This results in a that can reach nearly 2.83 times the RMS symmetrical short circuit current (often approximated as 2.5 or 2.7 times depending on the X/R ratio). This peak usually occurs within the first half-cycle of the fault.

The steady-state AC component of the fault.

However, the current does not instantly stabilize at a peak value. It follows a transient DC offset pattern. The short circuit current ($i$) as a function of time ($t$) is described by: