What type of fault can a network protector detect to trigger opening?

A network protector is designed to detect certain fault conditions in electrical systems to ensure the safety and operational integrity of the network. The detection of primary faults, which are faults occurring on the primary side of the electrical distribution network, is particularly relevant. These faults typically involve significant issues such as short circuits or line-to-ground faults, which can pose serious risks to the system's equipment and reliability.

When a primary fault is detected by the network protector, it triggers the mechanism to open the circuit. This action helps to isolate the fault, preventing any further damage to the system and protecting downstream equipment. The ability to respond to primary faults is crucial for maintaining the stability of electrical grids, ensuring that power can be safely routed and managing the distribution of electricity to various consumers.

In contrast, while ground faults, arc faults, and interference faults can occur in an electrical system, they are typically handled through different protective devices or systems, and may not be directly targeted by network protectors in the same way as primary faults. This distinction is key to understanding the operational focus of network protectors in maintaining the integrity of electrical networks.