Lightning Arrester

A lightning arrester, also known as a surge arrester or lightning diverter, is a device that is used to protect electrical systems and equipment from damage caused by lightning strikes or electrical surges. Lightning is a natural phenomenon that can generate high-voltage electrical currents that can travel through electrical wires and cause significant damage to electrical systems and equipment.A lightning arrester works by providing a low-resistance path for the electrical current to follow, diverting it away from the equipment and grounding it safely. This is achieved by using a metal oxide varistor (MOV), which is a type of resistor that is made of a ceramic material that has a highly non-linear resistance. When a surge of high voltage passes through the MOV, it conducts the current away from the equipment and towards the ground, where it is safely dissipated.There are different types of lightning arresters available, including station-class and distribution-class arresters. Station-class arresters are used in high-voltage power transmission systems, while distribution-class arresters are used in low-voltage distribution systems. Both types of arresters are designed to protect electrical equipment from lightning strikes and electrical surges.

• Key Features

  • Protection:

    The primary function of a lightning arrester is to protect electrical equipment from damage caused by lightning strikes and electrical surges.

  • Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV):

    Lightning arresters use a metal oxide varistor (MOV) to provide a low-resistance path for the electrical current to follow, diverting it away from the equipment and grounding it safely.

  • High Voltage Capacity:

    Lightning arresters are designed to handle high voltage surges and can effectively protect electrical equipment from lightning strikes.

  • Installation:

    Lightning arresters can be installed on the electrical equipment itself or on the electrical pole or tower that supports the equipment.

  • Different Types:

    There are different types of lightning arresters available, including station-class and distribution-class arresters, which are designed for different applications and voltage levels.

  • Reliability:

    Lightning arresters can help improve the reliability and efficiency of electrical systems by preventing damage and downtime caused by lightning strikes and electrical surges.

• Key Specifications

  • Maximum Continuous Operating Voltage (MCOV):

    The maximum voltage that the lightning arrester can withstand continuously without failure.

  • Maximum Discharge Current (MDC):

    The maximum current that the lightning arrester can handle during a surge event.

  • Voltage Protection Level (VPL):

    The maximum voltage that the lightning arrester allows to pass through to the equipment during a surge event.

  • Response Time:

    The time it takes for the lightning arrester to respond and start conducting during a surge event.

  • Installation Type:

    Whether the lightning arrester is designed for indoor or outdoor installation, and whether it can be mounted directly on the equipment or on a separate support structure.