Magnetohydrodynamic Modeling of Arc-Induced Thermal Response and Insulation Ignition Risk in Low-Voltage AC Short-Circuit Faults

Low-voltage (LV) alternating current (AC) power distribution systems are widely used, where phase-to-neutral short-circuit faults are a major cause of electrically induced fires. Prior to a circuit breaker interruption, arc discharges may develop between conductors, leading to intense localized heating of the cable insulation and a potential ignition risk. In this study, a magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) model of 220 V AC short-circuit arcs is established to investigate the coupled electrical and thermal behavior of arc discharges and their induced heating effects on conductor insulation. The transient temperature distribution in the arc region and insulation layer is numerically analyzed under different tripping currents and tripping times, and insulation ignition risk is evaluated based on characteristic thermal thresholds. To validate the simulations, a controllable 220 V AC short-circuit experimental platform is developed using a motor-driven wire contact mechanism. Circuit breakers rated at 20 A, 32 A, and 63 A are tested, and short-circuit current and voltage waveforms are recorded. The results indicate that insulation ignition risk is jointly governed by short-circuit current magnitude and breaker tripping time. Delayed interruption significantly increases insulation temperature and ignition susceptibility, whereas rapid interruption effectively suppresses arc-induced heating.