What term describes the interval from when a fault occurs to when arc extinction happens?

The term that describes the interval from when a fault occurs to when arc extinction happens is known as Fault Clearance Time. This period is critical in the operation of protective relays and circuit breakers, as it indicates how quickly the protective system can detect a fault and isolate it by disconnecting the faulty section of the circuit from the healthy sections to prevent damage to equipment and ensure safety.

During Fault Clearance Time, the duration of the electrical arc following a fault can directly influence the thermal and mechanical stresses on the equipment. Understanding this time frame is essential for designing protection systems that are responsive and effective in mitigating faults quickly, reducing the total damage that can occur.

In contrast, terms like Fault Persistence Time, Arc Duration Time, and Clearance Interval are not standard industry terms that accurately capture the specific process of removing the fault current and extinguishing the arc. Each of these potential alternatives may refer to different aspects of fault management but do not encapsulate the precise definition and significance associated with the time it takes to clear a fault.