Understand AFDD switches – simply and effectively

Arc faults can be caused by damaged cables, loose terminals, or pinched wires. They generate high temperatures and may lead to fires. That is why arc fault detection devices (AFDDs) are so important: the AFDD from the SENTRON portfolio reliably detects these dangerous arc faults and immediately interrupts the current flow – even when conventional protection mechanisms do not respond.

Parallel arc faults occur when adjacent conductors, such as phase and neutral, come into contact due to pinched or overly tightly bent cables. This creates a short circuit between two conductors. Such faults can be detected by RCDs, MCBs, and AFDDs. The AFDD from the SENTRON portfolio provides reliable protection against the resulting fire hazards.

Series arc faults are caused by damaged insulation, pinched wires, loose connections, or faulty devices – often without overcurrent or ground fault conditions. They remain invisible to conventional protective devices but can still cause fires. The AFDD from the SENTRON portfolio also detects series arc faults and therefore provides effective preventive fire protection.

The SENTRON 5SV6 AFDD combines arc fault detection and circuit protection in just a single modular width (MW) – ideal for both new installations and retrofit applications. This saves 50% space in the distribution board compared to conventional solutions. It enables easy, standards-compliant expansion without additional space requirements. This makes the SENTRON 5SV6 AFDD ideal for flexible use cases such as older residential buildings, kindergartens, care facilities or offices with high load distribution, which are particularly susceptible to electrical fires.

More information:

• SENTRON 5SV6 AFDD

In just 2 MW (modular widths), the SENTRON portfolio enables complete protection:

• AFDD (SENTRON 5SM6) for fire protection
• RCBO (SENTRON 5SV1) for personal and cable protection

The RCD function is available with 30 mA or 300 mA sensitivity, and the MCB function with B or C tripping characteristics – ideal for flexible applications.

More information:

• SENTRON 5SM6 AFDD
• SENTRON 5SV1 RCBO

The 16-ampere limit for AFDDs has been removed. The use of AFDDs is recommended for all rooms with sleeping accommodations. If an AFDD is not installed, a documented risk and safety assessment carried out by qualified personnel is required. This process is complex and time-consuming – a simpler and safer solution is to use the AFDD from the SENTRON portfolio.

Without an AFDD, responsibility lies with the qualified electrician. If no risk assessment is carried out or recognized technical rules are not followed, criminal consequences may apply in the event of damage (e.g. § 319 German Criminal Code – endangering construction). Using an AFDD from the SENTRON portfolio or carrying out a proper risk assessment helps reduce liability risks and ensures compliance with standards.

Outdated installations, overloaded circuits, or damaged wiring increase the risk of fire. A thorough assessment identifies weak points and enables targeted protective measures – for example by using the SENTRON AFDD as an arc fault detection device. A risk assessment is mandatory if an AFDD is not installed and ensures both legal and technical safety.

Older residential buildings, kindergartens, care facilities, or offices with high load distribution are particularly susceptible to electrical fires. The AFDD from the SENTRON portfolio reliably protects as an arc fault detection device and can also be easily and space-efficiently retrofitted in existing installations.