What Is Electrical Voltage Surges?

Electrical voltage surges are a phenomenon that often occurs suddenly and can cause serious damage to electrical equipment, both at home and in industrial settings. Although invisible to the naked eye, the effects of these surges can be felt and are highly detrimental. If not prevented or properly managed, electrical voltage surges can lead to severe hazards. Therefore, it is important to identify the causes of voltage surges to determine how to prevent and address them. Let’s dive into the discussion!

Definition of Electrical Voltage Surge 

A voltage surge, also known as a 'power surge,' is a sudden increase in electrical voltage that exceeds the normal limit. In Indonesia, the stable electrical voltage in household circuits usually ranges around 220-240 volts. However, when a surge occurs, this voltage can suddenly spike to thousands of volts within a fraction of a second. Although such surges are very brief, lasting less than a second, their impact can be highly destructive.

Dangers of Electrical Voltage Surges 

Electrical voltage surges pose significant dangers, especially to electronic devices and electrical systems at home or work, leading to anything from equipment damage to fires. Devices such as computers, televisions, and other household appliances are particularly vulnerable to voltage surges. A strong surge can damage internal components, even causing the device to fail completely. Even if a voltage surge does not immediately damage the device, repeated exposure can shorten its operational lifespan.

In severe cases, voltage surges can cause excessive heat in cables and equipment, potentially leading to fires if left unchecked.

Causes of Electrical Voltage Surges

1. Turning on High-Power Devices 

Turning on devices that require a large amount of power, such as air conditioners, washing machines, or industrial equipment, can cause voltage surges. When first switched on, some devices demand a sudden large influx of electricity, disrupting the stability of the voltage in the electrical network.

2. Lightning Strikes 

Lightning strikes are one of the most common and dangerous causes of voltage surges. When lightning strikes an electrical network, a massive amount of energy can flow into the electrical system of a home or building, resulting in a voltage surge that can damage electronic devices.

3. Damaged or Exposed Cables 

Damaged, exposed, or loose electrical cables can cause voltage surges. This damage can occur due to cable aging, physical damage, or improper installation. Poorly insulated cables can lead to short circuits that trigger voltage surges.

4. Power Grid Disturbances 

Disturbances from the power utility company (PLN) can also cause voltage surges. This can happen during grid maintenance, blackouts, or other technical issues. When the power supply returns to normal, a voltage surge can potentially occur, especially if there is an imbalance in power distribution.

5. Electrical Installation Errors 

Improper or non-standard electrical installations can be the cause of voltage surges. Errors such as incorrect cable placement, using components that are not suitable for the required capacity, or loose connections can cause unstable electrical currents, triggering voltage surges.

6. Lack of Surge Protection 

Surge protection devices are designed to protect electronic equipment from voltage surges. Without this protection, your devices are more susceptible to damage from voltage surges, especially when the causes of surges cannot be avoided.

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How to Prevent and Address Electrical Voltage Surges 

The way to prevent and address electrical voltage surges is by installing reliable and capable Surge Protection Devices (SPDs) in the electrical system, whether at home, in the office, or in industrial settings. SPDs ensure the safety of electrical installations against voltage surges, particularly those caused by lightning strikes. Devices categorized under SPD include surge arresters and surge protectors, both of which have the same function, though the current capacity and surge voltage resistance they can handle differ.

You can choose and install surge protection devices inside buildings to prevent losses due to voltage surges. The installation of these devices should be tailored to the needs and the existing electrical system in your home or office.

One of the Surge Protection Devices (SPDs) is produced by Socomec, an international electrical equipment manufacturer that has now entered the Indonesian market. All of its devices comply with applicable safety standards. There are several types of Socomec SPDs you can choose from, depending on your needs, including the following:

• SURGYS E10, a type 2 and 3 surge arrester for protecting sensitive electronic equipment and electrical loads.
• SURGYS G140-F, a type 2 surge arrester for installations with lightning conductors and specific locations.
• SURGYS D40, a type 2 surge arrester for distribution panels.
• SURGYS G51-PV, a type 2 surge arrester for photovoltaic installations.
• SURGYS G70, a type 2 surge arrester for locations at high risk of lightning strikes.
• SURGYS mA-3, SURGYS RS-3, and SURGYS TEL-3, which are low-current surge arresters for protecting data and telecommunication networks.

Electrical voltage surges can happen at any time and bring significant risks. However, by installing quality surge protection devices from Socomec, you can minimize the harmful effects of this phenomenon. Protect your electronic equipment and the safety of your residence with the best Socomec products available at Mitra Cipta Hardi Elektrindo and Hokione.id, the official distributors of Socomec in Indonesia, providing top electrical products and excellent customer service.

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