A series arc fault can occur anywhere in the line or neutral wire of a
circuit. By definition, the current flowing in a series arc fault is
limited by the load on the circuit. The connection at a receptacle
outlet is an example of a place where a series arc fault may occur.
Even when thought to be properly installed, the screw terminal that
connects a wire to a receptacle may become loose as the receptacle
is pushed back into the work box. The photo below shows a
receptacle that has been wired but not yet pushed back into the
work box. Photo 4 illustrates the movement of the neutral wire after
force has been applied to insert the receptacle into the work box.