Electrical Surge Arresters

Electrical Surge Arresters

Electrical surge arresters, also known as lightning arresters or surge suppressors, are devices used to protect electrical systems and equipment from voltage surges caused by lightning strikes, power outages, or other electrical disturbances. These surges can cause significant damage to electrical equipment, leading to downtime, repair costs, and even safety hazards. Surge arresters work by diverting the excess voltage of a surge away from the protected equipment and into the ground. They typically consist of a metal oxide varistor (MOV) or gas discharge tube (GDT) connected between the electrical system and ground. When a surge occurs, the MOV or GDT conducts the excess voltage to ground, protecting the equipment downstream. There are several types of surge arresters available, including distribution-class, intermediate-class, and station-class. Distribution-class surge arresters are typically used in low-voltage applications, such as residential and commercial buildings, while intermediate-class and station-class surge arresters are used in high-voltage applications, such as power transmission and distribution systems. Proper installation and maintenance of surge arresters is critical to their effectiveness. Surge arresters should be installed as close as possible to the equipment they are protecting and should be periodically inspected and tested to ensure they are functioning properly.

lightning arresters, surge suppressors, voltage surges, metal oxide varistor, gas discharge tube

— Matthew Lopez

CITATION : "Matthew Lopez. 'Electrical Surge Arresters.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/define/electrical-surge-arresters?E=330074 (Accessed on October 14, 2026)"