Short Circuit Studies
Prevent Equipment Failure and Ensure Electrical Safety
Excel Engineering delivers rigorous short circuit studies engineered to verify equipment safety ratings, prevent system failures, and enhance overall reliability.
Our experienced Power Systems engineers are experts in short circuit studies and analysis.
We develop a system model based on your one-line drawings and detailed equipment data. Including utility sources, backup generators, motors, conductors, transformers, and impedance characteristics—to quantify fault currents at each critical device point.
This model simulates worst-case fault scenarios, producing tabular results that compare available fault currents with actual interrupting and withstand ratings. Any equipment found to be overdutied is flagged for early notification.
Our short circuit studies align with NFPA 70E, IEEE, OSHA, and NEC standards. They detect underrated protective devices and equipment that may fail under fault conditions—potentially causing arc flash incidents or extended outages. We recommend adjustments before equipment purchase or installation to avoid costly replacements and safeguard operations.
What Is a Short Circuit Study?
A short circuit study evaluates how an electrical power system responds to fault conditions—such as a sudden surge of current caused by equipment failure, insulation breakdown, or wiring issues. This type of analysis enables engineers to understand the magnitude and location of potential faults, so they can implement appropriate protective measures. By identifying weak points and ensuring all system components are adequately rated, a short circuit study plays a key role in reducing safety hazards, avoiding costly downtime, and protecting both personnel and critical infrastructure. It forms the foundation for safe and reliable electrical system operation.
How Our Short Circuit Study Process Works
The short circuit study process begins with thorough data gathering, including one-line diagrams, equipment ratings, impedance values, and utility source information. This data forms the basis of a detailed digital model of the electrical system, created using industry-standard software. Our Power Systems engineers use this model to simulate worst-case fault conditions at key points throughout the system, calculating the magnitude of fault currents that equipment may be exposed to.
These simulations help verify whether devices like breakers, fuses, and switchgear are adequately rated to handle fault levels without damage or failure. If the calculated fault current exceeds a device’s interrupting or withstand rating, the component is flagged as overdutied. Early identification of these issues allows engineers to recommend replacements or design adjustments before construction or energization.
The completed short circuit study includes a clear report outlining the methodology, fault current levels at each bus or device, and a list of any equipment that requires attention. Updated system drawings and tabular summaries are typically included, ensuring that project teams, facility managers, and safety personnel can act on the findings efficiently.
Short circuit studies are a foundational step in power system planning and must be updated regularly—especially after system expansions, equipment upgrades, or utility changes—to maintain safe, code-compliant operation.
We're ready to help with your next project.
Excel is an experienced, dedicated partner that brings a detail-oriented and relationship-driven approach to every project to ensure it exceeds your goals. Here are just a few of the reasons to partner with us for your short circuit study needs.
Contact us now!
"*" indicates required fields
