Lightning Arrester vs. Surge Arrester: Key Differences!

Electrical systems form the basis of everyday life. Hence, it is crucial to protect them in the event of failure. Therefore, it is important to know how to protect ourselves from these two because they pose a threat to electrical networks. This post aims to describe the primary difference between lightning arrester and surge arrester, their functions, and their significance for electrical protection.

What is Lightning Arrester?

A lightning arrester, also commonly referred to as a lightning rod or lightning conductor, is equipment meant to protect a structure from lightning. The device operates through a process of allowing the use of a low-resistance path to safely discharge the electrical strike to the ground.

Lightning Arrester Working Principle

The principle by which a lightning arrester works is that it is able to intercept the lightning strike and channel it so that it cannot penetrate and cause extreme disorder in the electricity systems or cause fires. Mounted in most cases at the top of the construction, lightning arresters are usually of metallic construction of copper or aluminium and must be wired to the ground by a wire or rod.

What is Surge Arrester?

A surge arrester, sometimes called a surge protector, is a device used to prevent electrical devices and systems from being damaged by the transient voltage. These surges can be a result of lightning strikes, blackouts, or switching operations anywhere in the power distribution network.

Surge Arrester Working Principle

The surge arrester’s work is based on the principle of passing extra voltage to the earthing instead of allowing it to pass through the sensitivity of other equipment. Surge arresters are quite similar to varistors and are located in electrical panels or directly at the point of usage. They are a very critical apparatus that helps protect the integrity and lifespan of electronic devices from voltage surges.

Lightning Arrester vs Surge Arresters

Purpose and Application

• Lightning Arrester: This is basically drawn up to shield buildings and other establishments from being struck by lightning. It is a passive device that helps intercept and shunt lightning currents.
• Surge Arrester: These are engines to safeguard electrical appliances from what is referred to as ‘transient voltage,’ which is not always caused by direct lightning but by other causes of high voltage swings.

Installation Location

• Lightning Arrester: Usually set up on buildings’ roofs or any other positions that enable it to capture the lightning before it gets into the structure.
• Surge Arrester: These devices are fitted at locations including electrical panels or at the level of electric equipment to shield circuits from surges.

Working Principle

• Lightning Arrester Working Principle: Depends on its capability to offer a direct & low resistance course to the earth for the high current of a lightning strike. It protects the individual from receiving a dangerous electrical shock or having an electric fire.
• Surge Arrester Working Principle: It uses parts such as metal oxide varistors (MOVs) or gas discharge tubes to clamp the voltage spike and direct it towards a harmless path so as not to harm the other components or devices connected.

Construction and Components

• Lightning Arrester: It is normally composed of a pointed rod or conductor, a grounding system and a path to the ground. It is made with a view of handling very high currents.
• Surge Arrester: This includes a surge suppression means in the form of a MOV, spark gap, or gas discharge tube capable of handling small, transient voltage spikes.

Protection Scope

• Lightning Arrester: It offers protection at the structural level to guard against the virtually direct effect of this natural calamity.
• Surge Arrester: Protects equipment at the device or system level against surge or voltage transients which damage computers or any other sensitive equipment.

Why Both are Important?

Lightning arresters are used mainly to limit the direct effect brought by a direct lightning strike on a structure or building, while surge arresters are used predominantly to protect electronic apparatus from the effects of ripple voltage, which is a result of an electrical surge. It is possible to use both types of arresters, offering double protection for physical accommodation and other sensitive electrical equipment.

Lightning and surge arresters are critical components in protecting electrical systems, buildings, and equipment from the potentially devastating effects of lightning strikes and power surges. These devices act as safeguards that ensure the safety, functionality, and longevity of electrical infrastructure. Here’s why they are important:

1. Protection Against Lightning Strikes: Lightning strikes are a major cause of damage to electrical systems. A direct hit can result in fires, severe equipment damage, and even fatalities. Lightning arresters are specifically designed to protect buildings, power lines, and electrical equipment by diverting the massive electrical surge from a lightning strike safely into the ground. This prevents the surge from entering the system and causing extensive damage.

2. Safeguarding Sensitive Equipment: Modern homes, offices, and industrial facilities are filled with sensitive electronic devices such as computers, communication systems, and control units. Surge arresters protect these devices from voltage spikes caused by lightning or other disturbances in the electrical grid. Without surge protection, these sensitive electronics can malfunction or be permanently damaged, leading to costly repairs or replacements.

3. Minimising Downtime and Operational Disruption: In industrial and commercial settings, power surges can lead to unexpected downtime, halting production lines and disrupting services. Lightning and surge arresters ensure that operations continue smoothly by preventing voltage spikes from damaging critical machinery and control systems. This reduces maintenance costs and prevents productivity losses, making them essential for business continuity.

4. Ensuring Safety of People and Property: High-voltage surges not only damage equipment but also pose significant safety risks. These surges can cause electrical fires, explosions, and electric shocks, endangering lives. Lightning and surge arresters mitigate these risks by providing a direct path for excess voltage to be safely grounded, thereby protecting people and property.

5. Compliance with Safety Standards: Many industries are required to comply with safety standards and regulations that mandate the installation of surge protection devices. Using lightning and surge arresters helps meet these compliance requirements and ensures that businesses adhere to legal and safety obligations.

6. Extending Equipment Lifespan: Frequent voltage surges can degrade the components of electrical systems over time, leading to premature failure. Surge arresters help to prolong the lifespan of equipment by shielding them from frequent voltage spikes, which can otherwise cause wear and tear.

Also Read: What is Surge Protector and How Does it Work?

Conclusion

For individuals interested in finding ways to improve electrical safety, Lauritz Knudsen Electrical and Automation Smartshop presents Lightning and Surge arresters, which can meet the different levels of protection needed. If you connect these devices to your electrical system, you shall benefit from proper protection with both the direct lightning currents and the transient voltage surge.

Visit Lauritz Knudsen Electrical and Automation Smartshop for quality solutions to safeguard your homes, offices, and other electronic gadgets from electrical danger.