Surge Protection Devices (SPDs) safeguard appliances and systems against voltage surges caused by external sources such as lightning, or internally generated as a result of power switching.
Like any protective device, however, being able to test and maintain your SPD ensures that it functions as intended. How to test SPD devices effectively? Read this article to find the answer! It has covered the testing equipment and the troubleshooting processes.
A Surge Protection Device (SPD) is a protective device that protects sensitive electrical equipment from power surge damage. It works by diverting excess voltage to the ground, preventing electrical systems compromise.
Read this article to learn more about surge protection devices:
There are three primary types of SPDs:
For outdoor Type 2 SPD replacement or specification checks, compare OMDN40 outdoor Type 2 SPD and OMDN60 outdoor Type 2 SPD options against the installation environment and project rating requirements.
SPDs control the voltage levels in electricity circuits and act when they sense a surge. When sensing a high level of voltage, the SPD reroutes a built-in component such as Metal Oxide Varistors (MOVs) or Gas Discharge Tubes (GDTs), which redirect the surge to the ground, hence, not reaching devices it is wired to.
These devices remain in standby condition under normal operating conditions, hence the protection is still effective once a surge has been detected. When the voltage returns to a safe level, the SPD self-clears and resumes monitoring automatically.
SPDs should be tested at regular intervals to ensure they function. They need to be tested under the following conditions:
There are clear-cut symptoms of a faulty SPD. Some of these common symptoms include:
Start with a physical inspection of the SPD for cosmetic damage. Check for cracks, discoloration, or burning of the exterior casing. The status indicator LED should be lighted green, which indicates the device is properly operating. Red or there is no illumination, could indicate a fault. In this case, additional testing needs to be done.
A multimeter is an easy-to-use tool for performing basic tests on your SPD. Here’s how:
An insulation resistance test is conducted to verify whether the internal components of the SPD have deteriorated, something that occurs over time.
Professional SPD testers are utilized to measure the dynamic performance of an SPD. The testers simulate real surge conditions, allowing you to confirm how effectively the SPD performs under high-voltage events. The testers provide a thorough analysis of the protection capability of the SPD by testing the MOV, GDT, or spark gap for proper function.
SPDs must be tested using dedicated tools that will cause the device to function under various conditions. The main tools used to test SPDs are:
There are five factors that determine how frequently an SPD is tested:
Abnormal Indicator Lights: Red showing or lack of indication on any lamp may denote internal failure. The SPD tends to have to be replaced under such conditions.
Overheating: When the SPD casing gets very hot, this can be a symptom of failure of internal components. Turn off the power supply immediately and inspect the device.
Regular Visual Checks: Check cables and connections for signs of wear and tear.
Remote Monitoring: Some high-end SPDs have remote monitoring capabilities that allow you to check their operation without visual inspection.
End of Life: Once an SPD has experienced its surge capacity, it should be replaced. An average quality SPD can handle up to 20 surge incidents.
Frequent Activation: When the SPD continuously activates for power surges frequently, it is time to consider a replacement.
Testing your SPD device is a critical part of maintaining the integrity and safety of your electrical system. By maintaining regular inspections of SPDs and using the correct test equipment, you can ensure that the devices remain in use and continue protecting your equipment from power surges.
In the selection of SPDs, consider voltage rating, response time, and electrical system compatibility.
OOHMAGE offers an array of quality surge protection devices for a wide range of applications. The company designed products to provide stable protection against transient voltage surges, ensuring your electrical devices’ safety and long lifespan. For more information about OOHMAGE surge protection devices, visit our official website and contact us!
For bulk orders, use SPD testers that allow simultaneous testing of multiple devices. Those with surge voltage simulation and multi-phase test facilities are ideal for large-scale users and distributors.
Bulk buyers need to look for certifications like IEC 61643 and UL marking. They also need to evaluate the reputation of the manufacturer and warranty programs to ensure the quality and longevity of the SPD.
For commercial use or other large applications, it is recommended to hire a professional to test and maintain SPDs. Professionals ensure conformity with local regulations and can make use of advanced testing equipment.
Distributors must maintain stock of various types of SPDs, focusing on best-selling models. Collaboration with manufacturers to acquire bulk prices and customized solutions is critical for large-scale projects.
Regulations such as BS EN 62305 and the 18th Edition of the UK Wiring Regulations (Regulation 443 and 534) provide guidelines for SPD installation and testing. B2B buyers need to ensure that these standards are met for all works.
