Metal Oxide Surge Arresters safeguard high voltage equipment from overvoltages caused by lightning strikes or switching operations. Built around zinc oxide varistors, these gapless devices provide a non-linear voltage-current characteristic that enables effective operation across various voltage levels in power systems. The elimination of spark gaps removes the risk of spark over and system shock, while the absence of voltage grading systems simplifies design. They exhibit very low leakage currents under normal conditions and possess high energy absorbing capability with stability during prolonged discharge events.
Applications span substations protecting transformers and switchgear, power transmission and distribution systems, and industrial environments including mining, railways, and renewable energy installations. The arresters shield electrical motors, control systems, and other critical equipment from transient overvoltages.
Construction features a column of zinc oxide semiconductor resistors stacked within polymer or porcelain housings. Polymer designs often use silicone rubber that maintains hydrophobic, Ultraviolet (UV)-resistant, and non-ageing properties, while composite insulators may incorporate a fiberglass reinforced plastic tube with molded silicone rubber sheds. Robust sealing systems prevent moisture ingress, and pressure relief diaphragms provide safety during overloads. Grading rings ensure even voltage distribution in high voltage applications.
Technical specifications include rated voltages from distribution levels up to 800 kilovolts (kV), nominal discharge currents of 10 or 20 kiloamperes (kA), and operation within -40°C to +40°C ambient temperatures. Compliance with International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 60099-4 and IEEE standards ensures international requirements for performance and reliability are met.
Trusted Wholesaler of RaxPower Metal Oxide Surge Arresters
RaxPower is a premier brand specializing in smart energy solutions. Our Metal Oxide Surge Arrester delivers superior protection against lightning and overvoltage surges, making it the ideal choice for various applications. It operates using zinc oxide varistors that provide high resistance during normal conditions but rapidly divert excess energy to the ground during surges, preventing equipment damage and ensuring system reliability.
Key advantages include:
- High energy absorption capability for handling large surges
- Fast response time within nanoseconds for immediate protection
- Robust construction resistant to harsh environmental conditions
- Long service life with minimal maintenance needs
Applications span power utilities, renewable energy, and industrial sectors. Established in 2003 and located in Hebei Province, China, RaxPower leverages 21 years of expertise as a leading manufacturer of pole line hardware. Our commitment to quality is reflected in advanced manufacturing processes like hot forging and strict quality control, including automation, galvanization, and multi-stage testing, ensuring every arrester meets international standards for durability and performance.
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| Parameter | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Rated Voltage (Ur) | 624 | kV |
| Continuous Operating Voltage (Uc) | 499 | kV |
| Nominal Discharge Current (In) | 20 | kA |
| Lightning Impulse Residual Voltage (8/20 μs) | 1100 | kV |
| Switching Impulse Residual Voltage (30/80 μs) | 950 | kV |
| Steep Current Impulse Residual Voltage (1/10 μs) | 1200 | kV |
| High Current Withstand (4/10 μs) | 100 | kA |
| Rectangular Current Withstand (2ms) | 2600 | A |
| Thermal Energy Absorption Capability | 18 | kJ per kV of Ur |
| Line Discharge Class | 5 | – |
| Repetitive Charge Transfer Rating (Qrs) | 4.4 | C |
| Short Circuit Pressure Relief Capability | 80 | kA |
| Mechanical Strength (Specific Short-Term Load) | 23000 | Nm |
| Creepage Distance | 20000 | mm |
| Standards Compliance | IEC 60099-4, IEC 60099-5 | – |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
What is a metal oxide surge arrester and how does it protect electrical equipment?
A metal oxide surge arrester is a gapless device that uses zinc oxide varistors as resistor material to protect electrical systems from atmospheric or system-immanent overvoltages, including AC and DC overvoltages. Under normal operating conditions, it exhibits high resistance with minimal leakage current, but during overvoltage transients like lightning or switching surges, the resistance drops sharply due to its non-linear voltage-current characteristic, diverting excess energy to ground and limiting the voltage to a safe level, thus preventing damage to transformers, switchgear, and other equipment.
What are the main advantages of using metal oxide surge arresters?
Key advantages include elimination of spark over risk, no need for voltage grading systems, low leakage current, high energy absorption capability, excellent stability during prolonged discharges, resistance to pollution, UV resistance, hydrophobic properties, and a long service life with reliable performance in harsh environments.
In which applications are metal oxide surge arresters commonly used?
They are commonly used for protecting outdoor high voltage equipment, HVDC systems, substations, transformers, switchgear, cable systems, distribution networks, AC/DC railway networks, telecommunications infrastructure, and industrial facilities against overvoltages caused by lightning or switching operations.
What technical parameters are important when selecting a metal oxide surge arrester?
Important parameters include rated voltage (U_r), continuous operating voltage (U_c), nominal discharge current (I_n), line discharge class, thermal energy absorption capability, lightning impulse residual voltage, mechanical strength (e.g., specified short-term load), and compliance with standards like IEC 60099-4, based on network neutral point treatment and application requirements.
How is the construction designed for longevity and reliability?
The construction features a polymer or silicone housing with a composite insulator made of a fibreglass reinforced plastic (FRP) tube and molded silicone rubber sheds, providing high mechanical stability and excellent sealing against moisture ingress. Combined with UV resistance, non-ageing properties, and pollution performance, this ensures durability and reliable operation over the complete service life.
What international standards do your metal oxide surge arresters adhere to?
RaxPower metal oxide surge arresters are type tested and designed in accordance with international standards such as IEC 60099-4 for metal-oxide surge arresters without gaps, and may also follow IEC 62848-1, ensuring high performance, safety, and reliability. Rigorous quality control, including load testing and galvanization checks, ensures compliance with utility requirements.
How do you achieve cost savings without compromising on quality for OEM components?
We utilize advanced manufacturing technologies like hot forging for greater strength and accurate sizing, along with automated machines for uniform production. Our multi-stage testing and raw material selection ensure consistent quality, allowing us to offer competitive pricing while adhering to international standards.
Can you handle bulk orders with guaranteed on-time delivery for large-scale projects?
With over 21 years of manufacturing experience and 17,000 square meters of production facilities, we have the capacity for large-volume OEM orders. Our automated processes and efficient logistics enable us to meet project timelines, supported by strict quality assurance to maintain product consistency.
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