lühisekatkestus

Lühisekatkestus refers to a short circuit in Estonian. It is an electrical malfunction that occurs when an unintended low-resistance path is created between two points in an electrical circuit that are supposed to be at different electrical potentials. This can happen due to damaged insulation, faulty wiring, or foreign objects bridging terminals.

The primary consequence of a short circuit is a sudden and dramatic increase in current flow. This surge of electricity can generate significant heat, potentially leading to melting of wires, damage to electrical components, and even fires. Safety devices such as fuses and circuit breakers are designed to detect these excessive currents and interrupt the flow of electricity, thereby preventing further damage and potential hazards.

In power distribution systems, short circuits can cause voltage sags or complete outages in affected areas. Diagnosing and repairing short circuits requires careful inspection of the electrical system to identify the source of the unintended connection. Prevention of short circuits relies on proper installation, regular maintenance of electrical systems, and adherence to safety standards.