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Lightning arresters are of many types, and makers choose them according to the system, service conditions, voltage level, and norms. There are three significant categories classified by function and voltage grade:
Classifications Based on Operating Voltage
Low-voltage lightning arresters serve structures and networks with voltages below 1,000V. These include devices installed on consumer electrical systems, switchboards, and power distribution panels. Medium-voltage arresters are for networks operating between 1kV to 36kV. They are installed on substations, feeder lines, and industrial systems. High-voltage arresters apply to transmission lines and equipment with voltages exceeding 36kV. They are employed on high-voltage power lines and large substations.
Classifications Based on the Operational Principle
These types include:
The two features are that they can conduct heavy currents like non-gap arresters and have the ability to discharge surges like gap arresters.
Classifications Based on Installation Mode
There are suspension arresters. These are installed on high-voltage power lines and are used in power systems comprising overhead lines. The insulating structure suspends the arrestor from the power line. Also, there are cross-arm arresters. These are mounted on substations or pole cross-arms, protecting nearby power equipment. They are fixed directly to the overhead line among power lines. Line post arresters are mounted directly to a power line. They protect overhead power lines and equipment from surge voltages. There are self-supporting arrestors that do not require external insulation. They support themselves on a pole or structure.
Electrical Power Industry
High voltage lines, substations, and other electrical equipment have lightning protection devices. They ensure arresters keep the safety level in power generation, transmission, and distribution. Also, they enhance system dependability and minimize downtime.
Oil and Gas Industry
In the industry, facilities like oil rigs and pipelines have arresters. These protect critical sensor, control, and communication systems from electrical surges. This protection ensures safety in preventing fires, explosions, and system damage in remote areas.
Telecommunications Industry
Telecommunication towers and satellite ground stations have arresters protecting their equipment. They maintain operational reliability, particularly in areas of frequent lightning.
Mining Industry
To protect underground and surface mining equipment and systems from lightning surge. Lightning protection equipment is critical in maintaining safety and message systems.
Agricultural Industry
Farming facilities use arresters protecting electrical equipment for irrigation, ventilation, and automated systems. Central arrestors protect vital equipment in agricultural environments, enhancing system dependability.
Transportation and Aviation Industry
In aviation, lightning arrestors protect airport radar, communication, and navigation equipment. They keep the equipment on planes and improve safety and operational efficiency. Also, they integrate into electrical systems of ground transportation for bus, train, and shipping systems.
Commercial and Residential Buildings
In commercial and residential structures, lightning protection devices have electrical systems. They protect from power surges through the wiring, safeguarding appliances, HVAC, and electronic systems. This protection avoids damage to the equipment, which can be costly, and maintains service continuity.
Data Centers and IT Infrastructure
In the digital age, data centers are crucial for storing information and supporting mainframe operations. Arresters protect servers, storage systems, and networking equipment in data centers. These protect against lightning surges. This protection maintains data integrity and system operational reliability.
Voltage Rating
The voltage rating may vary according to the level of usage. The voltage rating of a gap type lightning arrester should not be higher than 5000 volts. The voltage rating of non-gap lightning arresters should not be above 10,000 volts. For the rest of the lightning surge protectors, voltage rating should be no more than 1,50000 volts.
Energy Absorption Capacity
Higher energy absorption leads to better protection against lightning strikes.
Temperature Coefficient
The temperature coefficient determines the materials of the device. These include silicon carbon and metal oxide. They offer excellent surge protection. Each of these materials operates efficiently under high heat and changes in environment temperature.
Insulation
Silicone rubber encapsulation is used in lightning protection devices. This protects them from harsh environments. It helps in keeping the device components in place and in insulation safeguarding it from electrical surge.
Certifications
To ensure the product's safety and reliability, it is essential to consider standards and certifications. Look out for products compliant with international standards. These include IEC 62305 and UL 1449. They ensure electrical surge protectors undergo rigorous testing for performance and safety.
Site Assessment
The first installation step is a comprehensive assessment of the target systems and environments. The exercise identifies potential lightning risks. Understand the system voltage levels, whether it is a low voltage, medium voltage, or high voltage. Evaluate the surrounding environment and topography. This determines whether the area has a history of frequent lightning strikes and the extent of exposure.
Design System
After the assessment, the next step is designing a lightning protection system. It has a configuration that incorporates the type and number of arresters needed. The design is based on the risk assessment data and system specifications. Use simulation software to create a system design. It models the expected lightning currents and voltages, evaluating the design performance.
Prepare for Installation
A day before installation, gather all the needed materials, tools, and equipment. Also, ensure there is safety for the working crew. Conduct a briefing that covers the installation plan and safety protocols. Set up the work area securely to prepare for the installation process safely.
Install
The perform the installation properly following the design. Mount the arrester in the correct position and connect it to the grounding system and the protected equipment. Ensure the installation team follows the safety measures without negotiating on the security of the working area.
No product is eternal as maintenance is paramount in keeping the light protection systems functional. Regular checkups enhance many things. First, there is improved lifespan. The system is made to last for longer; also, there is sustained performance as constant maintenance leads to better performance. One is protected against lightning surges, and operational dependability is assured with maintenance.
Regular Inspections
In regular inspections, check for physical damage in the devices. Also, look at grounding connections and wire integrity. The inspection occurs every six months in normal conditions and every three months in highly exposed environments. Use visual and thermographic examination methods to identify physical concerns like wear, damage, or overheating. Carrying out the activity by qualified personal ensures comprehensive inspections.
Testing System Functionality
The system is routinely put under tests for proper working. Verify the operational status of each part of the device. Also, evaluate the overall system performance and compare it to the set standards. Conduct tests to evaluate arrestor response to surges. Testing occurs on six-month intervals in normal conditions and on quarterly basis in highly exposed environments.
Timely Repairs and Replacements
Quick repairs of damaged parts keep the system safer. The repair is not so timely when a replacement of an entire component has to be done. Replace worn-out or damaged parts with original manufacturer products. Carrying out repairs and replacements by the manufacturer or certified professionals maintains system integrity.
Surge Protection Capabilities
Look for the devices with higher voltage and current ratings. They mean that they can handle many surges. These devices have advanced technologies like thermal protection features and resistance to premium modes. They minimize damage caused by lightning surges.
Compatibility and Application
Consider the compatibility of the device with the system. After that, the selection should be based on the application requirements. Factors to consider include system voltage, environment, and installation type. These factors include whether the system is low, medium, or high voltage indoors or outdoors.
Manufacturer Reputation
A manufacturer's track record in producing reliable apprehending devices is important. This information is based on user feedback, ratings. Also, consider the manufacturer's involvement in research and development. Manufacturers with long-term experience in making lightning protection devices produce innovative products.
Certifications and Standards Compliance
Ensure the device complies with important industry standards. These include IEC and UL. Devices meeting these standards are assured to offer reliable performance and safety, as previously mentioned. The selection process should consider products with recognized certifications. This ensures the product complies with safety and performance.
Cost vs. Performance
Budget is an important factor when deciding not to compromise safety. Lightning arresters come with many prices. Never go for cheap products that come with many costs in the future. Assess lifecycle cost and long-term benefits of avoiding lightning system surge. Also, consider arresters with low maintenance.
For an indoor installation to be effective, it should be integrated with an overall lightning protection system.
It depends on the environment. It is advisable that in normal condition, maintenance be done at least once in six months. In extreme conditions, do it every three months.
Surge protection capability, environment, installation type, and system voltage are the crucial factors.
No, they do not protect structural property but safeguard electrical systems, components, and devices from lightning surges.
