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Zno lightning arresters come in diverse types, each designed to handle specific voltage levels and installation environments. With an understanding of the various types, one can choose the right lightning arrester according to factors such as electrical system requirements and geographical weather conditions. Note these are the primary types:
Known as series connected arresters, inline arresters are installed directly into power lines or circuits. They protect systems by limiting voltage surges that might propagate through electrical lines.
Manufactured for high voltage power lines, suspension arresters are mounted on insulator strings. These arresters support their own weight while insulating the line above from the lower voltage sections.
'Stray voltage' refers to the unwanted electrical voltage that appears on conductive surfaces. Stray voltage arresters are installed near ground surfaces or metal structures to disperse any induced voltage safely into the earth.
Installed directly on overhead power lines, these arresters have high insulating properties and are employed in regions with high pollution and severe weather. They are mounted on insulated parts of overhead lines.
These arresters combine metal oxide varistors (MOVs) with other protective components against overvoltage on Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs). Integrated MOV arresters find wide applications in protecting electronic devices and circuits.
These arresters are built into porcelain insulators for high voltage lines. They offer simple mechanical support with excellent insulating properties.
These lightweight and pollution-resistant arresters are constructed with non-ceramic composite materials instead of porcelain insulators. This makes them ideal for hazardous working conditions.
A Zno lightning arrester is often constructed using diverse materials and design elements, which are instrumental in ensuring they perform effectively and reliably. Here is a breakdown:
Zinc Oxide
Zinc oxide (ZnO) is the primary material used in modern lightning arresters. It possesses nonlinear resistance properties, initiating conduction only after a certain threshold voltage is reached.
Metallic Electrodes
ZnO variable resistors are sandwiched between metallic electrodes. These electrodes are often constructed from copper or brass due to their high conductivity and resistance to corrosion.
Insulating Housing
Designed to trouble-free performance, the insulating housing of lightning arresters are usually constructed from silicone rubber, polymer, or porcelain.
Grounding Components
A good ground allows the safely diverted lightning strikes. Arresters are also fitted with copper or stainless steel-components, ensuring lasting connection with minimal resistance.
Valve Action
This design allows the arrester to remain insulated under normal operating voltage. An overvoltage situation causes the ZnO crystals to go into conduction mode, redirecting excess energy.
Series Resistance
The construction of the Zno lightning arrester incorporates the design of series resistance, where resistors are placed in series to control the current flow and protect the circuit from surges.
Gapless Construction
With the exception of older designs, modern arresters are gapless. This means there are no air gaps between electrodes. Such designs are more reliable, as they eliminate the risk of arrester failure due to erosion or damage to the gap.
Modular Configuration
For easy maintenance and replacement, many new arresters are constructed with modular designs. This makes it easy to replace damaged parts without needing an entirely new system.
The versatility of Zno lightning arresters extends across many applications. To be more specific, here are the typical scenarios where they provide vital protection:
In high-voltage transmission lines or substations, lightning arresters protect equipment and maintain system stability by absorbing voltage spikes.
Installed in solar photovoltaic systems and wind turbines, they safeguard sensitive electronics against surge voltage caused by lightning or switching events.
In telecom towers, antennas, and transmission equipment, arresters protect against electrical surges that may damage sensitive communication devices and disrupt services.
Employing arresters in manufacturing plants or large industrial complexes protects motors, drives, and control systems from voltage transients caused by lightning or load switching.
In railways, airports, and other transport systems, arresters shield signaling, communication systems, and electronic navigation equipment from surge voltages.
Commonly integrated into construction designs in commercial buildings, skyscrapers, or critical infrastructure, arresters protect electrical systems from lightning-induced surges.
Installed in hospitals, fire stations, and other emergency service centers, they ensure devices like CT scanners, ventilators, and communication equipment operate uninterrupted during electrical surges.
In these high-density electronic environments, a surge arrester is used to protect sensitive servers and storage equipment to maintain data integrity and prevent system downtime.
In retail environments, they protect cash registers, card readers, and inventory management systems from electrical surges, keeping business operations sequential.
Even though zinc oxide lightning arresters are designed to provide long-term protection from adverse environmental elements, there are still some practices that can be adopted to better protect them:
Conducting regular inspections helps identify potential wear and tear or damage. Inspecting the arrester condition, checking for physical damage, and monitoring the pollution build-up will help keep the arresters in good condition.
Ensure the grounding system is intact and features low resistance. A good grounding system prevents the arrester from going into the conduction state unnecessarily while allowing any induced energy to be directed safely into the ground.
Keeping an eye on temperature, humidity, and pollution levels will help determine if additional maintenance is required. High temperatures can degrade the insulating materials of the arrester, while extreme humidity can lead to lightning surge arrester failure.
Luxuriously monitoring the arrester leads to identifying hot spots and verifying if there is any equipment overheating around the arrester. Using thermal shields or adequate heat sinks helps prevent overheating.
Utilizing proper installation methods ensures the arresters operate properly throughout their lifetime. Avoid misalignment, excessive mechanical stress, and improper cable connections.
Considerable derating involves installing arresters rated for lower voltages than the maximum voltage of the system. This practice inhibits unnecessary conduction during normal operating conditions.
Keeps arresters free from vegetation, birds, or any other physical obstructions; this will prevent any physical damage to the arrester and ensure it can discharge surges without interference.
A1: While traditional lightning arresters employed air gaps and spark over to disperse surges, modern 'gapless' zno arresters use Zinc Oxide crystals as a voltage-dependent resistor. This makes them more effective and reliable at surge suppression.
A2: Yes, Zno arresters are commonly used to protect solar photovoltaic systems and wind turbines from voltage spikes caused by lightning or switching operations.
A3: Their lifespan varies with operating conditions and environmental factors. However, they can last up to fifteen years or more when well cared for.
A4: They act as a diversion channel for excess surge energies, safely redirecting lightning strikes or voltage transients into the ground and away from nearby electrical systems.
A5: Yes, regular maintenance checks are crucial. They help identify wear and tear or damage while acting as a measure to ensure proper grounding and environmental monitoring.
