Definitions for "Fault Current"
The current that will flow in the event of a fault. It is proportional to the fault level.
The maximum electrical current that will flow in a short-circuited system prior to the actuation of any current-limiting device. It is far in excess of normal current flow and is limited only by a system's generating capacity and a cable's impedence.
A current resulting from a fault, a circuit condition in which the current flows through an abnormal, unintended path. This can be for example insulation fault. If there were no protection device safely opening the electrical circuit heavy damage to the system would occur.
The surge of amperage created during an electrical failing.