Top 10 Surge Arrester Manufacturers in the World 2024 - Jera Line

In today’s fast-paced world, electrical systems are at constant risk of surges, whether from lightning strikes, power grid fluctuations, or switching operations. These sudden spikes in voltage can wreak havoc on sensitive electronics, machinery, and infrastructure, leading to costly downtime and repairs. This is where surge arresters come in.

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Surge arresters, also known as overvoltage protectors, are critical components in safeguarding electrical systems from voltage spikes. Surge arresters work by redirecting excess voltage to the ground, ensuring that electrical systems, machinery, and devices remain protected from these harmful spikes.

But here's the catch: not all surge arresters are created equal – and that means there's plenty of choice out there! To guarantee the highest level of protection for your electrical systems, it's essential to partner with a reputable manufacturer known for their quality, reliability, and innovation. So, how do you find the perfect surge arrester manufacturer for your needs?

In this blog, we'll take you through the Top 10 Surge Arrester Manufacturers in the World for ! We'll showcase the industry leaders who deliver the best in surge protection technology. Whether you're looking to safeguard sensitive electronics or large-scale electrical infrastructures, this guide will help you make an informed choice!

List of the Top 10 Surge Arrester Manufacturers in the World 

1. 1. Jera Line Co., Ltd.
2. 2. Siemens Energy
3. 3. ABB
4. 4. Schneider Electric
5. 5. Eaton
6. 6. GE Grid Solutions
7. 7. Tridelta Meidensha GmbH
8. 8. Toshiba Corporation
9. 9. Mitsubishi Electric
10. 10. Hitachi Energy

1.Jera Line Co., Ltd.

Established: 

Headquarter: Yuyao, Ningbo, China

Profile:

Jera Line Co., Ltd., established in , specializes in manufacturing electrical power cables and surge arresters. Based in Yuyao, Ningbo, China, the company is known for its high-quality metal-oxide surge arresters, designed to protect electrical systems from voltage surges. These surge arresters respond in nanoseconds, preventing damage to sensitive equipment and ensuring continuous operation. Jera’s products meet international standards, including ISO certification, and are widely used in power distribution, telecommunications, and industrial applications.

Products:

• Metal-Oxide Surge Arresters
• Low-Voltage and Medium-Voltage Electrical Power Cables
• OEM & ODM Cable Infrastructure Solutions

Comment:

Jera Line Co., Ltd. is the go-to manufacturer for metal-oxide surge arresters! Their products are known for their lightning-fast response to voltage spikes, protecting electrical equipment and ensuring minimal downtime. Jera's ISO certification and adherence to IEC standards make their products an absolutely reliable choice for industries like power distribution and telecommunications. With their seasoned team and cutting-edge production facilities, they're taking the industry by storm. Their solutions are not only extending the life of electrical systems but also enhancing operational safety. I highly recommend Jera Line Co., Ltd. to anyone in need of reliable surge arresters for their electrical infrastructure.

2.Siemens Energy

Established: 

Headquarter: Munich, Germany

Profile:

Siemens Energy, established in after being spun off from Siemens AG, has a long history in overvoltage protection, dating back to . The company is a global leader in energy technology, known for its high-quality medium- and high-voltage surge arresters. These surge arresters protect critical equipment such as transformers, generators, and switchgear from overvoltages caused by power surges or lightning strikes. Siemens Energy invests heavily in research and development, ensuring their products are reliable, durable, and meet international standards. Their surge arresters are recognized for easy installation, low maintenance costs, and long service life, making them a preferred choice in both industrial and utility applications worldwide.

Products:

• Medium-Voltage Surge Arresters
• High-Voltage Surge Arresters
• Surge Arresters for Special Applications (e.g., traction vehicles, generators, and switchgear)
• Overvoltage Protection Solutions for Industrial Equipment

Comment:

Siemens Energy is the clear leader in the surge arrester market, with a long history of excellence and a relentless commitment to innovation. The company's surge arresters are the best on the market, offering unmatched protection against voltage surges and ensuring the safety and reliability of critical electrical infrastructure. Siemens Energy's commitment to quality and adherence to international standards guarantees that their products will last for a long time and perform perfectly every time! Siemens Energy is a global presence with decades of expertise.

3.ABB

Established: 

Headquarter: Zurich, Switzerland

Profile:

Founded in , ABB is a global leader in electrification and automation, with a focus on sustainable and resource-efficient solutions. The company has over 105,000 employees worldwide and is known for its innovation in protecting electrical systems. ABB’s surge arresters, including SPD Class I, II, and III devices, provide reliable protection against both large and small surges, such as lightning and internal power anomalies. These surge arresters are widely used in industrial applications, power distribution, and data centers to safeguard sensitive equipment. ABB’s OVR product line and external lightning protection solutions highlight their versatility in offering tailored surge protection for diverse industries.

Products:

• Surge Protective Devices (SPD) Class I, II, III
• OVR Surge Arresters (e.g., OVR PV, OVR SL)
• Data Line Surge Protection
• External Lightning Protection
• SPD Accessories

Comment:

ABB is the go-to name in surge protection, thanks to its impressive range of surge arresters. The company's commitment to innovation and sustainability is evident in the cutting-edge technology behind its surge protective devices. ABB's surge arresters are your ideal choice for safeguarding against both large and small surges, making them perfect for industries that rely on uninterrupted operation and sensitive equipment.

4.Schneider Electric

Established: 

Headquarter: Rueil-Malmaison, France

Profile:

Founded in , Schneider Electric is a world leader in energy management and automation, with a focus on sustainability and resource efficiency. The company's surge arresters are an integral part of protecting electrical systems from power surges, and are commonly used in industrial plants, smart buildings and data centers. Schneider Electric combines advanced technologies such as IoT and AI in its surge protection solutions to ensure reliability, efficiency and low maintenance. Its surge arresters are recognized for providing high-quality protection, contributing to the safety and longevity of critical infrastructure around the world.

Products:

• Surge Arresters for Industrial Applications
• Surge Protection Devices for Data Centers
• Surge Arresters for Electrical Grids and Smart Buildings
• Overvoltage Protection Solutions with AI and IoT Integration

Comment:

Schneider Electric is truly a powerhouse in the surge arrester market, offering exceptional protection for electrical systems against damaging surges. Their products are not just effective; they're also packed with advanced features for long-term reliability and low maintenance needs. What sets Schneider apart is the seamless integration of IoT and AI into their overvoltage protection solutions, enhancing efficiency and performance.

5.Eaton

Established: 

Headquarter: Dublin, Ireland

Profile:

Eaton, established in , is a global leader in power management, providing overvoltage protection through its surge arresters. Their Cooper Power Series Evolution surge arresters set the standard for polymeric distribution-class arresters, offering advanced features such as low discharge voltage and high TOV capability. Eaton's surge arresters are used in a variety of applications, including overhead, riser-pole, and underground distribution networks, ensuring reliable protection for critical infrastructure. The company is committed to sustainability, innovation, and delivering energy-efficient, safe products that contribute to the global transition to cleaner energy.

Products:

• Cooper Power Series Evolution Surge Arresters
• Polymer Distribution-Class Arresters (up to 36 kV)
• Overhead and Riser-Pole Surge Arresters
• Underground Distribution Surge Arresters
• Surge Protection Solutions for Power Grids and Critical Infrastructure

Comment:

Eaton's surge arresters are the perfect choice for keeping your critical infrastructure safe from electrical surges! They're built to last and provide superior protection, so you can rest easy knowing your equipment is in good hands. With a focus on performance and environmental sustainability, Eaton offers industry-leading solutions that reduce costs and extend the lifespan of electrical systems. The company’s surge arresters are recognized for their efficiency and reliability, particularly in challenging conditions like high temporary overvoltage (TOV) environments. Eaton’s commitment to innovation and power management ensures that their surge arresters continue to meet the evolving needs of global industries, making them a trusted partner for surge protection worldwide.

6.GE Grid Solutions

Established:  (surge arresters introduced)

Headquarter: Paris, France

Profile:

GE Grid Solutions, a GE Vernova business, specializes in providing advanced overvoltage protection through its innovative surge arresters. Established in , GE has continuously evolved its technology to meet the demands of modern power systems. GE’s surge arresters, such as the TRANQUELL range, include both porcelain and polymer options, designed for distribution and extra-high voltage (EHV) applications. These arresters are built using cutting-edge metal oxide varistor (MOV) technology, offering exceptional voltage suppression, aging resistance, and reliability in harsh environmental conditions. GE surge arresters meet ANSI/IEEE C62.11 standards, ensuring robust performance and long-term protection for critical infrastructure in power grids worldwide.

Products:

• ANSI Surge Arresters
• IEC Surge Arresters
• Polymer/Porcelain Station & Intermediate Class IEEE/ANSI C62.11 Surge Arresters
• TRANQUELL Surge Arresters

Comment:

GE Grid Solutions is the industry leader in surge arrester technology! They combine advanced MOV formulations with a gapless construction design to create some of the most reliable and efficient surge arresters on the market. Their products are known for their high mechanical strength, moisture resistance, and excellent aging resistance. With a wide range of solutions for both distribution and EHV applications, GE is the trusted partner in safeguarding electrical grids!

7.Tridelta Meidensha GmbH

Established: 

Headquarter: Frankfurt, Germany

Profile:

Tridelta Meidensha GmbH has been a leading manufacturer of surge arresters since its founding in . The company specializes in providing high-voltage surge protection, with a range of products designed for applications up to 800 kV. Their surge arresters are widely used to protect electrical systems in environments with high mechanical stress, such as regions with seismic activity, and areas prone to environmental challenges like deserts, coastal regions, or polluted areas. Tridelta offers surge arresters with both porcelain and silicone housings. The company’s surge arresters are renowned for their excellent sealing systems, preventing moisture ingress and ensuring maintenance-free operation for decades.

Products:

• SB Series Surge Arresters (Porcelain Housing)
• SBKC and SBKT Surge Arresters (Silicone Housing)
• Surge Arresters for Medium and High Voltage (up to 800 kV)
• DC Surge Arresters

Comment:

Tridelta Meidensha is a well-known and well-loved name in the world of surge protection. They have a fantastic range of products designed to keep your critical electrical infrastructure safe and sound, even in the most challenging environments. They really know their stuff when it comes to both porcelain and silicone surge arresters! And they're super focused on using only the best materials, like LSR silicone. Plus, they make sure their products are reliable and maintenance-free, and they're always there to help with any environmental challenges. So, it's no wonder they're a trusted partner in the global energy sector!

8.Toshiba Corporation

Established: 

Headquarter: Tokyo, Japan

Profile:

Toshiba Corporation, established in , is a global leader in surge arrester technology. They offer a broad range of surge protection products for high-voltage applications, including porcelain and polymer-type arresters, with voltage ratings from 69 kV to 765 kV. Toshiba’s surge arresters, using high-performance zinc-oxide elements, are known for their compact size and lightweight design, reducing shipping costs and installation footprint.

Products:

• Surge Arresters for Distribution and Substation Equipment (69 to 765 kV)
• Porcelain-Type Surge Arresters
• Polymer-Type Surge Arresters
• Gas Insulated Substations (GIS)
• Transmission Line Surge Arresters

Comment:

Toshiba’s century-long experience and leadership in surge arrester technology make it a standout company in the power protection industry. Their products, leveraging advanced zinc-oxide technology, provide superior protection against voltage surges while being significantly more compact and lightweight than traditional designs. This not only reduces installation and shipping costs but also enhances the overall efficiency of electrical grids. Toshiba’s surge arresters are widely trusted across the globe, and their diverse product offerings, ranging from low to high voltage systems, allow them to serve a wide range of industries, from utilities to industrial sectors. The company's amazing commitment to innovation and reliability has made them one of the best providers of surge protection solutions in the whole wide world!

9.Mitsubishi Electric

Established: 

Headquarter: Tokyo, Japan

Profile:

Mitsubishi Electric, founded in and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, has a long-standing history in the power systems industry. The company is recognized for its high-reliability products and solutions in power generation, transmission, and distribution, with a focus on sustainability. Mitsubishi Electric is known for its expertise in manufacturing surge arresters, including the high-voltage 500kV insulator-type designed for transformer protection. These surge arresters are essential for safeguarding power networks from transient overvoltages, such as lightning strikes, ensuring reliable operation in power distribution systems.

Products:

• Surge arresters (including 500kV insulator-type for transformers)

Comment:

Mitsubishi Electric stands out in the surge arrester market due to its long-standing commitment to innovation and quality. Their surge arresters are recognized for their high reliability and are used in critical applications such as power generation and distribution. Mitsubishi Electric's surge arresters are a testament to their technological prowess and their ability to adapt and innovate in the face of evolving industry needs.

10.Hitachi Energy

Headquarter: Switzerland

Profile:

Hitachi Energy has been a leader in power systems for over a century, specializing in the design and manufacture of surge arresters. The company’s surge arresters are essential for protecting electrical equipment from overvoltages caused by lightning or switching operations. The surge arresters are made using metal-oxide (MO) resistors molded directly in silicone housing, offering superior performance and reliability. Designed and tested according to IEC -4 and IEC -1 standards, these surge arresters are widely used in a variety of applications, including AC/DC railway networks, transformers, cable systems, and distribution networks.

Products:

• POLIM-D Surge Arrester
• POLIM-K Surge Arrester
• Surge Arrester MWK

Comment:

Hitachi Energy's surge arresters exemplify the company's dedication to innovation and safety. Their products, like the POLIM-D series, offer reliable overvoltage protection across various applications, enhancing the resilience of electrical systems globally. The company's commitment to sustainability and digital transformation underscores their position as a leader in surge arrester technology, providing essential solutions for a secure and eco-friendly energy future.

Conclusion

After reviewing the Top 10 Surge Arrester Manufacturers in the World , several key advantages stand out across these industry leaders:

• Advanced Technology & Innovation
• Global Expertise & Reliability:
• Wide Range of Applications

Among these industry giants, Jera stands out for its ability to deliver high-performance surge arresters, offering not only advanced protection technology but also excellent customer support and global service networks. Their products are engineered to meet the most demanding power system challenges, ensuring longevity and reliable protection.

For more information, please visit ZheXi.

If you're looking for a manufacturer with a proven track record and a focus on cutting-edge technology, Jera is an excellent choice.

A guide to surge arrester selection, application, maintenance and testing. Photo: TestGuy.

Surge arresters are voltage-limiting devices used to protect electrical insulation from voltage spikes in a power system. Similar to how a fuse functions to protect an electrical system from damage due to overcurrent conditions, the role of a surge arrester is to safeguard the system from damage caused by overvoltage conditions.

In the past, surge arresters were called lightning arresters. This name was based on their primary objective of protecting electrical insulation from lightning strikes on the system. The more generic term “surge arrester” is now used to encompass overvoltage conditions that can occur from numerous other sources, such as switching operations and ground faults.

Everything, from personal computers to HV transmission and distribution systems, is susceptible to electrical surges and their destructive effects.

Contents

1. What is an electrical surge?
2. Surge Arrester Construction, Types, Classes and Properties
3. Arrester Selection and Application
4. MCOV Rating
5. Temporary overvoltages (TOV) Rating
6. Basic Impulse Level (BIL)
7. Arrester Failure & Pressure Relief
8. Surge Arrester Field Maintenance and Testing
9. Codes and Standards
10. References

What is an electrical surge?

A “surge” on an electrical system results from energy being impressed on the system at some point, which can occur due to lightning strikes or system operations. The impressed energy travels throughout the system in the form of waves, with a speed and magnitude that vary along with the parameters of the system.

A “surge” on an electrical system results from energy being impressed on the system at some point, which can result from lightning strikes or system operations. Photo: Schnider Electric.

Each type of surge can affect the surge arrester and insulation system differently. Lightning results in a fast rate of rise because it’s a true source of coulomb energy, while switching operations result in a relatively slow rate of rise because their energy is stored in the magnetic fields of the system.

Along with surge phenomena, a system can also experience a longer-term overvoltage from electrical faults. Depending on the configuration and grounding of the system, a single line-to-ground fault will cause the system voltage on the unaffected phases to escalate.

Surge Arrester Construction, Types, Classes and Properties

Per the National Electrical Code (NEC), a surge arrester is defined as: “A protective device for limiting surge voltages by discharging or bypassing surge current, and it also prevents the flow of follow current while remaining capable of repeating these functions.”

The original lightning arrester was nothing more than a spark air gap, with one side connected to a line conductor and the other side connected to earth ground. When the line-to-ground voltage reached the spark-over level, the voltage surge would be discharged to earth ground.

Older surge arresters generally consist of silicon carbide resistor blocks in series with air gaps. These arresters normally carry no current and have a single voltage rating. Aside from a few exceptions, the selection of these arresters is fairly simple:

For solidly grounded systems, the next higher arrester rating above the system line-to-neutral voltage is used. For resistance grounded or ungrounded systems, the next higher rating above the system line-to-line voltage is used.

Metal oxide surge arresters contain blocks of variable resistance material, usually zinc oxide, with no air gaps. Line-to-ground voltage is applied continuously between the line and ground terminals of the arrester. These arresters do carry a minimal leakage current that can be withstood on a continuing basis.

Metal oxide surge arresters contain blocks of a variable resistance material, usually zinc oxide, with no air gaps. Photo: EATON / Cooper Power Systems.

The surge arrester’s minimal leakage current is primarily capacitive, with a small resistive component. When surges occur, the arrester immediately limits, or clamps, the overvoltage condition by conducting the surge current to ground. After the passage of the surge, the arrester returns to its initial state.

Metal oxide has many advantages as a surge protector, but it is somewhat more complicated than older surge arresters to apply correctly. Instead of a single voltage rating, metal oxide surge arresters have three ratings:

1. Nominal voltage
2. Maximum continuous operating voltage (MCOV) - about 85% of the nominal rating
3. One-second temporary overvoltage capability. - about 120% of the nominal rating

Arrester Classes

The class of surge arrester to be applied on a system depends upon the importance and value of the protected equipment, the impulse insulation level, and the expected discharge currents the arrester must withstand.

It is important that surge arresters of the correct voltage rating be used. Photo: pxhere.

• Station class arresters are designed for protection of equipment that may be exposed to significant energy due to line switching surges and at locations where significant fault current is available. They have superior electrical performance because their energy absorption capabilities are greater. Station class arresters are the top choice for protecting valuable equipment where high reliability operation is required.

• Intermediate class arresters are designed to provide economic and reliable protection of medium voltage class electrical power equipment. Intermediate arresters are commonly used for the protection of dry-type transformers, for use in switching and sectionalizing equipment and for the protection of URD cables.

• Distribution class arresters can be found on smaller liquid-filled and dry-type transformers kVA and less. These arresters can also be used for application at the terminals of rotating machines below kVA, if available in the proper voltage rating. The distribution arrester is often used out on exposed lines that are directly connected to rotating machines.

• Secondary class arresters are utilized for voltages 999V or less. These are applied in low-voltage distribution systems, electrical appliances, and low-voltage distribution transformer windings.

Arrester Selection and Application

The primary objective in arrester application is to select the lowest-rated surge arrester that will provide adequate protection of the equipment insulation and be rated such that it will have a satisfactory service life when connected to the power system.

Various types of surge arresters. Photo: Wikimedia Commons.

The proper voltage rating of surge arresters depends on:

1. The system line-to-line voltage
2. The method of system grounding
3. Type of surge arrester used

The best location for the installation of a surge arrester is as close as possible to the equipment it’s protecting, preferably at the terminals where the service is connected to the equipment. It is important that surge arresters of the correct voltage rating be used.

Equipment Protection vs. Arrester Service Life

There is a delicate balance between equipment protection and service life of a surge arrester:

• Lower arrester ratings are preferred because they provide the highest margin of protection for the equipment insulation system but increase the chance of failure.

• Higher arrester ratings may prolong the service life of an arrester but reduce the margin of protection provided for the equipment its protecting.

Both issues of arrester service life and equipment protection should considered when selecting surge arresters. If different ratings are required, the highest resulting surge arrester rating should be chosen.

Surge Arrester Selection and Application Process

A comprehensive surge arrester selection and application process should include a review of:

1. All system stresses (continuous operating voltage, temporary overvoltages, and switching surges)
2. Service conditions expected
3. System-grounding configuration (grounded or effectively ungrounded) at the arrester installation location.

Knowing the system configuration (wye/delta, grounded, or ungrounded) is a key factor in selecting an arrester rating. Arrester nominal ratings for various utilization system voltages (line-to-line) are based on the system’s grounding configuration.

Choosing the correct arrester rating is critical to prevent an application where the arrester can potentially have a violent failure. Any system other than a solidly grounded configuration is considered to be effectively ungrounded, and a higher arrester rating should be chosen.

MCOV Rating

Arresters are continually exposed to the power system operating voltage during normal operation. For each arrester rating, there is a recommended limit to the magnitude of voltage that may be applied continuously. This is called the Maximum Continuous Operating Voltage (MCOV).

The arrester rating is selected so that the maximum continuous power system voltage applied to the arrester is less than or equal to the arrester’s MCOV rating. Both the circuit configuration (wye or delta) and arrester connection (Line-to-Ground or Line-to-Line) are taken into consideration.

• In most cases the arresters are connected line-to-ground.
• If arresters are connected line-to-line, then phase-to-phase voltage must be considered.

Special attention should be given to the grounding configuration of the system, either solidly grounded or effectively ungrounded (impedance/resistance grounded, ungrounded, or temporarily ungrounded). This is a key factor in the selection and application of an arrester.

If the system grounding configuration is unknown, assume the system is ungrounded. This will result in choosing an arrester with a higher continuous system voltage and/or MCOV rating.

The arrester rating is selected so that the maximum continuous power system voltage applied to the arrester is less than, or equal to, the arrester’s MCOV rating. Photo: General Electric.

MCOV Example 1: 13.8kV Solidly Grounded System

The continuous operating voltage is 13,800 divided by the square root of 3, or V. This is above the MCOV of 7,650 V for an arrester rated 9 kV.

Depending on the magnitude and duration of system overvoltages, it may be necessary to use a 10 kV arrester with an MCOV of 8.4 kV or a 12 kV arrester with an MCOV of 10.2 kV.

MCOV Example 2: Resistance-grounded 13.8 kV system

Depending on the time needed for protective relays to clear ground faults off the system, the choice will be between arresters rated 12 kV, 15 kV and 18 kV.

MCOV Example 3: 13.8kV Ungrounded System

The 12.7 kV MCOV of a 15 kV arrester is not adequate for a nominal voltage of 13.8kV. Use an 18 kV arrester with an MCOV of 15.3 kV.

Temporary overvoltages (TOV) Rating

Temporary overvoltages can be caused by numerous system events, such as switching surges, line-to-ground faults, load rejection, and ferroresonance. The system configuration and operating practices are evaluated to identify the forms and causes of TOV.

The primary effect of temporary overvoltages on metal-oxide arresters is the increased current, power dissipation, and increased arrester temperature. These conditions affect the protection and survivability characteristics of the arrester.

Surge Arrester TOV curve example. Photo: EATON / Cooper Power Systems.

The surge arrester’s TOV capability must meet or exceed the expected temporary overvoltages of the system.

Basic Impulse Level (BIL) and Surge Arresters

Surge arresters are selected in coordination with standard electrical equipment insulation levels so that they will protect the insulation against overvoltages. This coordination is based on selecting an arrester that will discharge at a lower voltage level than the impulse voltage required to break down the insulation.

Related: Electrical Power System Studies Explained

Most electrical equipment is rated for impulse levels as defined by industry standards. The Basic Impulse Insulation Level (BIL) of equipment is determined by applying a full-wave voltage surge of a specified crest value to the equipment insulation; this is known as the Impulse Test.

Arrester Failure & Pressure Relief

If the service capability of a surge arrester is exceeded, the metal-oxide disk(s) may crack or puncture, reducing the arrester’s internal electrical resistance. This reduction of resistance will limit the arrester’s ability to withstand future overvoltages, but it will not jeopardize the insulation properties of the arrester.

Surge Arrester Nameplate and Ratings Example. Photo: EATON / Cooper Power Systems.

In the event that an arrester fails, a line-ground arc will develop, and pressure will build up inside the arrester housing. The pressure is safely vented to the outside, and an external arc will be established, maintaining equipment protection.

Once an arrester has safely vented, it’s no longer capable of pressure relief and should be replaced immediately. Arresters should have a pressure/fault current capability greater than the maximum short-circuit current available at the intended arrester location.

Surge Arrester Field Maintenance and Testing

To help ensure maximum service life and reduce the chances of sudden failure, surge arresters should be maintained and electrically tested at regular intervals. Inspection and testing should also be performed as part of new installations prior to commissioning.

Field testing of surge arresters can help extend service life and reduce the chances of sudden failure. Photo: Senior Airman Perry Aston (USAF).

A comprehensive outline for testing surge arresters is described below. Only qualified workers with the proper safety training and calibrated testing equipment should perform these tasks.

Visual/Mechanical Inspection

The physical and mechanical condition of the surge arrester should be evaluated before any testing is performed. For new installations, compare the arrester nameplate data with project drawings and specifications.

Inspect the arrester housing, mounting, alignment, grounding, and required clearances. Surge arresters should be clean and free of obstructions to minimize contaminants that may lead to tracking or be harmful to the arrester’s insulating properties. Prior to cleaning the unit, perform as-found tests to compare results.

Related: Cleaning Methods for Electrical Preventive Maintenance

The physical and mechanical condition of the surge arrester should be evaluated before any testing is performed. Photo: Paul Chernikhowsky via Flickr.

Surge Arrester Lead Inspection

Lead length for the connection of the surge arrester to the equipment terminals and to ground should be minimized and installed as straight as possible, minimizing bends in the leads. Increases in the lead length will reduce the protection capabilities of the surge arrester due to the additional increase of impedance in the lead.

Inspect Bolted Connections

Bolted electrical connections should be inspected for high resistance by using a low-resistance ohmmeter. Compare the measured resistance values to the values of similar connections.

Values which deviate from those of similar bolted connections by more than 50 percent of the lowest value should be investigated.

Tightness of accessible bolted electrical connections may also be verified by using a calibrated torque wrench in accordance with manufacturer’s published data or NETA Table 100.12.

Related: Fastener Torque in Electrical Systems: Understanding the Basics of Mechanical Connections

Grounding Checks

Verify that each surge arrester ground lead is individually attached to a ground bus or ground electrode. Point-to-point tests can be performed to determine the resistance between the main grounding system and individual arrester ground points. The resistance between the surge arrester ground terminal and the ground system should be less than 0.5 ohm per NETA standards.

Related: 4 Important Methods of Ground Resistance Testing

Insulation Resistance

Perform insulation-resistance tests on each arrester, phase terminal-to-ground. Apply voltage in accordance with manufacturer’s literature. If the surge arrester manufacturer’s data is unavailable, NETA Table 100.1 can be used as a supplement. Values of insulation resistance less than manufacturer’s recommendations or those in NETA Table 100.1 should be investigated.

Related: Insulation Resistance Test Methods, A Beginners Guide

ANSI/NETA Recommended Insulation Resistance Values for Surge Arresters. Photo: NETA-MTS .

Watt Loss Test

The measurement of dielectric loss is effective in detecting defective, contaminated, and deteriorated arresters. Watts loss values are evaluated on a comparison basis with similar units and test equipment manufacturer’s published data.

Arrester assemblies consisting of single units per phase are generally tested by the grounded-specimen test method (GST). All arresters should be tested individually and not in parallel. The watt-loss test is an optional test per NETA acceptance and maintenance testing standards.

Related: 3 Basic Modes of Power Factor Testing Explained

Surge Arrester Watt Loss Test Connections. Photo: Doble.
Surge Arrester Watt Loss Test Procedure Example. Photo: Doble.
Surge Arrester Watt Loss Recommended Test Voltage. Photo: Doble.

Stroke Counter

Stroke counters measure lightning strikes by the induction of current and do not require the use of any external power source. Verify that the stroke counter, if present, is correctly mounted and electrically connected. Record the stroke counter reading to compare with previous records.

Arrester Standards and Codes

• Surge arresters are designed and tested per ANSI/IEEE C62.1, Standard for Gapped Silicone-Carbide Surge Arresters for AC Power Circuits, for the gapped type and ANSI/IEEE C62.11, Standard for Metal-Oxide Surge Arresters for Alternating Current Systems, for the gapless type.

• Article 280 of the NFPA 70/National Electrical Code governs surge arrester’s general requirements, installation requirements and connection requirements.

• Surge arresters are listed by UL under the category of, Surge Arresters (OWHX), and other NRTLs (Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories) using the applicable sections of the ANSI/IEEE standards noted above.

Related: Electrical Standards and Regulatory Organizations Explained

Want more information on Zinc Oxide Arrester Manufacturer? Feel free to contact us.

References