lähiside

Lühiside is the Estonian term for a short circuit, an electrical fault characterized by an unintended, low-impedance path between conductors or between a conductor and the ground. This creates a high current flow that can bypass the normal load and exceed the circuit’s design rating, often causing overheating, component damage, or fire risk. Short circuits can occur in any electrical system, from household wiring to industrial equipment.

Causes of a lühiside include damaged insulation, moisture ingress, corrosion, dust, mechanical damage, or improper wiring. Aging insulation and manufacturing defects are common contributors in older installations. When a short circuit occurs, protective devices are expected to operate, typically tripping a circuit breaker or blowing a fuse to interrupt the current flow.

Protection and safety measures hinge on automatic protective devices and proper design. Circuit breakers, fuses, and residual current devices (RCDs) detect abnormal current levels or leakage and rapidly disconnect power. Good practices include correct cable sizing, secure terminations, proper insulation, enclosing exposed conductors, and adherence to electrical standards. Regular inspection and maintenance help identify deteriorating insulation or faulty connections that could lead to a lühiside.

Impact and handling: A short circuit can cause rapid heating, insulation damage, equipment failure, and increased fire risk if not promptly interrupted. Typical indicators are sudden loss of power, tripped protection devices, or unusual heat and burning smells, prompting immediate shutdown and investigation. See also: short circuit (in other languages) and electrical safety.