Surge is defined as a very fast, short-term, high-voltage variation above 110% of nominal. It is often sparked by lightning, line or capacitor switching, or the disconnection of heavy loads. Also sometimes referred to as transient voltages, these random, high-energy electrical disturbances occur for 1 to 10 microseconds. As such, surges should not be confused with longer-duration events such as swells or temporary overvoltages. 

The excess voltage caused by a direct or indirect lightning strike can easily overwhelm unprotected devices, ranging from printers and copiers to vital computers, data servers, and phone systems, by overvolting and shorting out the device. Even if nothing is immediately destroyed, the increased strain can cause premature failure of expensive components over time.

Practically, your incredibly expensive piece of vital electronic equipment is now an incredibly expensive lesson about the importance of proper lightning surge protection devices.

Investing in lightning surge protection devices shows you understand the dangers of power surges and failures. While you might know about the risk power surges pose to electrical devices, you’ll also want to consider their hazards to human health and safety. It’s important to note that surge protection devices will not keep your equipment operational during a blackout, but damaging surges occur much more frequently than power outages. 

Generally, surge protection devices are classified into three types. These include:

• Type 1 surge protection devices feature spark gap technology. They discharge partial lightning current by attaching themselves to the service entrance.
• Type 2 surge protection devices utilize Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV) technology. They prevent the spread of overvoltage in electrical installations and protect connected equipment. As a result, they’re crucial for factories and organizations seeking surge protection.
• Type 3 surge protection devices exist that have low discharge capacity. Experts recommend installing them to supplement type 2 surge protection devices.

Lightning Eliminators has a wide range of lightning surge protection devices (SPD) for different environments that adapt to the most demanding requirements. Selecting the ideal SPD isn’t a simple endeavor. You must conduct a risk assessment to identify the surge protection you require.

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