What happens to metal during an arc flash?

During an arc flash, the intense heat generated causes metal to expand rapidly and can lead to vaporization. An arc flash can reach temperatures upwards of several thousand degrees Celsius, which is sufficient to cause metals such as copper and aluminum to melt and even vaporize. This rapid heating and subsequent expansion is due to the significant amounts of energy released during the arc flash event.

Metals that are subjected to these extreme temperatures will undergo physical changes; they may initially melt and then vaporize if the heat is sustained long enough. This phenomenon is crucial to understand because it emphasizes the hazards associated with arc flash incidents, not only for equipment but also for personnel safety. The dispersion of vaporized metal can create a dangerous environment, contributing to the severity of injuries and damage in an arc flash scenario.