Power surges can occur for various reasons, including lightning strikes. Surge protectors ensure that only the appropriate voltage reaches your electronic equipment, such as computers, by absorbing or diverting excess voltage.
What Are Surge Protectors?
Explore MSC Industrial Supply’s technical guide to learn about power surge protectors and make informed decisions when choosing electrical equipment. A surge protector, also known as a surge suppressor, is an electrical safety device that serves as a shield between valuable electronic equipment and potentially destructive power surges or brief spikes in voltage.
Types of Surge Protectors
Surge protectors come in various types to meet different needs, each offering distinct features to protect your devices.
Power Strip Surge Protectors
These are the most common type, combining multiple outlets with surge protection. They are widely used in office and home settings and are ideal for connecting multiple pieces of equipment to a single outlet. However, not all power strips provide surge protection, so always check the product specifications to ensure it meets your needs.
Hardwired Surge Protectors
Installed directly into the main electrical panel, these protect all appliances and electronics in your home or building by stopping power surges at their source. They’re especially valuable in areas prone to frequent power disturbances, such as lightning-prone regions or locations with unstable power grids.
Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS)
UPS devices combine surge protection with battery backup. They are particularly important for critical equipment, such as computer servers or medical devices, providing protection from power surges and ensuring functionality during outages.
Terminology
Suppressed Voltage: The maximum voltage allowed to pass through a surge protector to the connected equipment connected to the device.
Suppressed Voltage Rating: Determined by UL when specific current and voltage are applied to a surge protector. Permanent surge protectors are tested at 3,000A and 6,000V, while portable ones are tested at 500A and 600V.
Joule Rating: Indicates the short-duration peak energy capacity of a surge protector. A higher joule rating typically means a longer lifespan for the device.
Peak Current: Represents the short-duration peak current rating of a surge protector.
Types of Temporary Surges
Category A: Long Branch Circuits
Circuits located more than 10 meters (30 feet) from a Category B location.
Category B: Major Feeders and Short Branch Circuits
Includes distribution panels, industrial bus and feeder systems, heavy appliance circuits, and switches located within 10 meters (30 feet) of a Category B location.
Category C: Outside and Service Entrance
Covers the main service panel and any overhead lines connecting to separate structures.
Source: IEEE 587