FAQ’s – Surge Protection
What are surges?
- Surges are high magnitude voltage peaks of only microseconds duration
- Direct and indirect lightning strikes are the most common source
- They are also created with the switching of large inductive or capacitive electrical loads within buildings
What do surge protection devices do?
- Surge protection devices perform two functions; they divert partial lightning currents and limit transient overvoltages
- Both can be as a result of lightning activity
Do surge protection devices have to be installed?
- Surge protection devices are required wherever there is a BS EN 62305 structural lightning protection system and where there are services that enter or leave a structure
- They are also required where it is necessary to protect electrical installations against transient overvoltages of atmospheric origin transmitted by the supply distribution system; as described in BS 7671
- Surges can be the result of direct lightning strikes to the power distribution system and where switching overvoltages are generated by equipment within an installation
Do surge protection devices need testing?
- Surge protection devices should be inspected and tested as part of the overall lightning protection inspection and testing regime
- Low voltage power SPDs should also be inspected as part of the periodic inspection and testing requirements of BS 7671
Can different manufacturers’ SPDs be installed on the same project?
- It is perfectly acceptable to use different manufacturer’s surge protection devices on the same project, providing that the designer of the system takes account of the parameters involved
Can Omega install surge protection devices?
- Omega engineers have the competence and experience to install surge protection devices
- Our SMSTS and City & Guilds 2382-18 trained engineers have the knowledge and experience to install surge protection devices; in a safe, competent and efficient manner
Is it possible to retrofit surge protection devices to an existing installation?
- Surge protection devices can be installed to all existing electrical power and data systems, irrespective of their age
- Omega engineers can carry out detailed site surveys to assess any surge protection requirements and provide reports detailing a best-engineered solution
- Omega engineers have the competence and experience to install all surge protection devices, to an existing installation