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Lightning arresters come in different types, each designed for specific applications and operating environments. The main types of lighting arresters include:
These are the most common types of lightning protection devices in use today. They are equipped with metal oxide varistors, which absorb excess voltage caused by lightning strikes or power surges. They are used in both transmission lines and substations, helping to protect high-voltage systems.
This arrester operates on the principle of thermal conductivity and voltage. It uses a metal conductor that melts and disconnects the system when the voltage exceeds a certain level. Though not very common, these are used as backup protection in high-voltage power systems.
These have an expulsion chamber, which helps to 'expel' the ionized gas after the fault current has passed through. These are typically used in medium-voltage systems. They are also suitable for outdoor installations because of their robust design and weatherproof features.
This combines the features of MOV and gas tube arresters for better protection. This provides both energy absorption and diversion capabilities. Exceeding voltage energies are absorbed and then safely discharged to the ground by this handy device. Such arresters are suitable for various environments and offer enhanced protection against transients.
A gas discharge tube is the primary component of these lightning arresters. It 'fires' or ionizes when a surge voltage occurs, allowing excess energy to be diverted to the ground. This helps to protect the insulated circuits from overvoltage. These are mostly used in medium-voltage systems and in telecommunications and data lines.
The important features of lightning arresters include:
This feature refers to the arresters’ capacity to absorb and dissipate surges of high voltage that come from lightning strikes or power transients. The higher energy absorption capability of the arrester means it can accommodate larger surges without failing. In contrast, dissipation typically occurs as heat, and an effective arrester is designed to dissipate this heat quickly. This helps to prevent any subsequent damage to the internal electrical system components.
The response time of the lightning arrester is how quickly it can react to a surge voltage by diverting excess energy away from protected devices. A shorter response time means the arrester is more effective in protection. It will redirect the surge to the ground before it ever reaches the devices connected to it. Quick-action arresters are crucial in applications where sensitive equipment is used, such as in telecommunications and data centers.
Residual voltage is the voltage level that remains on the arrester after a surge has been diverted to the ground. Although the surge is already diverted, this residual voltage still exists. It is important that the residual voltage level does not exceed the voltage rating of any protected equipment. If it does, there is a risk that the equipment will be damaged. To prevent this, it's critical to select arresters that have low residual voltage for sensitive applications.
A lightning arrester's protective class indicates the voltage range it can protect. These classes are differentiated by the voltage levels they can protect. For example, there are low-voltage, medium-voltage, and high voltage classes.
A low-voltage class arrester is used in residential or small commercial electrical systems, while high-voltage class arresters protect transmission lines and substations. Selecting the correct protective class for the application is very important in ensuring effective protection.
The commercial value of lightning arresters is based on the following:
By safely directing lightning energy away from structures, electrical systems, and communication lines, lightning rods minimize the risk of equipment damage. This reduces costs associated with repairs, replacements, and downtime for businesses.
Lightning arresters shield sensitive electronic equipment from power surges and voltage spikes caused by lightning. This protection is valuable in industries relying on high-tech equipment, computing resources, and data centers.
Businesses that install lightning arresters may qualify for lower insurance premiums because the risk of lightning-related damage is reduced. This leads to households with lightning arresters incurring lower insurance costs than those without.
By preventing electrical fires and electrocution risks, lightning arresters contribute to a safer environment in commercial and industrial settings. This keeps the workplace safe and protects against injury lawsuits or workers' compensation claims.
In critical facilities like telecommunications and power grids, lightning arresters ensure uninterrupted operations by preventing power surges from causing system failures. Businesses, therefore, do not have to worry about costly interruptions in service delivery.
Several factors must be considered when choosing storm protectors. They include:
These are the key considerations when choosing a surge protector. Look for units with a high joules rating, as this means they can absorb more surge energy before failing. Multiple protection levels also help to handle various surge intensities effectively.
Protects devices by redirecting excess voltage immediately during a surge. A shorter response time ensures that the protector activates quickly, reducing the risk of damage. That is why it is best to opt for protectors with low response times, such as those using metal oxide varistors or gas discharge tubes.
When lightning or power surges occur, a surge protector may reduce the voltage by clamping. The clamping voltage is the amount of voltage that will cause the surge to be diverted away from the device. Be on the lookout for those that have a low clamping voltage, as they will ensure that devices never receive higher than the required operating voltage.
Consider where the lightning arresters will be placed. Outdoor arresters should be able to withstand extreme weather conditions like heat, cold, and moisture, as well as dust and debris. Go for those that have robust and weatherproof designs. They help ensure reliable performance even under harsh conditions.
Some arresters are easy to install and require minimal maintenance. Others need periodic checks or replacements. Consider these factors to avoid inconvenience later on.
A1. Yes, lightning arresters have a lifespan. But it mainly depends on the type, environmental conditions, and surge exposure. Generally, MOV arresters can last about 3 to 5 years. Gas discharge tube arresters can be more durable, lasting up to 10 years or more. Temperature, humidity, pollution, and physical wear exposure can degrade an arrester's components. This will, in turn, reduce its effectiveness over time. For long-term reliability, manufacturers' replacement recommendations should always be followed.
A2. A lightning arrester safely directs the excess energy that lightning generates into the ground by creating a low-resistance pathway. This happens through the help of a metal or conductive material embedded within the arrester. When lightning strikes, the arrester captures all the energy and harmlessly transferred it to the ground.
A3. Yes. There are portable lightning arresters. They are mostly used in industries that experience frequent thunderstorms. Since they are portable, they can easily be deployed in areas that may be challenging to access regularly. While portable lightning arresters provide convenience, they may not be as robust or durable as permanent installations.
A4. Even though lightning arresters and surge protectors have similar functions, they are not the same. While both protect electrical systems from power surges, lightning arresters are designed to handle large surges specifically caused by lightning strikes. On the other hand, surge protectors provide more general protection against everyday voltage spikes from various sources. These include switched machinery, utility work, and nearby equipment.
