Surge Protection Devices

Surge protection devices help to protect devices and equipment against changes in the electrical current running through the system. These devices work by diverting a sudden, short-duration increase in voltage, known as a transient or spike, away from sensitive electronics and safely to the ground or by absorbing them.

Without this essential protection, surges, which can be caused by lightning strikes, power grid fluctuations, or even the switching of heavy machinery, can lead to severe equipment damage, costly operational downtime, and serious safety hazards.

What are Surge Protection Devices Used For?

Surge protection devices involve the use of surge suppressors or protectors and surge arresters.

• Suppressors protect equipment from voltage spikes. They block or short to ground the current in, for instance, power distribution panels, process control systems and heavy industrial systems.
• Arresters protect machinery from external occurrences that cause overvoltage transients like lightning strikes or switching events. These are installed in power transmission and distribution systems.

Types of Surge Protection Devices

Four primary types of industrial surge protection exist:

Secondary Surge Arresters

Secondary surge arresters are fixed to the line side of the service panel to protect against current surges from lightning or switching events.

Branch Surge Panels

Branch surge panels are fixed to the load side of the main service entrance and offer protection against motor-driven and internally generated surges.

Power Strips with Surge Protection

Power strips protect sensitive electronics with lower voltage and ampere capabilities by blocking current spikes.

Surge Protection Modules

Surge protection modules provide point-of-use protection by protecting against overvoltage and current spikes.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Surge Protector

Selecting the appropriate surge protector requires careful consideration to ensure your equipment receives adequate protection.

• High Surge Current Capacity: A critical rating that indicates the maximum current the device can safely divert, offering a clear measure of its protective capability against severe transients.
• DIN Rail Mounting: Ideal for industrial and commercial use, this feature allows for a straightforward, organised installation.
• Replaceable Modules: Look for devices that allow worn-out modules to be swapped out easily. This feature minimises downtime and the cost of replacing the entire unit.
• Compliance with Standards: Ensure the surge protector meets relevant international and local standards, such as UL 1449, IEEE and ANSI/IEEE, to guarantee tested and certified performance.
• Visual Indicators: Many surge protection devices include visual cues, such as LED lights, that provide a simple, immediate way to check the device’s operational status and know when a module needs replacing.

Applications of Power Surge Protector Device

A power surge protector device's versatility makes it indispensable across a variety of applications:

• Industrial Facilities: In manufacturing and automation, surge protection devices are vital for protecting control panels, Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), and robotic systems. They mitigate the risk of voltage spikes, which can disrupt production and cause significant downtime.
• Commercial Buildings: Modern commercial spaces, including offices and data centres, rely on continuous power. Surge protectors safeguard sensitive IT and networking equipment from internal surges caused by HVAC systems or other heavy loads, ensuring data integrity and business continuity.
• Critical Infrastructure: Public services like hospitals, airports, and telecommunications networks depend on uninterrupted power. Surge protectors are installed to protect essential equipment, from life-support systems to air traffic control, ensuring critical services remain operational and secure.
• Renewable Energy Systems: In solar and wind farms, surge protection devices are essential for protecting sensitive equipment and control systems. They guard against surges caused by lightning or grid fluctuations, ensuring the reliability and longevity of these green energy assets.

Find the Best Surge Protection for Your Needs

As a trusted supplier and distributor of high-quality electrical safety components, RS NZ offers an extensive range of power surge protectors from leading brands like Siemens, Phoenix Contact, and our own RS PRO brand.

Secure your equipment and ensure operational continuity. Browse our comprehensive range of surge protection devices, including 3 phase industrial surge protectors, to discover solutions for every application, from protecting a single appliance to an entire facility.

We are committed to providing fast and reliable delivery services across New Zealand of your surge protection devices and other components, such as DIN rail power supplies and miniature circuit breakers. For more specific details on delivery options, lead times, and any applicable charges, please refer to our dedicated Delivery page.