult and important topic, and it limits the possibility of loss of life or health of people, as well as the occurrence of significant property damage. In particular, this hazard was caused by power cables and especially photovoltaic (PV) installations. The authors proved that power cables directly exposed to strong solar radiation are likely to exceed maximum permissible temperature in unfavorable ambient conditions. Overheated and damaged cable insulation can be a source of electric shock and a strong leakage current causing fire. In the case of typical PV connectors (MC4 connectors), the main problem is poor contact at the connections of the PV cables. A poor connection can even cause the connector to melt, as shown in this study. In the paper, the authors present a computer simulation regarding critical thermal points of electrical installations, in particular, of the PV type. It may be an indication of what should be paid attention to when designing and implementing such installations. This is important for the safety of people and buildings.