AC Surge Protection Devices: Ensuring Equipment and Electrical Safety

Surge Protection Devices (SPD) are designed to provide safety protection for various electronic equipment and electrical systems. When there is a sudden surge of current or voltage in an electrical circuit or communication line due to external interference, they can quickly divert the surge to prevent damage to other devices. Surge protection devices typically contain key components such as Metal-Oxide Varistors (MOV) and gas discharge tubes.

Differences Between AC and DC Surge Protection Devices

We’ve already discussed DC surge protection devices in a previous article. Despite the common goal of protecting electrical systems from sudden surges, there are several key differences between AC and DC surge protection devices:

Current Type: AC SPDs are designed to protect AC systems, while DC SPDs are specifically designed for DC systems, such as photovoltaic power systems.

Voltage Ratings: AC SPDs are connected to public utility grids with voltage ranges from 120V to 480V. In contrast, DC SPDs are designed for solar systems, with voltage ranging from several hundred volts to as high as 1500V, depending on the system’s size and configuration.

Clamping and MOV: AC and DC surge protection devices have different clamping characteristics and MOV specifications due to differences in voltage waveform. AC voltage alternates between positive and negative values, while DC voltage is constant and unidirectional. Therefore, AC SPDs must accommodate AC voltage and handle bidirectional surges, whereas DC SPDs must withstand continuous DC voltage and handle unidirectional surges.

Major Applications: Although the installation process for AC and DC surge protection devices is similar, the applications differ. AC SPDs are typically used in the public utility grid and load devices, while DC SPDs are connected to solar arrays, inverters, or combiner boxes.

Different Types of AC Surge Protection Devices

Whole-House AC Surge Protectors: These devices are installed in the entire residential electrical distribution system, primarily aimed at protecting all electrical appliances and devices in the house from the impact of surges. They are usually installed at the electrical panel or main power entry to intercept any voltage spikes and direct them to the ground.

In-Wall AC Surge Protectors: These protective devices are designed to be embedded in the wall. They are typically installed inside electrical outlets on the wall, providing direct surge protection for devices while maintaining a neat appearance and safeguarding the equipment connected to the outlets.

Surge-Protecting Outlets: Surge protection devices are typically integrated into outlets. Users can plug their electronic devices directly into these outlets for instant surge protection. This type of protector is particularly suitable for home and office environments, reducing the risk of equipment damage from surges.

Outstanding Benefits of AC Surge Protection Devices

Protecting Electronic Products and Appliances: AC surge protection devices rapidly interrupt high-voltage surges during surge events, preventing them from damaging connected electronic products and appliances. This protects the internal circuits of the devices, extends their lifespan, ensures consistent and reliable performance, and reduces repair and replacement costs.

Enhancing Electrical Safety: Surge events are a common cause of electrical system failures and fires. AC surge protection devices help maintain the stability of the electrical system, reducing damage to circuits and power sources caused by surge events. This significantly reduces the risk of fires and other electrical failures, improving the safety of the system.

Beny Surge Protection Devices Solutions

AC Surge Protection Devices: Type 2 SPDs are the primary protection devices for low-voltage electrical systems. They are installed in electrical distribution panels to prevent the spread of overvoltages and protect loads. Beny’s AC surge protection devices are designed in compliance with the EN 61643 standard, providing up to 385V Type 2 protection to protect AC equipment and circuits. These surge protection devices consist of a base part and insertable high-energy MOV protection modules, equipped with optional remote signaling contacts. They have a built-in thermal disconnect for fault indication. Constructed with UV-resistant and flame-retardant materials and offering a 5-year warranty, these surge protection devices provide peace of mind to users.

DC Surge Protection Devices: Beny’s DC surge protection devices are designed based on the IEC/EN 61643-31 standard, suitable for 600V, 1000V, and 1500V solar power systems, providing T1 and T1+T2-class protection. They come with a built-in thermal disconnect for fault indication and offer optional remote signaling contacts. They provide rapid, nanosecond-level response to surge voltages, maintaining system stability. These products comply with TÜV Rheinland, RoHS, and CE certification standards and provide a 5-year warranty, offering a reliable guarantee for the stable and safe operation of solar systems.

Depending on user and system configuration requirements, Beny can help analyze system conditions in detail and provide the most suitable surge protection devices to enhance system stability and reliability. With its own AC and DC surge protection device factory and a robust supply chain, Beny can serve customers worldwide.

Surge protection devices are essential devices for managing surges and maintaining the stability of equipment and systems. They have a wide range of applications in everyday life and production, including in power, telecommunications, industrial, and solar energy systems. As a leading manufacturer of photovoltaic components, Beny is always driven by innovation, deeply committed to the field of components, and dedicated to providing users with safe, reliable, high-quality AC and DC power transmission and distribution solutions.