Metal Vaporization Properties

One of the effects of electrical current redirecting during an arc flash is extreme temperatures around the arc. Arc flash temperatures can ignite nearby combustible materials and liquify or vaporize metal parts in the vicinity of the event. This vaporizing effect rapidly expands the volume of the material as it changes state from a solid to a liquid to a gas, creating explosive pressure and sound waves. The pressure wave can propel solid metal debris and other loose objects at high velocities over great distances.

During an arc flash, solid copper can expand instantaneously to more than 65,000 times its original size as it vaporizes from a solid to a gas, which causes an explosion. Vaporized copper and bits of metal and other materials can be propelled by this blast to more than 700 miles per hour and up to 10 feet away.

To learn more about Arc Flash Safety visit our OSHA Construction Arc Flash Safety Online Training web page.