A power surge refers to a sudden and brief increase in the electrical voltage flowing through a power outlet or electrical system. These surges can occur due to various reasons, such as lightning strikes, utility grid fluctuations, or the operation of high-powered electrical devices. Power surges can pose significant risks to electrical equipment and appliances, making surge protection devices crucial in the UK.
What is an SPD?
Surge Protective Devices (SPD) are used to protect the electrical installation from electrical power surges known as transient overvoltages.
What does the regs book say about SPD’s?
BS 7671:2018+A2:2022, Corrigendum (May 2023) in Regulation 443.4.1, mandates the use of Surge Protective Devices in order to protect against transient overvoltages where the consequence caused by the overvoltage could result in:
i. serious injury to, or loss of, human life
((ii. failure of a safety service, as defined in Part 2))<- Now Deleted by BS 7671:2018+A2:2022, Corrigendum (May 2023)
iii. significant financial or data loss.
For all other cases, protection against transient overvoltages shall be provided unless the owner of the installation declares it is not required due to any loss or damage being tolerable and they accept the risk of damage to equipment and any consequential loss.
Furthermore, Regulation 443.4.2 mandates that protection against overvoltages shall be considered in the case of equipment likely to produce switching overvoltages or disturbances exceeding
the applicable rated impulse voltage of equipment according to Table 443.2, e.g. where inductive or capacitive equipment, such as motors, transformers, capacitor banks, storage units or high current loads are installed.
The importance of using surge protection devices in the UK can be understood through the following basic points:
-Protection against Voltage Spikes: Power surges can cause voltage spikes that exceed the normal operating range of electrical devices. These spikes can damage sensitive electronic components, such as circuit boards, microprocessors, and integrated circuits, rendering the equipment inoperable. Surge protection devices act as a barrier, diverting excess voltage away from connected devices and preventing damage.
-Safeguarding Expensive Equipment: Many households and businesses in the UK rely on expensive electronic equipment, including computers, televisions, audio systems, and appliances. These devices are susceptible to damage from power surges. Surge protection devices help safeguard these investments by absorbing or redirecting excess voltage, ensuring their longevity and reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements.
-Mitigating Fire Hazards: Power surges can generate excessive heat within electrical equipment, increasing the risk of fire. By using surge protection devices, the excess voltage is diverted away from the equipment, reducing the likelihood of overheating and potential fire hazards. This is particularly important in the UK, where electrical safety regulations prioritise fire prevention.
-Ensuring Data Protection: Power surges can cause data loss or corruption in electronic devices, including computers, servers, and storage systems. Surge protection devices help maintain the integrity of data by preventing voltage spikes that could disrupt or damage storage devices. This is especially crucial for businesses that rely on critical data and information.
-Peace of Mind: Using surge protection devices provides peace of mind to homeowners and businesses, knowing that their electrical equipment is protected against unexpected power surges. It eliminates the worry of potential damage, downtime, and financial losses associated with electrical surges.
In conclusion, power surges can pose significant risks to electrical equipment, data, and property. Surge protection devices play a vital role in the UK by diverting excess voltage away from connected devices, safeguarding expensive equipment, mitigating fire hazards, ensuring data protection, complying with electrical regulations, and providing peace of mind. Investing in surge protection devices is a proactive measure to protect electrical systems and the valuable equipment connected to them.
