What is the term used to describe faults that occur outside of the protection zone?

The term that describes faults occurring outside of the protection zone is indeed "external faults." In the context of electrical systems, external faults refer to disturbances that affect the network from outside its defined protection measures, such as faults caused by a short circuit in a neighboring system or an event that leads to an imbalance in the network.

Understanding this concept is crucial because external faults typically require different protective measures compared to internal faults, which occur within the protection zone itself. Identifying external faults is vital for maintaining system stability and reliability. Management of these faults often involves coordination with interconnected systems or external utility providers, as they can have widespread impacts on the electrical infrastructure.

In recognizing the unique nature of external faults, one can appreciate the importance of having comprehensive protection schemes that account for both internal and external influences, ensuring a more robust and reliable electrical system overall.