Created by: Glen Zhu | Updated Date: March 3rd, 2025
As we all know, the application of electrical systems has become a cornerstone of modern life. From household appliances to industrial machinery, electric power nearly affect all human activities. However, this dependence on electrical infrastructure comes with inherent vulnerabilities, particularly the threat of surges.
Firstly , we should know what are surges and how they are come from. Actually, the concept of surges was gradually formed during the gradual popularization and development of power systems and electronic equipment. With the progress of electronic technology in the 20th century, people began to pay attention to and study this phenomenon.
A surge is a short-lived fluctuation of voltage and current, usually a violent pulse that lasts about a subtle order in a circuit. In modern electric system, surges are inevitable and they may stem from internal and external causes.
1. Direct lightning falls on the power grid, instantly generating huge energy, super destructive power;
2. Induced lightning, the high-speed changing electromagnetic field generated by lightning acts on the conductor, resulting in a high overvoltage, with a very steep leading edge and rapid attenuation;
3. Surge caused by lightning conduction;
4. Oscillating surge overvoltage;
1. Switching and short-circuit faults of load in system applications;
2. High-frequency surge voltage caused by frequent switching on and off of equipment;
According to the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), 60-80% of surges originate within facilities due to internal equipment operations,which debunks the myth that surge protection is only necessary in lightning-prone areas.
A single surge can degrade components over time or cause immediate failure. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) estimates that surge-related damage costs U.S. businesses over $26 billion annually.
2. Data Loss:
For enterprises, data loss from surges can erase years of critical information. Hospitals, financial institutions, and cloud service providers face existential risks.
3. Fire Hazards:
Extreme surges can overheat wiring insulation, potentially triggering electrical fires. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) attributes 12% of commercial building fires to electrical failures, and many cases related to surges.
Industrial facilities experiencing surge-induced shutdowns face production losses exceeding $100,000 per hour in sectors like automotive manufacturing or pharmaceuticals.
Even though surges last very short, they are still threatened to electric apparatus and personal safety due to the strong power. In order to avoid potential damage of apparatus and system, we need the help of surge protective device.
If we don’t use Surge protective device, we could save $200-$500.And when surges cause the damage, let’s count how much does it cost:
So we can see the spending time and costs are on maintenance are far exceed the price of the surge protective device. Acknowledging the risk, insurance companies start to regard SPD’s installation as a precondition for coverage.
Considering the damage of surge, we should use the proper SPD. Below are the key factors we should keep in mind:
If Power system,
10kV :Rated current capacity ≥ 10kA, maximum discharge current ≥ 50kA, and residual voltage value ≤ 2.5k.
35kV :Rated current capacity ≥ 20kA, maximum discharge current ≥ 100kA and residual voltage value ≤ 2.5kV.
110kV: Rated current capacity ≥ 40k, maximum discharge current ≥ 200kA, and residual voltage value ≤ 2.5kV.
If Information system,
Data center: Rated current capacity ≥ 10kA, maximum discharge current ≥ 50A, and residual voltage value ≤ 1.5kV.
Communication room: Rated current capacity ≥ 5kA, maximum discharge ≥ 25kA, and residual voltage value ≤ 1.5kV.
Monitoring system: Rated current capacity ≥ kA, maximum discharge current ≥ 10kA, and residual voltage value ≤ 1.5kV.
If household appliances,
Small power appliances (such as televisions, fans, etc.): Rated current capacity ≥2kA, maximum discharge current ≥ 10kA, and residual voltage value ≤ 1.5kV.
Medium power appliances (such as refriger, washing machines, etc.): Rated current capacity ≥ 5kA, maximum discharge current ≥ 25kA, and voltage value ≤ 1.5kV.
Large power appliances (such as air conditioners, water heaters, etc.): Rated capacity ≥ 10kA, maximum discharge current ≥ 50kA, and residual voltage value ≤ 1.5kV
4. UL Certification: Verify compliance with UL 1449 (3rd Edition) standards. And according to standard of NEMA 57-1,57-2(outdoors) and GB/T 17626.4,17626.5(indoors)
5. Monitoring Features: LED indicators or app-based alerts for worn-out protectors.
In conclusion，surge protection device are not only simple “power strips,” but also indispensable safety systems in modern electrical systems. With society’s reliance on electronics and the internet, surge protection device have evolved from an optional preventive measure to an absolute necessity. By understanding the risks of surges and deploying the SPD, individuals and organizations can prevent catastrophic losses, ensure operational continuity, better investment in electricity in the future.
LSP’s reliable surge protection devices (SPDs) are designed to meet the protection needs of installations against lightning and surges. Contact our Experts!
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