Why You Need to Understand SPD Type 1 and Type 2
Everything around us is getting electrical, and with that comes the necessity of electricity being available in a constant and reliable manner for our complex electrical system. A good flowing electric supply is the heart of advanced civilization and is used in servers that support us on a daily basis as well as operations in various industries. Unfortunately, this flow is vulnerable to transient overvoltages or surges. If not controlled, surges can lead to outages and can last from microseconds, subsequently damaging electronic equipment. This leads to expensive destruction, data corruption, and can lead to hazardous fires. The role of surge protection becomes paramount in mitigating these risks.
Let’s consider an example: an electrical system functions like a complex network of arteries and veins which transport electric current to the devices. Surges, akin to pressure spikes, can cause components to burn out too. Surges are not only caused by dramatic events such as lightning strikes but can also be caused internally by switching heavy loads and operating a number of appliances at once. These internal transients can be just as damaging over time.
In order to protect against these threats, the surge protective device(spd) needs to be used and understood in order to prevent overvoltage from damaging equipment. This post will explain the details for type 1 and type 2 types of spd. Understanding Type 1 and Type 2 spd policies is vital in comprehending the problem of electrical surges. The same way a strategic security system utilizes more than one type of protection, the same should be applied when protecting your electrical structures. The main purpose of understanding these devices is to ensure the longevity and safety of your electrical installation.
SPD Type 1: The First Line of Defense Against External Surges
Type 1 surge protective devices, or SPDs, are sort of like building an outer wall around a castle. They serve as the first line of defense against destructive surges, like lightning strikes. These types of devices are placed in parallel before the main circuit breaker and are connected to the secondary side of the service transformer; this helps these devices capture the energy from lightning strikes before it enters the distribution system. Type 1 SPDs are effective because theirrobust construction allows them to handle extremely high surge currents, often tens or hundreds of kiloamperes.
Type 1 SPDs work like an oversized shock absorber for an entire electrical system. Types of SPDs greatly minimize damage due to overcurrent caused by lightning zaps. As the first protective device in the surge’s path, it scrubs the brunt of the impact, ensuring downstream components remain damage free from the violent impact of the surge. It is critical, as many devices positioned downstream, could be damaged beyond repair if direct lightning splits down.
Installing Type 1 SPD is of fundamental importance to regions with lots of lightning storms or in the crucial infrastructure’s electrical system. Having these devices ensures that the entire structure is operating at optimum efficiency by offering intermediate level protection that keeps them safe from lightning strikes. Certain rules like the National Electrical Code (NEC) make it mandatory in some areas. Having Type 1 SPD gives the system hope as an immediate barrier standing between unpredictable external elements, greatly assisting in preserving the order of the electrical system making sure they are well defended.
SPD Type 2: The Second Layer of Protection Against Internal Surges
Type 2 Surge Protective Devices (SPDs) are vital for protecting electrical systems against secondary surge events that occur after Type 1 SPDs have mitigated the primary external surges. External surges, for example lightning, while dangerous, are infrequent when compared to internal surges. These internal surges, which occur beyond the downstream side of the main circuit breaker, happen more frequently but are far less intense than lightning. However, sensitive electronic and electrical devices can still fail when they are subjected to such stress.
When it comes to Types 2 SPDs, consider the analogy of a castle’s defense system. If a castle’s wails of defense successfully repel the stronger attacks, there still exists the possibility of internal disturbances or nagging smaller attacks. Type 2 SPD’s function like the internal discipline system that controls secondary inner disturbances more effortlessly. These devices are installed downstream of the main circuit breaker at distribution panels or sub-panels. Circuits inside the building are served by these panels and type two SPDs are used for the circuits or pieces of equipment that are positioned nearer to the point of use. These protective components are vital for controlling critical electronics and devices at the points of use from common sources of internal surge like heavy inductive loads, appliances or even faults within the electric system.
These internal surges are less intense than lightning but can be equally damaging over time. Type 2 SPDs work like filters, softening these frequent and smaller disturbances so that sensitive devices like computers, televisions, and appliancesdo not get harmed. Without Type 2 SPDs, these regular internal surges would degrade electronics, shorten their lifespan, and lead to expensive repairs or replacements. For surge protection, it is best to combine Type 1 and Type 2 SPDs. Type 1 surge protectors deal with greater external danger, and Type 2 surge protectors deal with local internal surrenders and ensure that electrical systems remain intact in accordance with set standards by UL.
Type 1 vs Type 2: A Comprehensive Comparison of Key Differences
Surge protection devices (SPDs) are critical in defending an electric system from overvoltage damage. Type 1 and Type 2 SPDs perform protection, but each has its own specific form of surge they protect against and their locations differ in the electrical system. Understanding these two forms is fundamental for choosing the most appropriate device to ensure optimal PSD protection is achieved.
| Factor | Type 1 SPD | Type 2 SPD |
| Installation Location | Installed on the line side of the main protective device. | Installed on the load side of the main circuit breaker. |
| Protection Target | Protects against external surges, especially from lightning. | Protects against internal surges caused within the building. |
| Surge Handling Capacity | Handles high surge currents (tens to hundreds of kA). | Handles lower surge currents (few kA to tens of kA). |
| Applicable Standards | Must be certified to withstand direct lightning strikes, often compliant with NEC. | Certified for internal surge protection and coordination with other devices. |
Differentiating between Type 1 and Type 2 SPDs ensures the right protection approach is taken for electrical installations. Type 1 SPDs defend against strong external surges, while Type 2 SPDs control the most common internal surges that occur and may which may cause gradual damage to sensitive devices. Use of both types within an identified surge protection plan helps provide a holistic approach which provides better protection, improving safety and increasing the life of the electrical system.
How to Choose the Right SPD Type Based on Your Needs?
Choosing the right type of spd protection for your electrical installation requires considering several factors posed by your installation, as well as your desired level of protection against transient overvoltages. Here’s a checklist to take into account before making your decision:
1. Risk Assessment: Look at the possibility and the accompanying damage of an electrical surge in your area. Parts of the world where lightning strikes are constant will strongly benefit from robust Type 1 protection at the service entrance.
2. Building Type and Usage: The kind of structure that it is, together with its use, also matters significantly. Buildings where critical infrastructures or very delicate electronic devices and industrial-grade machines are stored will require elaborate surge protection schemes using both Type 1 and Type 2 spds. Residential homes also get a lot from protection of this type from their distribution panels and even from the point of use for specific equipment.
3. Electrical System Configuration: The layout of your electrical system, especially the location of the service entrance and distribution panels, will dictate where each type of spd will be installed. Ensure compatibility with your wiring and the system’s voltage.
4. Budget: Although surge protection of any type is an investment on its own, budget constraints may impact your decision. Nevertheless, having enough coverage on the protection of your valuable equipment is non-negotiable. Consider the long-term costs associated with damage from surges.
5. Consulting a Qualified Electrician: A professional electrician will be best suited to help you analyze your system as well as protect your unit from possible damage from overvoltage. Accurately knowing the risks of your system helps guide which types of spd are suitable for your unit along with their optimal installation location. They will also ensure compliance with the national electrical code (nec) and other relevant standards.
In most scenarios, a blend of Type 1 and Type 2 spds ensures that the best possible surge protection is achieved. The Type 1 spd serves as a guard against external surges while the Type 2 spds serve as internal shields protecting the unit internally. This guarantees comprehensive surge protection to your electrical equipment along with all the possible chances of overvoltage occurrences.
Choose LSP for Reliable Surge Protection Devices
Choosing dependable surge protection devices (SPDs) is essential to defend your cherished electrical systems against transient over voltages. At LSP, our clients have trusted us because of the good reputation we have built in producing SPDs for an extensive range of devices and meeting international requirements. For specialized protection of AC and DC powered systems, we provide a full range of Type 1, Type 2, and Type 1+2 SPDs. Moreover, we offer surge protection for industrial instrumentation, residential electrical installations, and photovoltaic systems.
With us, you have the guarantee that your electrical infrastructure is protected with advanced technology against surge protection.
Surge Protection for AC Power Systems
We know that voltage spikes in an AC power system caused by lightning, switching activities, or even fluctuations in the power grid can result in catastrophic damage to the electrical infrastructure. That is the reason we offer Type 1 and Type 2 SPDs for AC Applications. For higher protection, we also provide combined Type 1+ Type 2 SPDs which give complete protection against high energy surges and residual transients.
Type 1 AC Surge Protective Device FLP25-275/1S+1
Main Features:
- TUV, CB, and CE certifications
- Single Phase
- High discharge capacity due to heavy-duty zinc oxide varistor / GDT combination
Applications:
- Location of Use: Main Distribution Boards
- Network Systems: TT, TN-S
- Mode of Protection: L-PE, N-PE
- Housing: Monobloc Design
- Compliance: IEC 61643-11:2011, EN 61643-11:2012
Specification
| Nominal voltage Un | 230V |
|---|---|
| Max. continuous operating voltage Uc | 275V |
| Type | Type 1 / Class I / Class B |
| Impulse discharge current (10/350 μs) Iimp | 25kA @ Type 1 |
| Nominal discharge current (8/20 μs) In | 25kA @ Type 2 |
| Maximum discharge current (8/20 μs) Imax | 100kA @ Type 2 |
| Protective elements | Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV) and Gas Discharge Tube (GDT) |
Type 2 AC Surge Protective Device SLP40K-275/4S
Main Features:
- Compact
- Three Phase
- High discharge capacity due to heavy-duty zinc oxide varistor
Applications:
- Location of Use: Sub-Distribution Boards
- Network Systems: TN-S
- Mode of Protection: L-PE, N-PE
- Housing: Pluggable Design
- Compliance: IEC 61643-11:2011, EN 61643-11:2012
Specification
| Nominal voltage Un | 230V |
|---|---|
| Max. continuous operating voltage Uc | 275V |
| Type | Type 1 / Class I / Class B |
| Impulse discharge current (10/350 μs) Iimp | 25kA @ Type 1 |
| Nominal discharge current (8/20 μs) In | 25kA @ Type 2 |
| Maximum discharge current (8/20 μs) Imax | 100kA @ Type 2 |
| Protective elements | Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV) and Gas Discharge Tube (GDT) |
Type 1+2 AC Surge Protective Device FLP12,5-275/4S
Main Features:
- TUV, CB, and CE certifications
- Three Phase
- High discharge capacity due to heavy-duty zinc oxide varistor
Applications:
- Location of Use: Main Distribution Boards
- Network Systems: TN-S
- Mode of Protection: L-PE, N-PE
- Housing: Pluggable Design
- Compliance: IEC 61643-11:2011, EN 61643-11:2012
Specification
| Nominal voltage Un | 230V |
|---|---|
| Max. continuous operating voltage Uc | 275V |
| Type | Type 1+2 / Class I+II / Class B+C |
| Impulse discharge current (10/350 μs) Iimp | 12,5kA @ Type 1 |
| Nominal discharge current (8/20 μs) In | 20kA @ Type 2 |
| Maximum discharge current (8/20 μs) Imax | 50kA @ Type 2 |
| Protective elements | Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV) |
Surge Protection for DC Power Systems
Dealing with DC power systems, a challenge arises from the danger of overheating that stems from energy generation sources such as solar panels, distributor boxes, or even energy storage systems. We appreciate these specific difficulties and create specialized solutions with Type 1+Type 2 and Type 2 SPDs specially made for DC applications.
Type 2 DC PV Solar Surge Protective Device SLP-PV1000/S
Main Features:
- DIN rail installation
- For 1000V DC / PV / Solar power system
- High discharge capacity due to zinc oxide varistor
Applications:
- Location of Use: String box, Inverter
- Mode of Protection: (DC+) – PE, (DC-) – PE, (DC+) – (DC-)
- Housing: Pluggable Design
- Compliance: IEC/EN 61643-41
Specification
| Max. continuous operating voltage Uc | 1000V |
|---|---|
| Type | Type 2 / Class II / Class C |
| Nominal discharge current (8/20 μs) In | 20kA @ Type 2 |
| Total discharge current (8/20 μs) Itotal | 40KA |
| Maximum Discharge Current (8/20 μs) Imax | 40kA @ Type 2 |
| Protective elements | Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV) |
Type 1+2 DC PV Solar Surge Protective Device FLP-PV1000G/S
Main Features:
- DIN rail installation
- For 1000V DC / PV / Solar power system
- High discharge capacity due to zinc oxide varistor / GDT combination
Applications:
- Location of Use: String box, Inverter
- Mode of Protection: (DC+) – PE, (DC-) – PE, (DC+) – (DC-)
- Housing: Monoblock Design
- Compliance: IEC/EN 61643-41
Specification
| Max. continuous operating voltage (DC+) – PE, (DC-) – PE Uc | 725V |
|---|---|
| Max. continuous operating voltage (DC+) – (DC-) Uc | 1000V |
| Type | Type 1+2 / Class I+II / Class B+C |
| Impulse discharge current (10/350 µs) Iimp | 6.25KA |
| Nominal discharge current (8/20 μs) In | 20kA @ Type 2 |
| Maximum Discharge Current (8/20 μs) Imax | 40kA @ Type 2 |
| Protective elements | Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV) and Gas Discharge Tube (GDT) |
Conclusion
At LSP, we prioritize product quality by employing top-tier materials and strict manufacturing procedures. Our MOVs come from the reputable LKD brand guaranteeing excellent stability and performance, while GDTs from Vactech provides industry recognized reliable protective cover. All flame resistant plastic components and metal parts undergo thorough testing with a salt spray durability test that lasts 48 hours. Each detail, from the choice of components to the final assembly is checked with meticulous scrutiny.
LSP provides customers with protective solutions that stand the test of time, as well as unmatched systems for electrical protection. The trust our clients bestow upon us is earned due to key aspects such as custom solutions, quick delivery, advanced surge protection technology, and a 5-year warranty which guarantees that your infrastructure stays protected from damaging surges.
Conclusion: Selecting the Correct SPD Type for Electrical System Safety
Protecting your electrical system and connected equipment from the damaging effects of surges is a crucial aspect of electrical safety and operational reliability. Understanding the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 spds – their installation locations, protection targets, surge handling capacities, and applicable standards like those from ul, and the nec – is the foundation for building an effective surge protection strategy.
While Type 1 surge arresters serve as the primary defense against powerful external surges like lightning strikes, Type 2 spds provide essential protection against the more frequent internal transient overvoltages generated within your electrical installation. Often, the most robust and reliable protection is achieved through a coordinated approach that utilizes both types of spd in a layered configuration. This provides comprehensive surge protection from the secondary of the service transformer down to the point of use.
By carefully considering your specific needs, consulting with qualified professionals, and choosing reliable surge protective devices from reputable manufacturers like LSP, you can ensure that your electrical system is well-protected against the unpredictable nature of transients and surges, safeguarding your valuable equipment and ensuring the continued flow of power that is so vital in our modern world. The correct selection of spds is a critical investment in the safety and longevity of your electrical installation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Type 1 and Type 2 SPDs Be Used Alone?
There are some circumstances under which Type 1 as well as Type 2 spds could be used as standalone devices within an electrical installation. However, utilizing both of these types of spd in conjunction tends to offer the broadest coverage and comprehensive surge protection. An internal surge could potentially damage your equipment if you only use a Type 1 spd at the service entrance, and relying only on Type 2 spds on the load side might leave powerful external surges, such as lightning strikes, inadequately protected. Coordinated use of both types is often advised for the best results in accordance with the national electrical code (nec).
How Do I Determine If My System Needs Type 1 Or Type 2 SPD?
The predominance of lightning strikes in your area, the sophistication of your devices and the layout of your electrical system, especially the presence of a transformer, will determine whether you will need a Type 1 or Type 2 spd. To find out what you need, speak with a qualified electrician. He or she will be able to assess your situation and recommend the appropriate types and places for spds that can guarantee your surge protection needs.
An spd does not require much preventive maintenance. Supervision needs to come from a trained electrician from time to time. Some SPDs have signal lights that can alert you when they are in fault or when the service life is over. If a surge has been significant enough to cause ‘tugging’ on an spd, it needs to be inspected. Some of them may even need to be replaced. That needs to happen even if the person is still operationally functional. They look normal but the check needs to happen after the considerable surge event.
Do SPDs Require Regular Maintenance?
Yes. For heightened effectiveness of spds in protecting against overvoltage, they must be periodically inspected and have the potential of being replaced after considerable surge events. This ensures the continuous protection of your electrical system and connected specific equipment.
