Forensic Identification and  Root Causes of Hot Socket Problems  Found in Electrical Meters

David Icove; Thomas A. Lawton

doi:10.51501/jotnafe.v38i1.133

Authors

David Icove, PhD, PE University of Tennessee https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7403-9299
Thomas A. Lawton President of TESCO - The Eastern Specialty Company https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8787-463X

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51501/jotnafe.v38i1.133

Keywords:

Electrical utility distribution systems, hot sockets, smart meters, forensic engineering

Abstract

Electric meters play a critical role in electric utility distribution systems, especially for residential customers. Because it occurs so infrequently, forensic engineers may not recognize a dangerous condition within these meters known as a “hot socket.” This condition exists where the meter blades make insufficient electrical contact with the socket jaws. This paper reviews methods for forensically examining, diagnosing, and explaining the hot socket phenomenon while exploring smart meters’ incident trends.

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