Since this grounding system is connected with a ungrounded neutral grid the first fault-phase-to-ground-does not mean an actual short circuit. But it cannot work for an indefinite time. If the system may work for a long period with a phase grounded another way has to be chose.However,usually a phase-to-ground fault can be cleared in a few seconds.
The high resistance grounding equipment (zig-zag transformer and Grounding Resistor) should have a continuous-duty rating when the service continuity (alarm on first fault) is prime concern. Short-time rated devices (10 seconds, 1 minute or 10 minutes) are used on systems where the first fault is cleared automatically with a relay. With these devices, the fault must be removed within a time period of the short-time rating. Note–these devices should be ideally protected by a relay with inverse Time Current characteristics. The relay should be set to pick-up at or below the Maximum CONTINUOUS current rating of the Resistor. The time duration will be increased according to I2t=K (a constant). For example, at 50% rated current, a 10 second rated Resistor can only carry current for 40 seconds. In any case the relay characteristics must co-ordinate with the characteristic de-rating curve of the Grounding Resistor to prevent damage to the resistor.