DIN-rail mounting transient surge suppression

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Jun 14, 2001

Advance-Galatrek has just launched its brand new range of StrikeSafe wall mounted Transient Protection Units (TPUs), using hardwired DIN rail modules for convenient transient surge suppression

Power quality management specialist Advance-Galatrek has just launched its brand new range of StrikeSafe wall mounted Transient Protection Units (TPUs), using hardwired DIN rail modules for compact and convenient transient surge suppression.

Various models in the range are designed to utilise Silicon Avalanche Diode (SAD) and Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV) technology, to guarantee the ultimate in transient voltage surge suppression.

The units are intended to provide transient protection for applications within Zones B and C, as defined in BS EN6651:1992 Appendix C.

The patent pending DIN rail modules provide an advantage over competitor systems in that they combine two modules, for a more compact installation.

This allows customers to capitalise on the traditional hardwired approach to surge suppression, while reaping the benefits of a space-conscious installation.

Additionally, this allows the StrikeSafe modules to be installed anywhere that there is a suitable DIN rail.

Modules are packaged in an individual consumer unit, with an individual module for single phase applications and three modules for three phase.

A variety of models are available for various applications.

For industrial use, a single phase 110V range offers a choice of both SAD and MOV technology or, for less critical applications, an MOV only configuration.

In addition, for three phase rail applications, a 650V module is available, either as an SAD only or MOV only device.

The SAD offers a clamping voltage of 1092V per phase, while the MOV clamps at 1300V per phase.

Each model in the StrikeSafe range of DIN rail mount modules uses Advance-Galatrek's latest patent pending matrix technology.

This breakthrough provides superior levels of transient protection to those afforded by competitor Transient Voltage Surge Suppressors (TVSS).

It also enables the TVSS to continue functioning to full capacity, even if a voltage surge damages an individual component.

For the ultimate in transient surge protection, customers should specify combination of StrikeSafe SAD and MOV matrices.

Because the SAD matrix reacts virtually instantaneously to the sharp rising edge of a transient infected voltage waveform, the SAD modules become effective at a threshold some 15% to 20% lower than traditional MOV only devices.

This results in a better dissipation of excess transient energy, and allows the secondary protection MOV matrix to activate as the transient energy approaches the levels at which the SADs cannot safely operate.

This latter characteristic increases the TVSS surge rating, as well as protecting the SADs from over-current.

With Zone C devices relating to locations including the factory floor, where protection is focused around main incomer and distribution boards, transients generally result from external sources such as lightning, grid switching, power system faults and local industrial installations.

Appliances in Zone B, comprising engineering and communications rooms will also experience internal transients, as well as those from external sources.

Typically, internal sources include hardware such as induction motors, generators, process control equipment, manufacturing and office-based systems.

The StrikeSafe range of DIN rail modules is ideal way to bring transient protection to applications in these Zones, especially where a suitable DIN rail already exists.

To accompany the launch, Advance-Galatrek has produced a new catalogue containing full details of the StrikeSafe TVSS range.

The catalogue also features comprehensive information on transient protection issues, with easy product selection and specification guides.