12KV outdoor surge arresters / silicon lightning arrester

Surge Arrester

A surge arrester（Overhead Line Fittings） is a protective device used to safeguard electrical systems from high-voltage electric shocks, surges, and other power-related irregularities. It works in such way that when a voltage spike or other abnormally high potential occurs, it absorbs the energy and reduces the potential difference before it reaches the system's components. In essence, it acts as a barrier against any high-powered voltages to protect the materials and objects connected in the circuit.

It is typically used in electric circuits that could be adversely affected by extraordinary differences in voltage or electric current during powering up, because these often result in fires, electrical damages to electronics or even disrupt service. The surge arrester stores small amounts of electricity instead of damming it off, so protecting electronics as well as preventing disruptions. In this blog post, we will explain different surge arrester types, how surge arresters work, and why they are important for protecting electrical power systems.

Surge arresters work by intercepting any transient overvoltage’s that enter a system or circuit. When such a voltage spike occurs, the arrester routes it away from sensitive equipment through the ground connection until it dissipates safely. This happens very quickly – often within microseconds – ensuring that no harm is done to people or sensitive electronics & property.

The most common type of surge arrester consists of two main components: a spark gap and a series of metal oxide varistors (MOVs). The spark gap is responsible for providing a low-resistance path for the unwanted current to travel through. When triggered, it conducts electricity between its two electrodes in order to divert excessive voltage away from the protected system or circuit.

MOVs provide additional protection against surges that exceed the spark gap's capabilities. They are made up of several layers of zinc oxide particles that act as resistors when exposed to high voltages, allowing them to absorb any excess energy before it can reach sensitive equipment.