Eaton/Cutler-Hammer AFCI Breaker 'issue'

[Rob Amaral]

Did a 2017-era inspection with an Eaton/Cutler-Hammer load-center this week (Apr 2022).  Test-tripped the AFCIs and one 'sort of blew up' (arced, material spat out somewhat, etc). 

- I did not turn it back on, posted a note, made all the proper recommendations etc, but I'm not aware of this happening with any brand of breaker.... Thoughts??   I'm gonna go snooping-around the web for more info.. 

[BADAIR]

5 hours ago, Rob Amaral said:

Did a 2017-era inspection with an Eaton/Cutler-Hammer load-center this week (Apr 2022).  Test-tripped the AFCIs and one 'sort of blew up' (arced, material spat out somewhat, etc). 

- I did not turn it back on, posted a note, made all the proper recommendations etc, but I'm not aware of this happening with any brand of breaker.... Thoughts??   I'm gonna go snooping-around the web for more info.. 

there are numerous documented issues with afci of differing mfr

i've provided all pix & descriptive documentation to their customer/tech support w/positive results

https://www.eaton.com/us/en-us/support/eatoncare.html

Edited April 14, 2022 by BADAIR

[Trent Tarter]

I have had numerous Cutler-Hammer/Eaton AFCI breakers fail when testing and not resetting. I no longer will push the test buttons with my finger as I have been shocked significantly before, also several have flashed/arched when testing.   

[Rob Amaral]

Hm.. 

[cswearer]

I actually have them in the home I just bought. They are no good, hard to find and expensive when you do!