What is a Surge Arrester?

Encyclopedia
07/30/2024


What is a  Surge Arrester?


Definition of Surge Arrester


A surge arrester, also known as a lightning arrester, is a device used to protect electrical equipment from overvoltage transients caused by lightning or switching.



87c0a752dd0786ed63b5288f91a1ddf0.jpeg

 

 



Characteristics of zinc oxide arrester


  • Circulation capacity

  • Protective characteristic

  • Sealing performance

  • Mechanical property

  • Antifouling property

  • High operational reliability

  • Power frequency tolerance


 

 

Surge Protection


Surge protection is essential to prevent damage to electrical systems from transient overvoltages, which can be many times greater than the system’s normal voltage.


 

Sources of Surges


Surges can come from atmospheric lightning or from switching operations within the electrical system itself.


 

ZnO Lightning Arresters


Zinc oxide lightning arresters are effective because of their non-linear current-voltage characteristics, which allow them to handle and dissipate surge energy.

 


Construction and Working Principle


ZnO arresters are constructed from zinc oxide discs in a polymer or porcelain housing, and their effectiveness relies on the material’s ability to handle high surge currents through its non-linear resistance properties.



Encyclopedia

The Electricity Encyclopedia is dedicated to accelerating the dissemination and application of electricity knowledge and adding impetus to the development and innovation of the electricity industry.

What is Automatic Voltage Regulator?
What is Automatic Voltage Regulator?
An automatic voltage regulator is employed to regulate voltage, converting fluctuating voltages into a constant one. Voltage fluctuations mainly stem from variations in the load on the supply system. Such voltage variations can damage the equipment within the power system. These fluctuations can be mitigated by installing voltage - control equipment at various locations, such as near transformers, generators, and feeders. Multiple voltage regulators are often placed throughout the power system t
Edwiin
05/22/2025
What is Static Voltage Regulator?
What is Static Voltage Regulator?
Types of Static Voltage RegulatorThe static voltage regulator is superior to electromechanical regulators in respect of the accuracy of control, response, reliability and maintenance. The static voltage regulator is mainly classified into two types. They are;Servo Type Voltage RegulatorMagnetic Amplifier RegulatorThe types of static voltage regulator are described below in details;Servo Type Voltage RegulatorThe main feature of the servo type voltage regulator is the use of the amplidyne. The am
Edwiin
05/21/2025
What is Arc Extinction Circuit Breaker?
What is Arc Extinction Circuit Breaker?
When the current-carrying contacts of a circuit breaker separate, an arc forms and persists briefly after contact separation. This arc is hazardous due to the heat energy it generates, which can produce explosive forces.A circuit breaker must extinguish the arc without damaging equipment or endangering personnel. The arc significantly influences the breaker’s performance. Interrupting aDC arcis inherently more challenging than anAC arc. In an AC arc, the current naturally reaches zero duri
Edwiin
05/20/2025
Air Break Circuit Breaker
Air Break Circuit Breaker
In an air break circuit breaker, the arc is initiated and extinguished in substantially static air as the arc moves. These breakers are used for low voltages, generally up to 15 kV, with rupturing capacities of 500 MVA. As an arc-quenching medium, air circuit breakers offer several advantages over oil, including:Elimination of risks and maintenance associated with oil use.Absence of mechanical stress caused by gas pressure and oil movement.Elimination of costs from regular oil replacement due to
Edwiin
05/20/2025
Inquiry
Download
Experts Electrical is dedicated to serving the personnel in the global power industry.
Join Experts Electrical, not only can you discover power equipment and power knowledge, but also canhnd like - minded friends!