Understanding the definition and function of surge arrester as well as its differences from lightning rods can help you comprehend the electrical devices installed in buildings, whether homes or public facilities.

Although both handle electrical surges, surge arresters and lightning rods are not the same. They have fundamental differences that are important to know.

This article contains information about the definition and function of surge arresters, as well as a deeper explanation of their differences from lightning arrester.

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Definition of Surge Arrester

A surge arrester is a device specifically designed to protect other electrical equipment by capturing or diverting surges caused by external factors like  lightning or internal factors like rapid switching.

While surge arresters cannot stop or absorb lightning, they are effective in diverting surge currents to the ground path, thus preventing damage to electrical equipment.

The use of surge arresters in the electrical industry is widespread, ranging from protecting household appliances to utility substations. These devices can be found installed in transformers placed on the ground, circuit breakers in homes, and support poles.

Surge arresters play a crucial role in maintaining the reliability and safety of electrical systems. Without proper protection, electrical surges can cause serious damage to equipment and even pose fire hazards. With these devices in place, the risk of damage and danger from electrical surges can be minimized, allowing the electrical system to operate more stably and safely.

Function of Surge Arrester

Surge arresters function to prevent excessive voltage flow and divert it to the ground, thus protecting electrical equipment from damage due to voltage surges.

Every electrical device has a safe voltage range for operation. However, sometimes the received voltage can exceed the recommended limits due to various reasons such as loose connections, cable issues, or external disturbances like lightning storms.

Voltage surges can be fatal to electrical equipment. If the voltage exceeds the permitted limit, the equipment may experience permanent damage, internal component failure, or even catch fire.

Surge arresters are saviors in such situations by limiting voltage surges caused by lightning or sudden changes in the electrical system. While not designed to protect against direct lightning strikes, they can provide protection against voltage surges occurring around the electrical conductor area.

In simple terms, the function of surge arresters is to limit voltage surges by minimizing the amount of current passing through the electrical system.

Differences between Surge Arrester and Lightning Arrester

Although their functions are almost the same, surge arresters differ from lightning rods. Lightning rods are installed outdoors, while surge arresters are installed indoors.

This is because lightning rods are tasked with safely channeling lightning currents to the ground, while surge arresters function to protect electrical equipment connected to the system.

Here are more detailed differences between surge arresters and lightning arresters:

Surge Arrester:

1. Its main function is to protect electrical devices from current surges inside the house.

2. Installed in the main panel.

3. Protects the entire system from surges, lightning, electrical disturbances, and temporary voltage.

4. Stops surges and diverts excess energy to the ground through the ground wire.

Lightning Arrester:

1. Its main function is to protect electrical equipment from external sources, so it is installed outside the building.

2. Lightning arresters can only be installed on outdoor panels.

3. Diverts electrical flow to the ground through the arrester device directly.

4. Used for lightning surges and can be used as surge arresters.

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Electrical surges have the potential to trigger serious hazards, especially in Indonesia's climate, which often experiences severe weather accompanied by lightning strikes. To protect electrical installations from lightning-induced surges, you can install special devices like surge arresters inside buildings.

Understanding the definition and function of surge arresters and their differences from lightning rods will make it easier to choose reliable devices for the electrical system, especially for those living in lightning-prone areas. By gaining a deeper understanding of surge arresters, you can find the best protection solutions for electrical devices in your home.

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