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
We agree on inputs, responsibilities, and deliverables before the work begins, then keep the design decisions connected through each stage.
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.
Engineering scope
Project-specific
Disciplines, deliverables, licensing, and sealing requirements confirmed for your project before work begins.
Response
1 day
We respond to every inquiry within one business day to discuss scope, next steps, and the information needed for a proposal.
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
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Let’s define the right scope for your project.
Share your project location, current plans, and target schedule. We’ll follow up to confirm the scope and information needed for a proposal.