Power System Studies
Short-Circuit Studies
Fault current analysis to verify every breaker and switchgear is rated to safely interrupt available short-circuit current.
Overview
Available fault current changes whenever the utility upgrades a transformer, when generation is added on-site, or when service equipment is replaced. A short-circuit study models the full distribution network, calculates the three-phase and single-line-to-ground fault current at every bus, and identifies any equipment whose interrupting rating is below the calculated value.
What's included
Scope of work
Utility short-circuit contribution verification (called in writing to the serving utility)
Transformer, generator, and motor contribution modeling
Three-phase, line-to-line, and line-to-ground fault calculations at every studied bus
AIC comparison against nameplate ratings for breakers, fuses, and switchgear
Series-rated combination analysis where applicable
PE-stamped report with summary of any underrated equipment
Methodology
How the engagement runs
A consistent process means predictable timelines, fewer surprises, and a defensible record if anyone (AHJ, insurance, OSHA) asks how the work was done.
Short-Circuit Studies: how the engagement runs
- 1Utility data and field walkWe request fault current from the utility and verify equipment nameplates against the single-line.
- 2Network modelingSystem built in ETAP or EasyPower with utility, transformer, and rotating machine contributions per IEEE C37 conventions.
- 3Fault calculationThree-phase and SLG faults computed at every bus; momentary and interrupting duty evaluated for medium-voltage equipment.
- 4Adequacy reviewEach device’s AIC is compared to calculated duty; we flag any device that is underrated or whose series rating depends on a specific upstream device.
- 5Report and recommendationsPE-stamped deliverable with one-line, results tables, and mitigation options where needed.
Stamped
100%
Every deliverable PE-stamped by a licensed engineer in the project state. Across all 24 registered states.
Response
1 day
We respond to every inquiry within one business day with a scoped proposal and a real timeline.
Veteran-owned
VOSB / SDVOSB
SAM.gov registered. UEI H6HAZKAD4LJ7 · CAGE 08E02. Set-aside eligible.
When you need it
Triggers
- →Service entrance upgrade or transformer replacement
- →On-site generation, BESS, or solar PV addition
- →Equipment purchase decision: need to size AIC correctly
- →Required input to a downstream coordination or arc-flash study
What you receive
Deliverables
- PE-stamped short-circuit study report (PDF)
- Bus-by-bus fault current tables
- List of underrated equipment with replacement or mitigation recommendations
- Updated single-line diagram
Continue exploring
Related services
Ready to scope your short-circuit studies engagement?
Send us the basics (facility type, equipment, timeline) and we’ll respond with a scoped proposal within one business day.