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China Britec Electric Co., Ltd.
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Britec Electric Co., Ltd.
Britec Electric specialized in research and development of lightening protection devices. The new series of surge protection device Type1,Type2 and Type3,BR PV and SPDs for Date offer the market with a new choice of high quality surge arresters. Established in 2003, is a professional surge protective devices (SPD) manufacture with many years experiences. We can provide you quality products, competitive price, prompt delivery and excellent service. We can provide you best shopping experience with perfect management, professional technical personnel and well-trained workers. There are some series of surge protection device: Type1, Type2, Type3, PV (solar) and SPDs for Date. More products informations, can view at our website: http://www.britecelectric.com/. With best service, all inquiry will be replied in 24hrs. If you required special products, our technical department can develop products according to customer's requirement and make the tooling in 45 days. All our products have five years warranty. Our team keep developing newest product for our customer, so that our products quality and performance can meet and exceed customer expectations. We can provide professional solutions for customers. Any questions regarding surge protectiion can contact us for professional solution!
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What is the meaning of spd in electrical? 2025-07-22 When an electrical surge occurs, voltage that greatly exceeds accepted peak voltage levels can pass through building circuits to electrical equipment. Without proper protection, this equipment is susceptible to damage or failure from a voltage surge. The type of protection required to negate these spikes can be provided by a surge protective device (SPD).   Specifying the correct SPD requires that you identify and understand the ratings associated with its application. There are many performance values and ratings associated with an SPD, such as maximum continuous operating voltage (MCOV), voltage protection rating (VPR), nominal discharge current (In), and short circuit current rating (SCCR). The most misunderstood rating is the surge current rating, typically quantified in kilo-Ampere (kA).   What is the Type of Surge Protective Devices (SPD)?   The Type of Surge Protective Devices (SPD) is a classification method used to categorize devices that protect electrical systems from voltage surges, based on their protection functions, installation locations, and the ability to withstand various surge currents. SPDs are classified according to two major standards: IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) and UL (Underwriters Laboratories). Each standard has its own classification and requirements to ensure the devices protect electrical systems from surge-related incidents.   Type of Surge Protective Devices According to IEC Standard   The IEC 61643-11 standard specifies performance requirements and testing methods for SPDs used in AC power systems. According to this standard, SPDs are classified into three main types with the following characteristics:   Type 1 SPD (Class I): - Function: Protects the electrical system from direct lightning strikes. - Installation Location: Installed at the system entrance, near the main distribution panel. - Surge Waveform: 10/350 µs. This waveform simulates direct lightning strikes, with a rise time to peak in 10 µs and a decay to 50% in 350 µs. - Surge Current Withstand (Iimp): High, typically from 10 kA upwards. - Nominal Discharge Current (In): From 10 kA upwards, according to IEC 61643-11, Class I. This is the current the SPD can withstand multiple times without damage. - Voltage Protection Level (Up): From 1.5 kV to 2 kV. Up is the maximum voltage the SPD allows to pass during discharge. - Applications: Suitable for high-rise buildings, industrial facilities, and areas with a high risk of lightning strikes.   Type 2 SPD (Class II): - Function: Protects the electrical system from surge voltages caused by indirect lightning strikes or switching operations. - Installation Location: Installed at sub-distribution panels or after a Type 1 SPD. - Surge Waveform: 8/20 µs. This waveform simulates surge voltages propagated within the electrical system, with a rise time to peak in 8 µs and a decay to 50% in 20 µs. - Nominal Discharge Current (In): Medium, typically from 5 kA to 20 kA. This is the current the SPD can withstand multiple times without damage. - Voltage Protection Level (Up): From 1.5 kV to 2 kV. Up is the maximum voltage the SPD allows to pass during discharge. - Applications: Suitable for commercial, residential areas, and regions with moderate lightning risk.   Type 3 SPD (Class III): - Function: Protects sensitive electronic equipment from residual surge voltages after they have been attenuated by Type 1 and Type 2 SPDs. - Installation Location: Installed near sensitive electronic equipment such as sockets, small distribution boards, or terminal devices. - Surge Waveform: 8/20 µs and 1.2/50 µs. These waveforms simulate residual surges, with faster rise times (1.2 µs) and slower decay times (50 µs). - Nominal Discharge Current (In): Low, typically less than 5 kA. - Voltage Protection Level (Up): From 1 kV to 1.5 kV. Up is the maximum voltage the SPD allows to pass during discharge. - Applications: Suitable for sensitive electronic devices such as computers, telecommunication devices, and medical equipment.   Type of Surge Protective Devices According to UL Standard   The UL 1449 standard specifies requirements for SPDs used in electrical systems in North America. According to this standard, SPDs are classified into four Types:   Type 1 SPD: - Function: Protects against surge voltages caused by direct or nearby lightning strikes from outside the electrical grid. - Installation Location: Installed before the electricity meter, either before or after the main circuit breaker. - Surge Current Withstand: Designed to withstand high surge currents. - Applications: Suitable for large industrial and commercial buildings.   Type 2 SPD: - Function: Protects against surge voltages propagated within the system or from the electrical grid. - Installation Location: Installed after the main circuit breaker or at sub-distribution panels. - Surge Current Withstand: Designed to withstand surge currents from the power grid or internal system faults. - Applications: Suitable for residential and commercial areas.   Type 3 SPD: - Function: Protects sensitive electronic devices from residual surge voltages. - Installation Location: Installed at electrical outlets or near sensitive devices. - Surge Current Withstand: Designed to withstand residual surge currents after passing through Type 1 and Type 2 SPDs. - Applications: Suitable for household and office electronic devices.   Type 4 SPD: - Function: Modular or assembly SPDs integrated into electrical equipment. - Installation Location: Typically integrated within devices or distribution boards. - Surge Current Withstand: Designed to meet the requirements of integrated electrical equipment. - Applications: Suitable for electrical devices with built-in SPDs.   SPD: Working Principle   The operation of an SPD is simple yet effective. When a power surge occurs, the MOVs quickly reduce their resistance, increasing their conductivity. This allows them to divert most of the surge current safely to the ground before it can reach and damage connected devices. By doing so, the surge is neutralized, protecting downstream equipment from high-voltage or current spikes.   What are transient overvoltages?   Transient overvoltages are brief, high-magnitude voltage surges that occur over a short period. These surges arise from the sudden release of stored energy or are induced by external factors. They can be classified as either naturally occurring, such as lightning strikes, or man-made, like switching operations in electrical systems.   How do transient overvoltages occur?   Transient overvoltages caused by human activity often result from the operation of motors, transformers, and certain lighting systems. In the past, these events were uncommon in residential settings. However, the rise of modern technologies like electric vehicle chargers, air and ground source heat pumps, and variable-speed washing machines has significantly increased the likelihood of transients in domestic electrical systems.   Natural transient overvoltages are typically triggered by indirect lightning strikes. For example, a direct lightning strike on nearby overhead power or telephone lines can send a surge along the lines. This can lead to severe damage to electrical installations and connected equipment.   How to Properly Size SPDs   There is very little published data or even recommendations on what level of surge current (kA) rating should be used in the different locations. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) has provided some input on what surge ratings are and how to interpret them but does not publish recommendations. Unfortunately, there is not a proven equation or calculator available to input system requirements and receive a solution. Any information a manufacturer provides, via calculators or other means, is merely their recommendation.   There is a tendency to assume that the larger the panel, the larger the kA device rating needed for protection. Another misconception is that if 200 kA is good, then 400 kA must be two times better. As you will see in this whitepaper, this is not always the case. As a result of its many years of knowledge, experience and expertise in the electrical industry, Emerson has generated some guidance on how to apply surge current ratings. (See figure 1, next page)     Selecting the correct type of surge protective device and understanding their classifications according to IEC and UL standards is crucial to ensuring that your electrical systems and electronic devices are adequately protected from voltage surges. Each standard provides a different approach to safeguarding electrical systems, depending on the specific requirements of the application and location.   The primary purpose of a surge protective device is to shunt and suppress the transient voltages that are being introduced into an electrical distribution system from either an external or internal source. Selecting the proper surge current (kA) rated SPDs throughout the electrical distribution system provides the best performance life for equipment. When selecting the appropriate SPDs for your facility, keep these key points in mind:   1. Providing proper surge suppression to a facility and the equipment within requires more than a single SPD located at the service entrance. We recommend cascaded SPDs with a proper surge current rating for each location. This will provide superior suppression for a service panel or critical load. A single SPD, no matter how big or expensive, will not provide the same level of system protection.   2. Over-sizing an SPD for its application cannot hurt a system, but under-sizing the SPD can result in premature failure of the SPD, leaving systems exposed to transients and their effects. 3. For direct lightning strikes, SPDs alone are not a replacement for a comprehensive lightning protection system (refer to UL96A Master Lightning Certification).   Cautions When Installing SPD   To ensure surge protective devices (SPDs) function effectively, careful installation is essential. Key precautions include: - Install SPDs in parallel, positioned directly before circuits or devices, to redirect surge currents away from sensitive equipment. - Keep the connection wires within the switchboard as short as possible, with a maximum length of 0.5 meters. - Using only a Type 1 surge protector may not be adequate for managing high-energy surges and reducing overvoltages. It is advisable to complement it with a Type 2 or Type 3 surge protector. - All installations must be carried out by qualified electricians following local electrical regulations to ensure proper grounding and secure mounting of the device.   Conclusion   In conclusion, surge protective devices are essential for safeguarding electronics in both industrial and commercial settings. Installing a correctly rated and certified SPD provides reliable protection against power surges that exceed the capabilities of standard circuit breakers.  
SPD type 1 vs type 2 vs type 3 2025-07-21 What is Surge Protective Device?   Surge Protective Devices (SPDs), also known as surge protectors or lightning arrestors, are devices designed to protect electrical and electronic equipment from voltage spikes or surges, which can be caused by lightning strikes, electrical faults, or other factors. There are three main types of SPDs: Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3, each designed for specific applications and installation points within an electrical system.   What are SPD Types T1, T2, and T3?   SPD types—Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3—categorize surge protectors based on their placement in electrical systems. Each type addresses specific surge protection needs. By combining these types, you can ensure layered protection against surges.   What is the difference between a Type 1 and Type 2 surge protection device?   The Type 1 surge protection device is specifically recommended for service-sector and industrial buildings. It protects electrical installations against direct lightning strokes. It can discharge the back-current from lightning spreading from the earth conductor to the network conductors. Type 1 SPD is characterized by a 10/350 µs current wave.   The Type 2 surge protection device is the main protection system for all low voltage electrical installations. Installed in each electrical switchboard, it prevents the spread of transient over-voltages in the electrical installations and protects the loads. Type 2 SPD is characterized by an 8/20 µs current wave.   What about Type 3?   The Type 3 surge protection device is for local protection of sensitive loads. These SPDs have a limited protection capacity and are used in the vicinity of sensitive loads as a local supplement to the protection given by the Type 2 SPD. They must therefore only be installed as a supplement to Type 2 SPD and in the vicinity sensitive loads. Type 3 SPDs are characterised by a combination of voltage waves (1.2/50 μs) and current waves (8/20 μs).   What is the Difference Between Type 1 and Type 3?   Type 1 SPDs install at the main incoming power line and handle high-energy surges from external sources like lightning. They effectively prevent large surges from reaching downstream devices. In contrast, Type 3 SPDs sit near individual devices and serve as a final defense against residual surges. These protect sensitive electronics from minor but harmful voltage spikes that bypass upstream SPDs.   What is the Difference Between Type 2 and Type 3 SPD?   Type 2 SPDs install at the distribution board, offering mid-level protection against surges from the grid or internal sources. They work well for protecting groups of devices. However, Type 3 SPDs, positioned close to specific appliances, provide localized and precise protection for end-user equipment. By combining both, you can ensure comprehensive surge defense throughout the system.   Difference between Type1, Type2,Type3 Surge Protective Devices SPDs?   Type 1 SPDs: Also known as “Type 1 Primary Surge Arrestors” or “Service Entrance Surge Arrestors.” Installed at the service entrance or main distribution panel to protect against direct lightning strikes and severe surges originating from external sources. These SPDs are designed to handle high-energy surges and are typically rated with a higher surge current capacity. They are commonly used in industrial, commercial, and residential applications. Type 1 SPD is characterized by a 10/350 µs current wave.   Type 2 SPDs: Also known as “Type 2 Surge Protective Devices” or “Main Distribution Panel Surge Protectors.” Installed downstream from the Type 1 SPD at the distribution panel or subpanel to protect against the secondary effects of surges and transient voltage spikes. Designed to protect against smaller surges that may enter the electrical system through branch circuits. These SPDs are commonly used in residential and commercial buildings. Type 2 SPD is characterized by an 8/20 µs current wave.   Type 3 SPDs: Also known as “Type 3 Point-of-Use Surge Protectors.” Installed at the point of use, near sensitive electronic devices, and connected to individual outlets or devices. Provide localized protection for specific equipment and are commonly found in power strips, surge protector strips, or as built-in protection in electronic devices like computers and televisions. Designed to protect against low-level surges and transient voltages. Type 3 SPD is characterized by a combination of voltage waves (1.2/50 μs) and current waves (8/20 μs).   What is the principle of the surge protector?   SPD is designed to limit transient overvoltages of atmospheric origin and divert current waves to earth, so as to limit the amplitude of this overvoltage to a value that is not hazardous for the electrical installation and electric switchgear and controlgear.   SPD eliminates overvoltages in common mode, between phase and neutral or earth; in differential mode, between phase and neutral. In the event of an overvoltage exceeding the operating threshold, the SPD conducts the energy to earth, in common mode; distributes the energy to the other live conductors, in differential mode.   Do I Need Type 1 or Type 2 SPD?   Your choice depends on your system’s requirements. Type 1 SPDs are necessary for structures with external lightning protection, such as rods or meshes, to block direct lightning surges. Alternatively, Type 2 SPDs suit installations without external protection but need defense against indirect surges or internal electrical disturbances. For maximum protection, combining both types is advisable.   How to Select the Right Type I, II, and III Surge Protector?   To choose the right SPD, assess your system’s location, surge exposure, and equipment sensitivity. Install Type 1 SPDs for buildings with external lightning protection. Use Type 2 SPDs in distribution boards to shield circuits. Finally, place Type 3 SPDs near critical devices for localized protection. By combining these types, you ensure layered defense against all surge levels.   In summary, the key difference between Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3 SPDs is their installation location and the level of protection they offer. Type 1 SPDs are at the service entrance and protect against severe external surges, Type 2 SPDs are at distribution panels and protect against secondary surges, while Type 3 SPDs are at the point of use and protect specific devices from low-level surges. In many cases, a comprehensive surge protection strategy may involve the use of multiple types of SPDs at different points in an electrical system to provide layered protection against surges.  
What is the purpose of spd 2025-07-15 A power surge refers to a sudden and brief increase in the electrical voltage flowing through a power outlet or electrical system. These surges can occur due to various reasons, such as lightning strikes, utility grid fluctuations, or the operation of high-powered electrical devices.   Electrical systems are vulnerable to voltage spikes and surges that can damage equipment, cause costly downtime, and compromise system reliability. Transient voltage surge can be caused by a number of situations including operations of circuit breakers, VFDs, motors, transformers, capacitor banks or switching of power networks. Low-voltage Surge Protective Devices (SPDs) play a critical role in safeguarding sensitive equipment from these harmful electrical disturbances.   What is an SPD?   Surge Protective Devices (SPD) are used to protect the electrical installation from electrical power surges known as transient overvoltages.   Why SPDs Matter?   Prevent Equipment Damage: SPDs limit voltage surges by diverting surge currents away from electrical systems, helping prevent irreversible damage to sensitive equipment.   Improve Reliability: By protecting systems from transient overvoltage, SPDs ensure consistent performance, reducing the risk of unexpected failures and downtime.   Cost-Effective Protection: SPDs are an affordable way to safeguard electrical systems, providing long-term protection at a low cost compared to potential repair or replacement expenses.   Versatile Applications: SPDs depending on the Type rating are suitable for a wide range of facilities, including industrial systems, communications infrastructure, process control systems, and even residential electrical panels to protect home appliances.   How SPDs Work?   SPDs function by limiting the voltage supplied to a circuit during a surge event. The SPD provides a low impedance path for the surge through its Metal oxide Varistor (MOV) absorbing or diverting excess surge current to the ground, ensuring that electrical devices continue to operate within safe voltage levels. At normal operating voltages, SPDs remain in a high-impedance state, so they don’t interfere with the system’s performance.   Types of SPDs   SPDs are categorized into three main types based on their intended placement and application:   Type 1 SPD - Purpose: Designed to protect against high-energy surges, such as those caused by direct lightning strikes. - Installation: Installed at the main service entrance before the main circuit breaker, between the utility and the building’s electrical system. - Use Case: Commonly used in areas prone to lightning strikes or where buildings have external lightning protection systems (e.g., lightning rods).   Type 2 SPD - Purpose: Protects against residual surges that pass through Type 1 SPDs or are generated internally by switching operations. - Installation: Installed at the distribution board or subpanels, after the main circuit breaker. - Use Case: Suitable for protecting sensitive equipment and appliances within the building.   Type 3 SPD - Purpose: Provides localized protection for individual devices. - Installation: Installed near the load (e.g., power strips or outlet-level SPDs). - Use Case: Protects specific devices such as computers, TVs, and medical equipment.   Single-Phase vs. Three-Phase Applications   The choice of SPD configuration depends on whether the system is single-phase or three-phase, as these systems differ in structure and voltage levels.   Single-Phase Systems - Configuration: Typically involves one live wire (L), one neutral wire (N), and an earth connection (E). - Common Voltage: 120V or 230V. - SPD Selection: Single-phase SPDs are straightforward to install, requiring connection between L-N, L-E, and N-E, depending on the earthing system.   Three-Phase Systems - Configuration: Involves three live wires (L1, L2, L3), neutral (N), and earth (E). - Common Voltage: 400V between phases or 230V between phase and neutral. - SPD Selection: Three-phase systems require multi-pole SPDs capable of handling surges across all live wires, neutral, and earth.   Earthing Systems and SPD Applications   The earthing system of an electrical installation influences the placement and connection of SPDs. Common earthing systems include TN-S, TT, and TN-C-S systems.   TN-C-S (Terra Neutral – Combined and Separate) This system is also known as the Protective Multiple Earthing (PME) system. In a TN-C-S system, the neutral (N) and earth (PE, protective earth) conductors are combined into a single conductor (PEN, protective earth-neutral) in the supply network and then separated at the consumer’s installation.   TT (Terra-Terra) In a TT system, the consumer provides their own local earth connection using an earth electrode, separate from the supply network’s earthing system.   TN-S (Terra Neutral – Separate) In a TN-S system, the earth (PE) and neutral (N) conductors are separate throughout the entire supply network.   Best Practices for SPD Installation   Coordination of SPDs: Use a cascading approach with Type 1 SPDs at the main service entrance and Type 2 SPDs in distribution panels. Type 3 SPDs can provide additional localized protection for sensitive equipment.   Earthing Considerations: Ensure the earthing system is well-designed and maintained, as SPD effectiveness depends on a low-impedance earth connection. Verify compliance with local regulations regarding earth resistance values.   Voltage Ratings: Select SPDs with voltage protection levels (Up) that align with the insulation withstand capability of the system. For three-phase systems, ensure SPDs can handle the phase-to-phase and phase-to-earth voltage levels.   Regular Maintenance: Inspect SPDs periodically to ensure functionality, as they degrade over time and may require replacement after significant surge events.   Conclusion   SPDs play a vital role in protecting electrical systems from transient overvoltage’s. Selecting the appropriate SPD type and ensuring compatibility with the earthing system are critical for effective surge protection in single-phase and three-phase applications. By adhering to best practices and maintaining a robust earthing system, facilities can minimize damage to electrical infrastructure and sensitive equipment, enhancing safety and operational continuity.  
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