Arc tracking

Arc tracking is a phenomenon in which a conductive carbon path is formed across an insulating surface. The carbon path provides a short circuit path through which current can flow (e.g., electrical arcing.) Circuit breakers are especially susceptible to Arc Tracking.

 The effects of electrical faults can include:

• Component overheating

• Toxic fumes

• Smoke

• Fire

• Damage to wires, wire bundles, or parts

• Melting of holes in sheet metal parts by faulted, high current feeder cables

• Melting and burning of titanium bleed air ducts by a chaffed, high current feeder cable

• Electromagnetic interference (EMI) with equipment

• The simultaneous and unreasonable loss of both engine driven generators in a two engine airplane