What can be a result of improper coordination between protective devices?

The result of improper coordination between protective devices can lead to potentially hazardous electrical failures. When protective devices, such as circuit breakers and fuses, do not operate in a well-coordinated manner, it can cause them to trip or fail to trip when they should. This situation may leave parts of the electrical system unprotected or cause unnecessary power interruptions, leading to equipment damage, personal injury, and even fire hazards.

Effective coordination ensures that only the nearest protective device to a fault operates, allowing the rest of the system to function normally without interruption. If coordination fails, multiple devices may trip simultaneously or not at all, escalating the risk of electrical incidents and compromising safety. Proper coordination allows for effective isolation of faults while maintaining service to unaffected parts of the system, which is crucial for both safety and operational efficiency.