For every power engineer, including plant and utility engineers at all levels... This self-study course reviews the fundamental theory and practical requirements to perform short-circuit calculations on industrial and commercial power distribution systems according to Chapter 4 of the IEEE Red Book (i.e. ANSI/IEEE Standard 141-1993). The results of these calculations are then used for the proper selection of short-circuit capabilities of low and medium voltage circuit breakers and fuses. This course should be particularly useful to practicing power engineers and power engineering students who are employed as plant engineers with heavy industrial and commercial customers, utility engineers who work at the distribution level, and power engineering consultants. This course is a perfect complement to and extension of the subject matter as presented in the IEEE Red Book, Buff Book and Gray Book.

A thorough analysis of basic electrical-systems considerations is presented. Guidance is provided in design, construction, and continuity of an overall system to achieve safety of life and preservation of property; reliability; simplicity of operation; voltage regulation in the utilization of equipment within the tolerance limits under all load conditions; care and maintenance; and flexibility to permit development and expansion. Recommendations are made regarding system planning; voltage considerations; surge voltage protection; system protective devices; fault calculations; grounding; power switching, transformation, and motor-control apparatus; instruments and meters; cable systems; busways; electrical energy conservation; and cost estimation.

This recommended practice provides short-circuit current information including calculated short-circuit current duties for the application in industrial plants and commercial buildings, at all power system voltages, of power system equipment that senses, carries, or interrupts short-circuit currents.