Surge Protective Device, referred to as SPD, is a variety of electronic equipment, instrumentation, communication lines to provide safety and protection of electronic devices, mainly used to limit overvoltage and discharge surge current. Surge Protective Device is generally connected in parallel with the protected equipment, when the overvoltage is generated, it can play the effect of shunt and voltage limitation. Prevent excessive current and voltage damage to the equipment.
What are Type 1, Type 2 and Type 3 SPD Surge Protectors?
Type 1 SPD: These are installed at the origin of the electrical installation, typically at the main distribution board. They are designed to protect against direct lightning strikes and are capable of handling very high surge currents. They are usually used in buildings with external lightning protection systems.
Type 2 SPD: These are installed at sub-distribution boards and are designed to protect against residual lightning energy and switching surges. They provide a lower level of protection compared to Type 1 SPDs but are essential for protecting sensitive electronic equipment within a building.
Type 3 SPD: These are installed close to the equipment they are protecting, such as at socket outlets or within the equipment itself. They are designed to protect against lower energy transients and are often used in conjunction with Type 1 and Type 2 SPDs for comprehensive protection.
Difference between Type 1, Type 2, Type 3 SPD surge protectors
The differences between Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3 Surge Protection Devices (SPDs) primarily relate to their installation locations, the level of protection they offer, and their intended use. Here’s a detailed comparison:
Type 1 SPD:
- Installation Location: Installed at the origin of the electrical installation, typically at the main distribution board.
- Protection Level: Designed to protect against direct lightning strikes and handle very high surge currents.
- Use Case: Essential for buildings with external lightning protection systems or where there is a high risk of direct lightning strikes.
- Characteristics: Can handle the highest surge current capacity, often exceeding 10 kA (kiloamperes).
Type 2 SPD:
- Installation Location: Installed at sub-distribution boards within the building.
- Protection Level: Designed to protect against residual lightning energy and switching surges that penetrate the building’s electrical system.
- Use Case: Commonly used in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings to protect sensitive electronic equipment.
- Characteristics: Provides a moderate level of protection with surge current capacities typically ranging from 5 kA to 20 kA.
Type 3 SPD:
- Installation Location: Installed close to the equipment they are protecting, such as at socket outlets or directly within the equipment.
- Protection Level: Designed to protect against lower energy transients and provide fine protection for sensitive devices.
- Use Case: Used in conjunction with Type 1 and Type 2 SPDs for comprehensive protection, especially for devices like computers, TVs, and other sensitive electronics.
- Characteristics: Handles lower surge currents, typically less than 5 kA, and provides the final level of defense against surges.
