Short Circuit Coordination

Short Circuit and Coordination Studies

A Coordination Study ensures that a power system operates with maximum selectivity by isolating faults at the nearest protective device. This helps prevent unnecessary outages and avoids nuisance tripping caused by events such as transformer inrush or motor starting.

A Short Circuit and Coordination Study is a critical step after the initial design and before installation of an electrical distribution system. The NEC highlights its importance in Articles 110-9, 110-10, 240, and 517.17. An independent, third party study completed during or after the submittal process can be invaluable because it accounts for changes that occur after the original design stage.

Typical variables that shift during implementation include:

A detailed study ensures that protective device settings are accurate and coordinated, and that the system will operate safely and reliably under real world conditions.