Q: Is there a difference between "electric arc" and "arc flash?"
I have been referring to them as the same thing, using both terms to describe the same thing. Is this wrong? Can you advise on your view?
The terms "electric arc" and "arc flash" are interchangeable.
Arc flash describes the event from an experiential perspective.
The term has become associated with the dangerous event, but it is interchangeable with “electric arc.”
Electric arc is another technical term. Electric arc is not dangerous (think neon lights).
In England and Australia, I have heard opining that electric arc is the “correct” term. There are always those who are purists, but their opinions tend to get “in the way” and cause some confusion.
