Surge diverters
Used to limit the amount of voltage reaching an application, surge diverters protect transformers and switchgear from electrical surges.
Metrosil manufactures two types of surge diverter suitable for a variety of switch surge conditions.
VSD surge diverters
Metrosil VSD surge diverters have been designed to provide effective protection against voltage surges that may result from the operation of power distribution switchgear.
APPLICATIONS
The range is suitable for use on applications where switching is infrequent, but stored energy levels are high. Metrosil VSD's are particularly suited to the protection of all types of transformers, generators, motors (especially if there is a likelihood of switching in the stalled or accelerating condition), and any device/load where impulse voltage withstand level is low or not known.
TYPES
Metrosil VSD's are available with standard end caps or with various alternatives to match customer requirements.
MAINTENANCE
Maintenance is not necessary - it is recommended that surge diverters be replaced when the main operational components of the switchgear are changed, or if there has been some severely abnormal switching condition or switchgear failure. As these diverters are voltage limiting devices, they must be disconnected from the system before applying any insulation proof testing voltage, otherwise the diverters will be damaged.
BENEFITS
- Suitable for use in systems with working voltages from 3.3kV to 11kV rms
- Provides optimum protection under severe switching surge conditions
- Protects all types of transformers, generators and motors
SVL surge diverters
Metrosil SVL surge diverters type have been specifically developed for switching applications where the surge to be suppressed may have a fast rise time, but low energy content.
APPLICATIONS
These metal oxide varistors have highly non-linear volt-amp characteristics and therefore provide excellent protection against overvoltages. They are recommended for use with any device where the withstand impulse voltage is low and high-energy absorption is not required. Such applications include the protection of transformers and the protection of motors.
TYPES
SVL surge diverters are available in two formats. The standard format has a M6 ISO coarse threaded stud at each end, whereas the flying lead version has one M6 stud connection and an insulated 400mm long flexible lead to aid installation.
MAINTENANCE
No maintenance is necessary as these diverters are designed for a lifetime equivalent to that of the switch with which it operates. As with our VSD surge diverters, SVL diverters must be disconnected from the system before applying any insulation proof testing voltage, otherwise the diverters will be damaged.
BENEFITS
- Rated voltages from 1.2 kV to 15.5 kV
- Constructed from metal oxide varistors, offering excellent protection levels
- Suitable for loads which are switched with vacuum contactors
Auto-transformer motor starter applications (sometimes known at Korndorfer starters) can present high energy transients and un-predictable current surges. Due to this, we would advise all users of Metrosil VSD and SVL products to thoroughly check the application parameters against the device ratings regarding maximum energy and current, and that it is fit for purpose. Note that M&I Materials cannot be held responsible for damage due to exceeded ratings of Metrosil devices in this application. For motor starters of this type it may be that a much heavier duty distribution class (or higher) arrester with an energy rating much greater than Metrosil VSD or SVL devices is required.
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