Overcurrent

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In electricity supply, overcurrent or excess current is a situation where a larger than intended electrical current flows through a conductor, leading to excessive generation of heat and the risk of damaging infrastructure, equipment and causing fires. Possible causes for overcurrent include short circuits, excessive load, and incorrect design. Fuses, circuit breakers, temperature sensors and current limiters are commonly used protection mechanisms to control the risks of overcurrent.

[edit] Related standards

• IEC 60364-4-43: Electrical installations of buildings – Part 4-43: Protection for safety – Protection against overcurrent

[edit] See also

• Current limiting
• Electrical safety