Visual and oxide analysis for identification of electrical fire scene

Three aluminum wires with different melted mark, which were found inside a burned distribution board from the electrical fire debris in rural areas of Northeast China were characterized to determine the cause of fire. By visual and microstructure/metallographic analysis, one melted bead shows typical morphology (microstructure/characteristics) as a result of overheating or electric short circuit (ESC) arc beads which was identified as the most possible ignition source. The macro-/micro-structure of the metallic wire, the chemical composition of the beads surface and the state of the polymer insulating sheath combining the tension state of the electric wire provided solid evidence on the exposure temperature and time of each aluminum wire. Consequently, the fire source was identified. Therefore, the characterization on the macro-/micro-structure and chemical composition of metallic surface with scientific technique is greatly helpful in determining heating process of metallic parts and subsequently the cause of fire.