Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-08-26 Origin: Site
Power systems are the backbone of a modern society, but they're constantly at risk from power outages caused by lightning strikes and switching surges. Surge arresters are used to protect equipment like transformers and circuit breakers from damage when this happens.
This blog post will answer key questions about surge arresters and why you need them to protect your electrical systems.
As the name implies, a surge arrester is a protective device that "arrests" surge currents brought by internal or external forces. It protects the electrical systems against the effects of high-voltage electric shock, lightning protection, switching, and other power-related anomalies.
In essence, it acts as the first line of defense against electrical surges and transforms high-voltage to safe limits before your electrical components get them. Thus, its primary role is to extend the longevity of your electrical systems.
Surge arresters are connected between a power system and ground. When voltage levels are safe and normal, a surge arrester acts as an insulator, blocking current flow. But when the voltage exceeds its safe level, its internal components become conductive and channel the excessive energy to the ground.
Let's say there is a lightning storm. During this event, the strike induces a high-voltage transmission. A properly installed surge arrester will instantly detect this problem and divert the surge to the ground, protecting this equipment.
It is important to note that a direct lightning strike is not guarded by a surge arrester. Instead, it provides insulation against electrical problems due to lightning strikes upon their occurrence in the vicinity of the conductor.
Types | Voltage Class | Application | Function |
Secondary Arresters | Low voltage (< 1kV) | Service entrances, utility meters, panel boards | Protects against low-energy voltage |
Distributor Arresters | Medium voltage (1 - 36kV) | Overhead distribution lines, distribution transformers | Used on transformers in distribution networks below 36kV |
Station Arresters | High voltage (> 69kV) | Extra high-voltage substations, power plants | Protects critical systems, high-energy handling |
Intermediate Arresters | Medium - High Voltage | Smaller substations, medium-voltage equipment | Balances performance |
Residential Class Arresters | Low voltage | Homes, apartments, light commercial | Safeguards household appliances |
Portable Class Arresters | Low voltage | Field operations, portable generators | Temporary surge protection for mobile setups |
Solar Class Arresters | Low-Medium voltage | Solar panels, solar inverters, etc. | Protects solar farms from surge damage |
High Voltage Arresters | > 69kV | Transmission lines, substations | Prevent flashovers, handles extreme surge energy |
Lightning Class Arresters | All voltage levels | Outdoor installations, telecom towers | Protect against direct lightning strike |
Zinc Oxide Surge Arresters | All voltage levels | Industrial use | Universal surge protection |
Lightning is a constant threat to electrical systems. Surge arresters protect from lightning strikes by diverting the excess current to the ground. They safeguard houses and commercial premises like lightning rods. Their physical encapsulation and electrical grounding potential allow them to avoid insulation failure and provide protection in highly hazardous areas.
Power surges may result due to many factors, including an overload, switching operations, short-circuiting and grid fluctuation. Such occurrences can result in progressive or instantaneous degradation of electrical components.
Surge arresters can suppress the high voltage level and keep it within a normal range. They can use a special circuit that bypasses the affected device to ensure that it does not receive the high current. This power surge protection also extends to industrial machinery and HVAC systems as well as appliances and transformers.
Power surges may cause frequent repairs and replenishment of electrical components. This is because systems may constantly work beyond their usual levels and wear out their useful components. The use of surge arresters will minimize replacements and repairs.
Power surge protection will mean fewer service calls, longer intervals between maintenance cycles, and reduced labor expenses. By giving you less time to repair your systems, surge arresters help you save money in the long run.
Surge arresters protect electronic equipment from damage and voltage fluctuations. They prevent overheating and short circuits. They also protect internal circuitry from voltage stress. Thus, your refrigerators, air conditioners, televisions, computers, and other household appliances are kept safe.
Surge arresters may give daily protection in residential situations where the safety of the system is the primary concern.
Power surges can introduce unpleasant noise and disturbances that pollute the environment. By using surge arresters, you can get a cleaner power supply so that your equipment will not be disturbed. Normal current level results in power quality and better efficiency for industrial operations.
Consequently, it can improve performance in digital meters, medical equipment, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and SCADA systems.
Voltage fluctuations may disrupt activities, destroy systems and lead to unscheduled outages. Installing surge arresters will enhance the integrity and reliability of electrical components. They will ensure you have a stable and continuous workflow without hindrance.
Surge arresters enhance the performance and loading of the grid which is important in high-demand settings.
When power is out, work stops. Downtime begins, and every second of downtime brings great cost to you and your business. Telecommunications, financial and healthcare industries are heavily dependent on constant working processes, and that can be achieved by using surge arresters.
Surge arresters can avoid production halts and emergency shutdowns. Thus, it allows you to render essential services, boosts business continuity, and enhances customer satisfaction.
In the digital world, data is one of the most valuable assets of an organization. It is important to protect the data/information just as you would protect the hardware and other elements. When there is a power failure, relevant data could be lost, especially when they are not backed up.
High-quality surge arresters can protect data centers, routers, servers, and control systems. Surge protection can also prevent data loss and system crashes in industries such as telecommunication and healthcare where information must be secure.
Surge arresters act as gatekeepers, absorbing high current at its source, and redirecting it so it doesn't travel further. This reduces stress in transformers and substations, improving utility grid stability and balancing performance.
Power surges may result in overheating and breakdown of the insulation that might lead to fire outbreaks. Surge arresters help to mitigate the possibility of fire through controlling the amount of current and preventing excess energy from flowing into sensitive locations.
Surge arresters are capable of protecting wiring and electrical panels, particularly in older systems or high-exposure areas (lightning-prone areas).
If you're an operator or homeowner, peace of mind and comfort matter to you. Knowing your electrical system is protected from threats relieves you of stress and gives you confidence. If you operate in areas where there is a high occurrence of power surges, surge arresters can act as your watchman, keeping your systems safe at all times.
Even small variations in voltage can wear out your appliances over a period of time. Surge arresters will help to avoid small accidents, which ensures stable working conditions. Surge arresters prevent premature failure and extend the longevity of your electrical equipment.
The first thing is to determine your system's voltage rating and ensure your surge arrester can protect it. It is recommended that you get a surge arrester whose rating is slightly above that of your system for maximum protection.
Important voltage categories are low voltage (<1kV) found in residential homes. Medium voltage (<1-36kV) is used in industrial facilities, and high voltage (>69kV) is used in power transmissions and substations.
Voltage rating could be the continuous operating voltage (UCs) where the arrester's voltage can be sustained continuously without degradation. It could also be the maximum continuous operating voltage (MCOV), where the arrester remains stable during temporary overload.
Haivol's Zinc Oxide Surge Arrester has voltage ratings of 0.22~500KV (porcelain), 0.22~220KV(composite) for enhanced protection and reliability. It is applied in protection of overhead lines in power transmission and distribution rings.
Get a surge arrester that is capable of directing current levels to the ground without damage. Discharge current capacity is usually measured in Rated Discharge Current and High Current Impulse Rating. Increased discharge capacity plays a significant role where lightning strikes and power surge are common.
Not all systems experience the same level of surge energy. Surge levels can vary depending on switching operations, load type, lightning activity area, etc. Residential class arresters are suitable for low energy levels. Immediate class arresters are ideal for medium energy levels, while station class or transmission line arresters are ideal for high energy levels.
Our High Voltage Surge Arrester protects distribution systems from over-voltage. It is available in silicone polymer housing, composite, and porcelain housing metal oxide for enhanced protection.
Surge arrestors are susceptible to environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, altitude, and even UV rays. Choose a surge arrester based on the physical and climatic conditions of the environment. It will enhance the performance and lifetime of your arrester.
It is important to check the housing material of the arrester to ensure it can withstand unfavorable weather. Porcelain housing is durable and suited to high voltage. Silicone rubber provides UV protection while polymer is resistant to pollution and UV exposure.
Haivol's Polymeric Housed Metal Oxide Surge Arrester is designed to provide superior resistance to harsh environments.
High-quality surge arresters should comply with global and international standards for safety and optimal performance. IEC 60099-4 is an international standard for metal oxide surge arresters without gaps. IEE C62 11 is a standard certification for surge arresters in North America.
Others like ISO, GB, and ANSI certifications are additional industry-specific standards for consistency. These should be certified by reputable brands to deliver arresters of quality that will guard your equipment.
Ease of installation can affect the long-term performance of surge arresters. There are several mounting options you could choose from: pole-mounted, rack-mounted, or integration into switchgear.
Some surge arresters come with surge counters that track surge events for maintenance purposes. You'd need to determine if you need one or not. Some arresters are easily replaceable without significant downtime; this should also be considered.
Most surge arresters (like zinc oxide surge arresters) are maintenance-free. However, some arresters, especially those installed outdoors, require periodic inspection to make sure they're functioning properly.
Cost is another factor that cannot be ignored. Consider the total cost of ownership, which includes the purchase cost, installation, and maintenance costs. If you're on a budget, you may want to go for standard surge arresters, but do not sacrifice protection for cost.
It is important to remember that high-quality arresters may be more costly than ordinary ones. However, in the long run, they will save you time and money.
Industrial facilities are loaded with heavy machines and frequent switching operations that could cause surge events. Surge arresters are used in these areas to prevent production downtime and equipment failure.
Solar farms and wind turbines are in constant threat of power surges and lightning strikes due to their outdoor application. Surge arresters are used here to provide high UV resistance and extend the lifespan of external components.
Smart grid and automation systems rely on stable power to manage electric flow. Surge arresters are used to protect data infrastructure and support communication reliability.
Power plants generate a high amount of electricity and are thus subject to overvoltage events. Surge arresters can protect these plants, like transformers and generators, from damage. They can also reduce the risk of fire and prevent insulation breakdown.
Transmission lines carry high currents over long distances, making them targets of lightning strikes. Without surge protection, they could cause power outages. Surge arresters prevent back flashovers during storms in line terminals and overhead transmission towers.
Distribution lines carry electricity to residential homes, commercial centers, and multiple areas. Thus, they are prone to voltage fluctuations and environmental stress. Surge arresters are used to ensure a steady power supply, reduce power interruptions.
A substation is the heart of any electrical grid and distribution network. They maintain voltage transmission and distribution, making them a target of surges and lightning strikes.
Surge arresters are thus used in high-voltage substations to shield transformers and prevent insulation breakdown. They also ensure the safety of personnel and equipment, like circuit breakers and disconnect switches.
Overhead power lines are in constant danger of environmental hazards. Surge arresters are installed to avoid faults and enhance system reliability. With their high mechanical strength, they can reduce service disruptions.
Current rail systems, such as metro and electric trains, do not run without a substantial power supply to light up, communicate, and have a smooth flow. However, because rail infrastructure is spread across great distances, it is exposed to voltage spikes.
Surge arresters prevent signal errors and protect control systems. They also protect the safety of passengers and crews on board.
Lightning arresters are typically set up to manage direct lightning strikes. Surge arresters protect against a variety of current issues, including lightning-induced surges and other grid disturbances.
Transformers or substations can be fitted with surge arresters. You can also install them in the main electrical panel, near the point of entry in utility lines, or at the point of use for sensitive equipment.
A surge arrester and a stabilizer serve different purposes, so neither is better than the other. While a surge arrester manages sudden electrical spikes, a stabilizer maintains the electrical voltages.
You can use surge protectors, or surge arresters, to protect your equipment and prevent it from sudden spikes. Other methods involve: (1) not overloading the circuit, (2) solving any electrical issue immediately.
The average lifespan of a surge arrester varies depending on the quality, the frequency of surges, and exposure to environmental elements. Standard arresters can last for 3 to 5 years. High-quality arresters can last for 8 to 15 years. After that, you'll need to replace it to continue enjoying protection.
The Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV) acts as a voltage-dependent resistor in surge arresters. It safeguards the circuits against voltage spikes and channels overloading current to the ground to avoid the destruction of equipment.
Surge arresters protect your equipment from surges. They play a vital role across various industrial applications - telecommunication, healthcare, residential, and other commercial centers. They are a wise investment for your business.
If you want an excellent brand that produces reliable surge arresters with approved certifications, then choose Haivol Electrical. Contact us now for a quote.
