What happens to the state of conductors during an arcing fault?

During an arcing fault, conductors experience extreme temperatures due to the high energy involved in the electrical arc. This intense heat causes the metal in the conductors to transition into a hot molten state, and it can also produce metal vapor. The rapid rise in temperature can lead to the melting of the conductor material, which is often conductive metals such as copper or aluminum. This process significantly affects the state of the conductors, and the generation of metal vapor is particularly dangerous as it can contribute to further arcing and could pose risks to safety and equipment. Understanding this behavior is essential for developing strategies to prevent and manage electrical faults effectively.