Abstract
The article presents a comparison of the spectra of electromagnetic radiation emitted by an electric arc. The spectrum ranges from ultraviolet through visible light to near infrared. Spectra from electric arcs were compared for different frequencies of generating current and for direct current. Characteristic peaks for each measurement were described, and the percentage of individual components of light emitted through the arc was presented. An electric arc is an undesirable phenomenon in many areas, and its detection and control depends largely on its source. There are also areas where an electric arc is used. A better understanding of the physical phenomena involved in different arcs can help optimize the use of the electric arc. Safety and economy through the elimination of parasitic energy shares i.e., in the welding arc can be based on the control of the arc by controlling its optical spectrum. The optical method used in this study is one of the methods of electrical discharge detection in electrical devices and systems.