When looking at short circuit ratings, there are two categories, protected and protective devices. Protected devices are those that withstand short circuit currents until a protective device opens the energy. Examples are cables, motors, or panels. Protective devices open the energy and protect the equipment from the heat. These would be fuses or circuit breakers.
Regulations require protective devices are rated based on the system or design. Too often, there is more focus on the performance than the electrical characteristics, so equipment is severely underrated and causes it to be over-dutied. This means equipment won't operate properly and cause hazardous conditions. Electrical equipment must be rated correctly to ensure safe working conditions.
