Surge Protection

Handbook

BE ON THE SAFE SIDE

 Surge Protection Handbook

CONTENT
1. Introduction 3

2. Overvoltage sources 11
2.1 Atmosferic discharge - Lightning 11
2.1.1 Influence of lightning strikes on power lines 13
2.1.2 Electromagnetic couplings 14
2.1.3 Switching surges 15
2.2 Temporary overvoltages 17
2.3 Surges caused by different electrostatic discharges 18

3. Earthing and network topology 21

3.1 TN system 21
3.1.1 TN-C system 22
3.1.2 TN-S system 22
3.1.3 TN-C-S system 23
3.2 TT system 24
3.3 IT system 25
3.4 TOV in different neutral earthing systems 26
3.5 Expected temporary overvoltage (Utov) 26
3.6 Risk assessment 27
3.6.1 TN network 27
3.6.2 TT network 27
3.7 Typical connection of SPD in different networks
(IEC 60364-5-53, edition 3.1, 2002.06) 29

4. Lightning protection 31
4.1 Standards 31
4.2 Need for lightning protection 31
4.3 Protection level and requirements for SPDs 34
4.4 Lightning protection system LPS 36
4.5 Lightning effects 42
4.6 Grounding 45
5. Surge protective devices 47
5.1 Surge protection elements 48
5.1.1 Classification of overvoltage protection elements 49
5.1.2 Overvoltage protection elements. Basic characteristics 50
5.1.2.1 Voltage switching components 52
5.1.2.2 Voltage limiting component 53
5.2 Characteristics of surge protective devices 55
5.2.1 Classification of SPDs 55
5.2.2 Electrical parameters of SPD 59
5.3 How to select proper value of back-up fuse 61
5.4 SPD selector 62
5.4.1 The expected types and levels of overvoltage impulses and currents 63
5.4.2 Characteristics of LV power supply system 65
5.4.3 Determining dielectric withstand category of protected devices 66
5.4.4 Determining protection level at the installation point of SPD 66
5.4.5 SPD selection 68
5.4.6 Installation of SPDs and analysis of its effect on the protection
provided by SPDs 69

6. Applications 72
6.1 Households 72
 Surge Protection Handbook 3

1. Introduction
The following question is frequently asked: Why is surge protection required on
installations? To answer, we need to understand the nature and different sources of
overvoltages.

Nature of the overvoltage event

Figure 1a shows a common form of overvoltage, the temporary overvoltage or TOV.
These events - which occur on the power distribution networks due to switch or
regulation problems are characterised by a relatively long duration in time (many
cycles of the AC waveform), but relatively low overvoltage - 1,2 to 1,4 p.u. (per unit of
the nominal AC r.m.s. voltage).

Nominal operating voltage

TOV - Temporary overvoltage

Figure 1a: Common form of overvoltage - TOV

Figures 1b and 1c show overvoltage events characterised by a very short duration,

typically a few microseconds (µs), but excessively high magnitude (kV). These events
are commonly referred to as voltage surges or transients. Two of the more common
sources of such events are the switching of inductive loads and lightning induced
disturbances in magnetic fields with a subsequent induced overvoltage on electrical
systems within the building.
4 Introduction

Figures 1b, 1c: Various forms of overvoltage events

The role of a surge protective device (SPD) is to reduce the effects of these
overvoltages on a structure's internal distribution systems to the levels which the
interconnected electrical equipment can withstand.

While performing this important task or mitigating the damaging effects of

overvoltages, the SPD must also ensure a safe behaviour in the event of its own
failure. There are several causes for such failure, the most common being the
following:

 exposure to a surge beyond its rating,

 a TOV event with durations beyond sustainability,

 natural aging and end-of-life.

Aging of an SPD results each time internal metal oxide varistor (MOV) is called upon,
to divert surge current and safely protect the downstream equipment. A MOV is rated
to withstand one surge of its maximum rated value (described Imax or Iimp) or many
surges of a lower operating value (described In).

In order to ensure safe behaviour at the end of its life cycle, SPD must be designed to
safely disconnect from the power system which it is protecting. This is the role of the
internal disconnector which every quality designed SPD shall contain. These devices
either disconnect or limit the current within the SPD during failure and help prevent
hazardous conditions (e.g. fires) from occurring. The SPD should also incorporate
some forms of disconnecting indication showing the user it is no longer providing
 Surge Protection Handbook 5

protection to the downstream equipment. More information on disconnectors will be

provided later on...

The need for protection

We now understand the nature of overvoltages; but why do we need protection? With
the advent of microprocessor, the world has experienced a proliferation of sensitive
electronic components into every walk of life from household appliances, to the
sophisticated computing and communications systems which serve our
competitiveness as nations. Our hunger for lifestyle such advances have brought
shows no sign of abating. However, these very advances in circuit integration and
miniaturization have come with a cost - lower immunity to interference and a greater
susceptibility to damage from overvoltages.

The risks
To put this in perspective, the energy needed to cause failure to the typical integrated
electronics is less than one millionth of what could safely be sustained by discrete
technologies like the transistors and even more so in the past era of vacuum tube
technology. Moreover, increasingly polluted power distribution networks where
electrical disturbances, such as switching surges, lightning strikes, induced noise and
poor supply regulation, are all too common and we have a recipe for equipment
damage.

This damage may be all too obvious, as evident in catastrophic system failures, or
may show in more subtle mechanisms, such as accelerated component degradation,
reduced equipment life and lost or corruption of data. In extreme cases, such
overvoltage surges and transients can cause facility fires and risk to human life.

The consequence of an unexpected power surge can be catastrophic to most

businesses or facilities. To fully evaluate this cost over the designated life of the
facility, it is necessary to consider not only repair and replacement costs of capital
damage, but more importantly, the less tangible costs associated with operational
downtime, corrupted or lost data and forgone opportunities, to name just a few.
Facility managers are all too aware that as the electronic systems under their
jurisdiction are becoming more complex and integrated into our everyday operations,
our reliance upon their smooth and continuous operation increases and the
implementation of cost-effective protection measures is turning into a critical
component of their job.
6 Introduction

Evolving industry needs

Additionally, the last ten years have seen demands being placed on power utilities
like never before. Not only are customers increasingly demanding better quality in the
power they receive - continuity of service, performance-based rates and penalties for
inconsistent reliability - this is happening at a time of great transition within the
industry as a whole. The global awareness of the limits of sustainable energy is
fuelling a rapid expansion in renewable technologies concurrent with a move towards
deregulation of the power industry in many western countries.

Inherent to many of these newer technologies, photovoltaic, wind, wave generation

etc., is a reliance on the renewable resources provided by nature. As a result, such
facilities are often particularly exposed to the forces of nature. For example, wind
farms are typically situated in open or elevated locations, such as open plains,
offshore and onshore, and thus rendering them particularly susceptible to lightning
induced damage.

The process leading to the formation of the lightning discharge involves the
development of strong electric field strengths (measured in kV/m) between cloud and
ground as charge begins to separate between the upper and lower regions of the
cumulonimbus cloud mass. Eventually, this field reaches a point where a stepped
down-leader starts to propagate from the cloud towards the ground, causing the
localized electric field in which the wind turbine is located to escalate extremely
rapidly. At some point in this macro-time event, the electric field at points on the
ground and surrounding structures reaches the point where localized air breakdown
begins to occur. Any object which contributes to a magnification of this charge by
means of its geometrical shape, such as the tips of the turbine blades, will enhance
the launch of competing upward-streamers to intercept the rapidly approaching
down-leader. As the two meet, many hundreds of coulombs of charge are transferred
from the usually positively charged ground to the negatively charged cloud (negative
lightning), resulting in the spectacular return-stroke and subsequent rapid collapse of
the localized electric field.

The threat posed to exposed structures is not the only one caused due to direct
lightning interceptions, but there is also the rapidly collapsing electric field (in the
order of kV/ms) from nearby strikes. These changes in field serve to induce very large
voltage surges within the wiring and electrical components of the turbine which can
exceed the withstand level of these electrical systems and cause damage.

The cost of such damage can be extensive, particularly since wind farms are often
located offshore or in remote and difficult to access terrain, such as hilltops. It is for
this reason that lightning and surge protection has become a critical consideration in
 Surge Protection Handbook 7

such installations. System integrators often work closely with manufacturers to

ensure the correct selection of LPS and SPDs.

The growing interest in renewable energy generation has also lead to a proliferation
of photovoltaic panels in applications ranging from small residential installations to
large commercial “sun farms”. Such installations are located externally by their very
nature and thus particularly subject to the effects of lightning induced damage. As a
result, the use of SPDs on such panels is becoming increasingly important and new
standards, such as EN50539, are being developed to address the testing and
performance of SPDs intended for use in PV systems.

Making SPDs safer

By definition, an SPD contains at least one nonlinear component, which is intended
to limit the surge voltage and divert the surge current. Inherent in the operation of
such devices is the possibility of unexpected failure or rapid end-of-life. Under such
conditions, it is important that the SPD can safely isolate itself from the prospective
supply to which it is connected without presenting a potential fire hazard. It is for this
reason that standards require that SPDs incorporate some form of “disconnector”,
either internal or external, and manufacturers go to significant lengths to carefully
design these components for safe and reliable operation if required. This often
involves many complex and interrelated aspects, such as: thermal response times,
optimization of i2t with surge capacity and arc quenching.

SPD manufacturers are only just starting to address these, somewhat more onerous
requirements. A number of innovative new disconnection designs have been
developed and patented.

Most of these use various mechanical shutters to extend the arc length while
disconnecting, thereby causing self-extinguishing even though a voltage zero-crossing
point is not present.

Regulation governing installation of SPDs

With the increase in world globalization, manufacturers of surge protective devices
(SPDs) are looking to enter new markets beyond their historical geographic regions of
service. Many have found this decision to be more complicated than anticipated,
mainly due to the myriad of local norms and standards, regulating and governing the
installation of SPDs. Additionally, the variety of local market preferences such as -
8 Introduction

required modes of protection, form factor of the enclosure, types of status indication -
and the picture rapidly becomes complex.

Within the USA, it is mandatory that the National Electrical Code be followed (with a
few exceptions). This in turn requires that the SPD be “listed” for its application,
thereby making compliance with UL 1449 mandatory for an SPD manufacturer
wishing to sell its products in the US. Contrary to popular understanding, there are
many authorities which are authorized for testing in accordance with UL1449
standard. Obviously, Underwriters Laboratories Inc. is one of them, but there are also
others, such as Canadian Standards Authority (CSA mark) and Intertek Services (ETI
mark), etc. These are broadly called NRTL (nationally recognized test laboratories) in
the USA.

The situation with IEC is different. An SPD manufacturer may still sell its product,
even if it does not comply with the relevant IEC standard, and even if the country of
manufacturer is an international signatory to the IEC. However, this is not the case at
CENELEC levels where European norms, such as EN 61643-11, are called up by the
mandatory LV Directives. This said, aspects of this “mandatory” situation are still not
fully enacted and it is to remain so until a specific law is imposed to regulate it.

Other developing countries, such as China and India are actively developing their own
national standards and regulations governing the installation of SPDs. Most of these
draw up their requirements and carry out tests in accordance with existing IEC
standards.

The 35 mm DIN standards for enclosures have found wide acceptance in panel
boards for such devices as miniature circuit breakers (MCBs) and SPDs, making them
ideal for power. Not only are most IEC based SPDs available in this industry standard
package for easy mounting, but inherent to this packaging is the comforting fact that
such an SPD must incorporate safe disconnection. In other words, it is not relying on
its enclosure alone for safety.

International standards such as the IEC 62305 series on Lightning Protection and the
IEC 61643 series on Surge Protection, categorize SPDs into various test classes
associated with the electrical exposure of the location in which they are intended to
be installed.

For example, an SPD tested to test Class I is intended to be installed where it is likely
to carry direct or partial lightning current, while an SPD tested to test Class II is
intended to be installed where overvoltage protection of electronic systems from the
effects of induced lightning currents is required. SPDs tested to Class III are generally
installed at the end-use equipment such as power outlets, or for data and signal line
protection.
 Surge Protection Handbook 9

Conclusions
The electrical environment in which today's sensitive electronic systems are required
to operate is becoming increasingly polluted by electrical disturbances, such as
voltage surges and transients. At the same time, the susceptibility of these systems
to failure has increased as the use of micro-controlled based electronics has
proliferated into even the simplest consumer appliances.

This situation is driving the need for effective surge protection at competitive cost.
Iskra Zaščite is the leading designer and OEM manufacturer of surge protective
devices. It is at the forefront of many new and patented technological advances and
actively participates in various international standards setting committees dealing
with surge protection, including IEC, Cenelec, UL and IEEE.
10
 Surge Protection Handbook 11

2. Overvoltage sources
2.1 Atmospheric discharge - Lightning
During storms, powerful electrical currents flow between clouds and ground. The
consequence of these discharge currents is the induction of overvoltages and surges
in metallic elements of buildings, power supply and communication lines due to the
electromagnetic coupling. Overvoltage can also be generated by a direct strike which
is more dangerous than indirect strike. Direct strike may result in explosion, fire, or
total destruction of the struck object. In order to minimize damage risk due to
lightning surges, it is important to describe the transient characteristics of such
pulses, that could cause a partial or total collapse of distribution network or electrical
system (power, communication, etc.).

The first parameter of the lightning strike is maximum magnitude of the current. This
value cannot be exactly predicted. It appears in the range between several tens of kA
and 200 kA. The probability of amplitude discharge intensity is statistically described
in Figure 2.

Figure 2: Statistical distribution of the amplitude discharge density

12 Overvoltage sources

The highest probability of current magnitude is in the range between 10 and 30 kA.
Waveforms used for testing surge protection devices have a long tradition of using
unidirectional waves, particularly a 1.2/50 µs voltage impulse and an 8/20 µs or
10/350 µs current impulse (Figures 3a, 3b, 3c).

Figures 3a, 3b, 3c: Standard current lightning surge waveforms

In Figure 3, the value 8/20 µs or 10/350 µs refers to the 8 or 10 µs rise time of the
surge, and the 20 or 350 µs fall time. The latter value defines the time for the voltage
to reach half of its peak value.

This rapid raise of current at the beginning of pulse causes strong magnetic field,
creating dangerous levels of induced voltages. Therefore, an important factor is a
rate of current rise. This parameter is usually expressed in kA/µs. This data is
required for voltage determination on the protected device that includes inductance.
The distance between protective device and object or device should be as short as
possible.
 Surge Protection Handbook 13

If the aim of design is to provide protection for a direct and indirect stroke to the
building, the correct selection of surge protection devices also requires knowledge of
lightning charge:

(2-1)

The protective device must be chosen with sufficient current-handling capability to

sustain the surges resulting from the lightning.

Lightning down-conductors and surge protection devices dissipate switching surges

by absorbing thermal energy. Next important parameter is therefore specific energy:

(2-2)

The amount of dissipated energy is related to the switching surge waveform, its
magnitude, the system impedance, circuit topology, the characteristics of surge
protection device, and the number of strikes. The selected equipment should have an
energy capability greater than the energy related to the expected switching surges on
the system.

2.1.1 Influence of lightning strikes on power lines

Overhead power lines are distributed on wide geographical area and are thus very
likely to be affected by lightning. Different atmospheric discharges in the vicinity of
lines cause the induction of overvoltage along the power line. In that case,
transmission line itself acts as a widespread antenna. The power line network is
primarily designed for transmission of electrical energy but it is also the media for
transmission of overvoltage through the network. The power lines therefore suffer
different consequences caused by atmospheric discharges. A lightning strike can
generate transient overvoltage on an overhead line by:

 direct strike to a phase conductor (shielding failure),

 direct strike to the overhead shield wire or tower, which then flashes over to the
phase conductor,

 strike a several hundred meters away from the power line (indirect strike), which
also induces overvoltage on the power line.

The overvoltage impulses caused by direct or indirect strikes travel from the point of
14 Overvoltage sources

impact through the whole network. These impulses can be transferred also through
transformers from higher to lower levels of a network where they present another
source of overvoltage disturbances.

2.1.2 Electromagnetic couplings

Galvanic connection causes the most dangerous overvoltage and arises at juncture of
two wires with different operating voltages or electrical arc appearance between such
wires.

The example is a stick between communication and power cables (Figure 4a).
Overvoltage from one network to another can also be transferred if there exists
capacitive coupling between two networks (Figure 4b), or in the case of parasitic
capacitance in the transformer, which will transfer overvoltage from high voltage side
to low voltage side in the case of unbalance on the high voltage side. The most
common coupling between two networks is inductive coupling. It is well known
according to the Faraday's law that magnetic field varying in time will induce voltage in
the loop inside that field. If magnetic field corresponds to the transient current with
the high rate of change, transient overvoltage will be induced in such loop (Figure 4c).

a) Galvanic b) Capacitive c) Inductive

Figure 4: Different couplings between two electrical systems

The lightning is always followed by electromagnetic field. When lightning develops,

space charges in the thunder cloud and further in the stepped leader, causing
electrical field in the surroundings. Electrical field brings to charge separation in metal
 Surge Protection Handbook 15

constructions. Due to impulsive character of the lightning current, rate of change of

the magnetic field is fast in the conductive loops and high voltages may be induced.
The example of such induction is lightning hitting a down conductor installation of the
house (Figure 5).

c
b

230/380 V

Figure 5: Induced voltage in the surroundings of the lightning down conductor

Should lightning strike into the air terminal, lightning current IL flows through down
conductor to the earth. Induced voltage in the installation loops causes different
disturbances, i.e. faults that can even lead to a fire. If the loop is at the horizontal
distance c from the down conductor, and loop dimensions are a and b as in Figure 5,
the induced voltage V equals:

For instance, for the square loop 10x10 m, 1 m away from the conductor, mutual
inductance M equals 4.8 H and, under assumption di/dt = 40 kA/s, induced voltage
amounts to 192 kV.

2.1.3 Switching surges

Switching overvoltage is transient disturbance caused by switching operation, fault

condition or fault clearance in a power supply system. Any sudden change in the
system can initiate damped oscillations with high frequencies that clear only when
the system is stabilized again to its new steady state. Switching actions in a power
supply may be caused intentionally (load or capacitor switching) or can happen
unintentionally (power system faults).
16 Overvoltage sources

t [ms]

t [ms]

Figure 6: Switching overvoltage

When switching an RCL load on or off by a circuit breaker, peak of switching

overvoltage does usually not overreach a double value of the rated system voltage
(Figure 6). The maximum voltage is mainly determined by closing instant of the
breaker in relation to the voltage phase of supply system. The highest high-frequency
overvoltage occurs when the breaker is closed at the maximum value of supply
voltage.

Higher overvoltage can appear due to switching inductive loads, such as inductors,
transformers, motors as well as capacitive loads. Interruption of short-circuit currents
also causes high overvoltage. As with circuit breaker caused overvoltage, here also
the peak is correlated with the power-frequency voltage value in the moment of
switching operation.

The shape of the overvoltage wave is a ringing wave. Rate of voltage rise is usually in
the order of a few kV/µs, while the transient can then last from µs to ms.

The time duration of switching surges is much longer than lightning surge duration,
but voltage peak is significantly weaker. The peak is determined by response of the
low-voltage installation, inductance and capacitance of a circuit, type of switching
(on/off, circuit breaker or fuse) and load types.
 Surge Protection Handbook 17

In the case of resistive load, switching currents are in the order of rated equipment
value. When inductive/capacitive load is switched on/off, high frequency oscillations
appear. Oscillating voltage is superimposed with rated voltage of the system and total
voltage represents the stress to the equipment connected to the power supply
system. Overvoltage caused by switching on load side is higher than overvoltage on
the line side.

The presence of capacitor banks for the power factor correction is also a cause of
capacitor-switching surges. These capacitor banks are typically installed on a
medium-voltage side. Capacitor-switching overvoltage is frequently below double
value of the system normal voltage (Figure 7).

Figure 7: Overvoltage due to capacitor switching

Occurrence of short-circuits or earth faults on the medium-voltage side may cause

that phase-to-earth voltage of fault-free phase increases to the phase-to-phase
voltage. Such overvoltage is further transferred from the medium voltage to low-
voltage side of power supply transformer.

Fuse operation in power supply network initiates overvoltage, which takes somewhat
triangular wave shape. This overvoltage is less frequent than the one caused by
switching operations.

2.2 Temporary overvoltages

Temporary overvoltages (TOVs) are defined as AC overvoltages with significant
duration and amplitude appearing in a system following a fault condition. A wide
range of phenomena, either resulting from normal system operation or from
accidental conditions, can produce overvoltages, which must be distinguished from
other surge overvoltages due to their longer duration time.
18 Overvoltage sources

These overvoltages occur at the power system frequency. Short-duration overvoltages

(lasting a few seconds at most) are considered “swells” and should not be confused
with the generic term “temporary overvoltage”. Swells end when the power system
returns to its normal state without intervention. Extended overvoltages generally
require operation of some existing over-current protective equipment to clear the
circuit. On the other hand, surge protective devices (SPDs) at the present state of
technology - as applied for protection against lightning and switching surges do not
have the energy-handling capability required for limiting extended temporary
overvoltages, but might tolerate short swells of limited magnitude. Therefore, when
selecting the maximum operating voltage for SPDs at a particular installation, the
expected magnitude of duration, and probability occurrence of temporary
overvoltages at the actual site have to be taken into consideration.

2.3 Surges caused by different electrostatic discharges

The electrical charges that surround us are commonly separated by external
influence, such as motion of different materials. Such separations lead to charged
objects that deform electrostatic field in the vicinity. When two charged objects are
close enough, the strength of electrostatic field reaches certain value and
electrostatic discharge occurs.

Measurements of electrostatic voltage and current discharge waveforms showed

impulsive character with the rise time of a few nanoseconds and duration of about
0.1 µs. The peak current reaches 100 A, while overvoltage peak is up to 40 kV
(Figure 8).

Figure 8: Electrostatic discharge pulse current

 Surge Protection Handbook 19

The electrostatic discharge is commonly caused by people walking across an

insulating carpet or when synthetic cloths rub against the skin. In such cases,
electrostatic discharge voltage between a human and earth can reach up to 35 kV in
the case of running across the carpet or up to 18 kV when sitting on an insulated
chair.

Electrostatic discharges cause insulation breakdowns of many electronic devices

during handling and shipping.
20
 Surge Protection Handbook 21

3. Earthing and network topology

International standard IEC 60364 distinguishes three families of earthing
arrangements, using the two-letter codes TN, TT and IT.

The first letter indicates the connection between earth and power supply equipment
(generator or transformer)

T : direct connection of a point with earth

I : no point is connected with earth (isolation), except perhaps via a high impedance

The second letter indicates the connection between earth and the electrical device
being supplied

T : direct connection of a point with earth

N : direct connection to neutral at the origin of installation, which is connected to the

earth

3.1 TN system
In TN earthing system, one of the points in the generator or transformer, is connected
with earth, usually the star point in a three-phase system. The body of the electrical
device is connected via this earth connection to the transformer.

The conductor, that connects the exposed metallic parts of the consumer, is called
protective earth (PE). The conductor that connects to the star point in a three-phase
system, or carries the return current in a single-phase system, is called neutral (N). It
is to be distinguished among three variants of TN system:
22 Earthing and network topology

TN-C: a combined PEN conductor fulfils the function of both, a PE and an N

conductor

TN-S: PE and N are separate conductors that are connected together only near the
power source

TN-C-S: part of the system uses a combined PEN conductor; at a certain point it is
split up into separate PE and N lines. The combined PEN conductor typically
occurs between the substation and the entry point into the building, and
separates the service head.

3.1.1 TN-C system

In TN-C system, combined PE and N conductors (PEN) are used from the transformer
neutral point to the consuming device. An example of a typical TN-C system is
presented in Figure 9.

Figure 9: TN-C system (ER earthing impedance, CI conductor impedance)

The neutral current and the earth-fault current flows via the same return path to the
earthed neutral point of the power transformer. Usage of a single conductor for both
currents reduces the cost of an additional conductor needed for separate N and PE
connections.

3.1.2 TN-S system

The separate protective earth (PE) and neutral (N) conductors from transformer to
consuming device are used in TN-S system. The PE conductor is connected to the
neutral conductor at the neutral point of the power transformer (Figure 10). The
neutral current and the earth-fault current use separate conductive paths.
 Surge Protection Handbook 23

Figure 10: TN-S system

Exposed conductive parts are connected to the PE conductor for the conduction of
earth-fault current. Separated PE and N conductors allow successful application of
residual-current circuit breakers.

3.1.3 TN-C-S system

This system represents combination of the above defined TN-C and TN-S systems. TN-
C-S system has a separate N and separate PE conductor, as well as their combination
as PEN conductor (Figure 11). PEN conductor is used for the connection between
power supply transformer and service-entrance point of the building. After this point,
separate N and PE conductors are utilized. As in the TN-S system, separate N and PE
conductors inside the building allow usage of successful application of residual-
current circuit breakers.

Figure 11: TN-C-S system (with overcurrent protective device - OPCD)

TN-C-S earthing system is well accepted in Europe and in most residential

installations in the US and Canada.
24 Earthing and network topology

3.2 TT system
In TT earthing system, the protective earth connection of the consumer is provided by
a local connection to earth, independently of any connection at the generator.

The greatest advantage of the TT earthing system is that it is clear of high and low
frequency noises coming through neutral wire from various electrical appliances
connected to it. This is why, TT has always been prefered for special applications like
telecommunication sites benefiting from interference free earthing. Additionally, TT
does not pose the risk of broken neutral.

In locations where power is distributed overhead and TT is used, earthing conductor

installation is not at risk should any overhead conductor be fractured, e.g., due to a
fallen tree or branch.

In pre-RCD era, TT earthing system was unattractive for general use because of its
slim capability of accepting high currents in short circuit (in comparison with TN
systems). But as residual current devices mitigate this disadvantage, the use of TT
earthing systems is becoming more popular in premises where all AC power circuits
are RCD protected.

Figure 12: TT system

 Surge Protection Handbook 25

3.3 IT system
In an IT network, the distribution system has no connection to earth at all or it only
has high impedance connection.

In such systems, an insulation monitoring device is used for monitoring the

impedance.

Figure 13: IT system

26 Earthing and network topology

3.4 TOV in different neutral earthing systems

Magnitude of temporary overvoltage in the power supply system strongly depends on
the neutral earthing and the type and location of a fault causing TOV. TOV magnitudes
for different types of neutral earthing and scenarios are given in Table 1.

Occurrence of UTOV System Maximum values for UTOV

Between phase and earth TT, IT 12000 + Uref (duration 200ms)

(faults in the medium-voltage
network)
Between neutral and earth TT, IT 1200 V (duration 200ms)
(faults in the medium-voltage
network)
Between phase and neutral TT, TN 1.73 x Uref
(loss of the neutral
conductor in LV network)
Between phase and earth IT 1.73 x Uref
(accidental earthing of the
phase conductor in LV
system)
Between phase and neutral TT, IT and TN 1.45 x Uref for duration up to 5 s
(short-circuit between line
conductor and neutral
conductor)

Table 1: Temporary overvoltage for different types of neutral earthing, fault type and fault
location [adopted from IEC 61643-11 Ed 1]

3.5 Expected temporary overvoltage (Utov)

Some examples of TOV:

 fault (short circuit) distributed from high voltage side

 earth short circuits (fall of phase conductor on earth)

 short circuits (one pole, two poles)

 loss of neutral conductor

 Surge Protection Handbook 27

3.6 Risk assessment

SPD (surge protective device) should be subjected to different types of overvoltage
Utov (temporary overvoltage).

3.6.1 TN network

For SPD connected between L and PE, the general rule for dealing with maximal
temporary overvoltage is Utov = 335V. SPD itself can be exposed to this phenomenon
for a longer period.

A solution is to increase nominal voltage of SPD to 335 V (in this case SPD is not
subjected to Utov), or disconnect it from live conductor via thermal disconnector, but
in such case SPD is out of order.

IK F

R= 0

U
IK=
3.Z

Figure 14: Fuse interruption

Proper disconnection of overcurrent protection F (fuse) is achieved due to low

conductor impedance, meaning that short circuit current Ik is able to interrupt fuse.

3.6.2 TT network

F
L

N
SPD

RE

IK

Figure 15: No overcurrent protection

When SPD is connected between L and PE conductors, proper overcurrent protection

reaction (fuse cannot separate SPD from live conductor) is not possible. Besides,
there is also a problem of touch voltage, which is higher than allowed 50 V (in this
case 230V).
28 Earthing and network topology

U SPD

Figure 16: Touch voltage

A solution is to installing RCD (residual current device) upstream SPD.

F I

SPD

Figure 17: RCD installation

However, this is not a reasonable solution because RCD has relatively low dielectric
strength and can suffer mechanical damage in case of atmospheric discharges.
These damages can have serious influence on RCD operation and are not visible,
making operator unable to know if it is still functioning.

In TT system, SPD should be connected in two ways: 3+1 or 4+0 connection.

Connection 3+1 can be used before or after RCD.

Connection 4+0 is allowed only in the case when SPD is connected downstream of
RCD.

L1 L1
L2 L2
L3 L3
N

Figure 18: TT system - connection 3+1 Figure 19: TT system - connection 4+0
 Surge Protection Handbook 29

Galvanic separation between N and PE conductor

F
L1
L2
L3

RE , I K

Figure 20: Galvanic separation between N and PE conductor

If short circuit and impulse overvoltage happen in the system at the same time, Ik
(short circuit current) starts flowing through gas discharge tube (GDT). That is the
reason why GDT should be able to extinguish the follow-up current and at the same
time preventing allowing touch voltage endangering human life.

3.7 Typical connection of SPD in different networks

(IEC 60364-5-53, edition 3.1, 2002.06)

L1 L1
L2 L2
L3 L3
N

PEN
PE

Figure 21: TN-C SPD (3+0) Figure 22: TN-S SPD (4+0)

L1 L1 I
L2 L2
L3 L3
N RCD

PE

PE

Figure 23: TT SPD (3+1) Figure 24: TT SPD (4+0)

30 Earthing and network topology

L1
L2
L3

PEN

Figure 25: IT SPD (3+0); note: Uc= 3 Uref

Reference:
1. IEC 61643-1 Surge protective devices connected to low voltage power distribution systems-
requirements and test
2. IEC 61643-12 Surge protective devices connected to low voltage power distribution
systems- selection and application principles
3. CEI IEC 60364-5-53 Electrical installation of buildings- Part 5-53: Selection and erection of
electrical equipment isolation, switching and control
4. IEC PAS 60099-7 Surge arresters- Part 7: Glossary of terms and definitions from IEC
publications 60099-4, 60099-4, 60099-6, 61643-1, 61643-12, 61643-21, 61643-311,
61643-321, 61643-331 and 61643-341
5. IEC 61000-4-5: Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) Part 4-5: Testing and measurement
techniques - Surge immunity test
6. IEC 62305-1 Protection against lightning- Part 1: General principles
7. IEC 62305-2 Protection against lightning- Part 2: Risk management
8. IEC 62305-3 Protection against lightning- Part 3: Physical damage to structures and life
hazard
9. IEC 62305-4 Protection against lightning- Part 4: Electrical and electronic systems within
structures
10. IEC 61312-1 Protection against lightning electromagnetic impulse (LEMP)- Part 1: General
principle
11. IEC 61312-2 Protection against lightning electromagnetic impulse (LEMP)- Part 2: Shielding
of structures, bonding inside structures and earthing
12. IEC 61312-3 Protection against lightning electromagnetic impulse (LEMP)- Part 3:
Requirements of surge protection devices
13. IEC 61312-4 Protection against lightning electromagnetic impulse (LEMP)- Part 4:
Protection of equipment in existing structures
 Surge Protection Handbook 31

4. Lightning protection
4.1 Standards
Lightning protection covers the fields of interception systems, down conductors,
grounding, potential equalisation or isolation. In the following standards the complete
procedure of design drawings is defined, from the calculations to the use of
materials.

IEC 62305 - 1: 2010 Protection against lightning Part 1: General principles

IEC 62305 - 2: 2010 Protection against lightning Part 2: Risk management

lEC 62305 - 3: 2010 Protection against lightning Part 3: Physical damage to

structures and life hazard

IEC 62305 - 4: 2010 Protection against lightning Part 4: Electrical and electronic
systems within structures

4.2 Need for lightning protection

Lightning flashes to earth may be hazardous to the structures and lines.

The hazard to a structure can result in:

 damage to the structure and to its components,

 failure of associated electrical and electronics systems,

 injury to living beings in or close to the structure.

Consequential effects of the damage and failures may be extended to the

surroundings of the structure or may involve its environment.
32 Lightning protection

To reduce the loss due to lightning, protection measures may be required. Whether
they are needed, and to what extent, should be determined by risk assessment.

The risk - R - is the value of a probable average annual loss. For each type of loss
which may appear in a structure or in a service, the relevant risk shall be evaluated:

R1: risk of loss of permanent injury of human life

R2: risk of loss of service to the public

R3: risk of loss of cultural heritage

R4: risk of loss of economic values, should be assessed whenever the economic
justification of lightning protection is considered (IEC 62305-1; 2010)

To evaluate risks, R, the relevant risk components (partial risks depending on the
source and type of damage) shall be defined and calculated. Risk components
description is found in the standard IEC 62305-2; 2010.

Each risk, R, is the sum of its risk components. When calculating the risk, its
components may be grouped according to the source of damage and the type of
damage.

In Table 2, the risk components are considered for each type of loss for the structure
and line.

Source of damage Flash to a structure Flash near a Flash to a line Flash near a line
structure connected to the connected to the
structure structure
S1 S2 S3 S4
Risk component RA RB RC RM RU RV RW RZ

Risk for each type of loss

R1 * * *1) *1) * * *1) *1)
R2 * * * * * *
R3 * *
2) 2)
R4 * * * * * * * *
1) Only for structures with risk of explosion, and for hospitals or other structure where failure of internal systems immediately
endangers human life.
2) Only for properties where animals may be lost.

Table 2: Risk components (IEC 62305-2; 2010)

By calculating some of the risk components, the isokeraunic maps are used.
Isokeraunic maps show areas where a similar number of thunderstorms occur each
year.
 Surge Protection Handbook 33

Figure 26: Isokeraunic map

The lightning current is the primary source of damage. The following sources are
distinguished by the strike attachment point:

S1: flashes to a structure

S2: flashes near a structure
S3: flashes to a line
S4: flashes near a line

For practical application of this risk assessment, it is useful to distinguish between three
basic types of damage, which can appear as a consequence of lightning flashes. They are
as follows:

D1: injury to living beings by electric shock

D2: physical damage
D3: failure of electrical and electronic systems

The decision to protect a structure or a service against lightning, as well as the selection of
protective measures, shall be performed according to IEC 62305-1; 2010. The following
procedure shall be applied:

 identification of the structure to be protected and its characteristics;

 identification of all types of loss in the structure and the relevant corresponding risk R
(R1 to R4);

 evaluation of risk R for each type of loss R1 to R4

34 Lightning protection

 evaluation of the need for protection comparing the risks R1,R2 and R3 with the
tolerable risk RT (IEC 62305-2;2010);

 evaluation of cost effectiveness of protection by comparing the costs of total loss

with and without protective measures. In this case, the assessments of
components of risk R4 shall be performed in order to evaluate such costs (IEC
62305-2; 2010)

4.3 Protection level and requirements for SPDs

Four lightning protection levels (I to IV) are introduced in the standard IEC 62305-1;
2010. For each LPL, a set of maximum and minimum lightning current parameters is
fixed.

First positive impulse LPL

Current parameters Symbol Unit I II III IV
Peak current I kA 200 150 100
Impulse charge Qshort C 100 75 50
Specific energy W/R MJ/Ω 10 5.6 2.5
Time parameters T1/T2 s/μs 10 / 350
First negative impulse* LPL
Current parameters Symbol Unit I II III
Peak current I kA 100 75 50
Average steepness di/dt kA/μs 100 75 50
Time parameters T1/T2 s/μs 1 / 200
Subsequent impulse LPL
Current parameters Symbol Unit I II III IV
Peak current I kA 50 37.5 25
Average steepness di/dt kA/μs 100 150 100
Time parameters T1/T2 s/μs 0.25 / 100
Long stroke LPL
Current parameters Symbol Unit I II III IV
Long stroke charge Qlong C 200 150 100
Time parameter Tlong s 0.5
Flash LPL
Current parameters Symbol Unit I II III IV
Flash charge Qflash C 300 225 150
*) The use of this current shape concerns only calculations and not testing.

Table 3: Maximum lightning current parameters (IEC 62305-1; 2010)

 Surge Protection Handbook 35

Minimum lightning current values are also defined in IEC 62305-1; 2010.

Here is the example how to choose the Iimp of the SPD according to the protection
levels. The lightning current is divided in accordance with the principle 50% to ground
and 50% to installation, provided that:

 calculation shows that lightning protection level I (which is the most exacting level)
with the maximum lightning current is needed

 no other building is in that area

The maximum lightning current of 200 kA (from the above table) is then divided into
the current of 100 kA, which flows to the ground, and into the current of 100 kA,
which flows to installation (across main bus bar and SPD) and from there to the other
distant buildings and a transformer. According to the type of the power supply
network, there are the minimum values of the Iimp the SPD should withstand:

 three phase TT, TNS, IT (with neutral) systems: 100 kA/4 wires = 25 kA/wire
 three phase TNC, IT (without neutral) systems: 100 kA/3 wires = 35 kA/wire
 single phase TT, TNC system: 100 kA/2 wire = 50 kA/wire

According to Table 3, the minimum lightning strike current is 100 kA. Hence the
minimum value of the lightning current the SPD conduct is 12,5 kA. This can be seen
in the following Figure 27.

Current sharing:
50% - LPS
50% - Power supply lines

100 kA / 2 = 100 kA / 2 = 12.5 kA

n 4
n= number of conductors
Iimp /pole = 12.5 kA

Figure 27: Distribution of lightning strike current

36 Lightning protection

4.4 Lightning protection systems LPS

The characteristics of an LPS are determined by the characteristics of the structure to
be protected and the considered lightning protection level.

LPL Class of LPS

I I

II II

III III

IV IV

Table 4: Relation between lightning protection levels (LPL) and class of LPS
(IEC 62305-3; 2010)

Each class of LPS is characterized by the following (IEC 62305-3;2010):

a) Data dependent upon the class of LPS:

- lightning parameters (see tables 3 and 4 in IEC 62305-1; 2010);
- rolling sphere radius, mesh size and protection angle (see 5.2.2)
- typical preferred distances between down conductors (see 5.3.3)
- separation distance against dangerous sparking (see 6.3)
- minimum length of earth electrodes (see 5.4.2)

b) Factors not dependent upon the class of LPS:

- lightning equipotential bonding (see 6.2)
- minimum thickness of metal sheets or metal pipes in air-terminations systems
(see 5.2.5)
- LPS materials and conditions of use (see 5.5.1)
- material, configuration and minimum dimensions for air-terminations, down-
conductors and earth-terminations (see 5.6)
- minimum dimensions of connecting conductors (see 6.2.2)

Performance of each class of LPS is given in Annex B of IEC 62305-2; 2010.

The class of required LPS shall be selected on the basis of the risk assessment (IEC
62305-2; 2010).

Air-termination components installed on a structure shall be located at corners,

exposed points and edges (especially on the upper level of any facade) in accordance
with one or more of the following methods. According to the IEC 62305-3, acceptable
methods to be used in determining the position of the air-termination system include:
 Surge Protection Handbook 37

 the protection angle method

 the rolling sphere method
 the mesh method

The rolling sphere method is suitable in all cases. Table 5 shows maximum values of
rolling sphere radius, mesh size and protection angle corresponding to the class of
LPS.

Protection method
Class of LPS Rolling sphere radius Mesh size Protection angle
r W
(m) (m)
I 20 5x5 See figure 29

II 30 10 x 10

III 45 15 x 15

IV 60 20 x 20

Table 5: Maximum values of rolling sphere radius, mesh size and protection angle
corresponding to the class of LPS (IEC 62305 - 3, 2010)

Figure 28 shows the mesh method, where conductors are placed on the concrete
insulation bricks and connected with flexible wires to enable extension of the system
due to temperatures, wind, etc.

Figure 28: Mesh method

The protection angle method is suitable for simple-shaped buildings, but it is subject
to limits of air-termination height (max. height is the radius of rolling sphere)
indicated in Figure 29.
38 Lightning protection

Note 1 Not apllicable beyond the values marked with .. Only rolling sphere and mesh methods apply in
these cases.
Note 2 h is the height of air-termination above the reference plane of the area to be protected.
Note 3 The angle will not change for values of h below 2m.

Figure 29: Air-termination height (IEC 62305-3, 2010)

In Figure 30 the protection angle method of the chimney is shown.

Figure 30: Chimney lightning protection with Franklin rod

The mesh method is a suitable form of protection where plain surfaces are to be
protected.

The following Figures (31 to 34) show the principle of rolling sphere method in
combination with the protection angle and mesh method. Rolling sphere method is
based on the rolling the sphere around and over the building(s). Where the sphere
touches the building, it is necessary to place the lightning interception system and
down conductors.
 Surge Protection Handbook 39

The first example shows two small buildings where higher building has the mash and
Franklin rod as a lightning interception system. The rod protects the objects on the
roof which are inside the angle α2 (shaded area) and the complete smaller building
which is “covered under” the angle α1.

Loop dimension
Air temination system
Protective angle
Lightning strike
h2

1 2
h1

dimensions
Radius (R)
LPS type

Loop
I 20 m 5 x 5 m
II 30 m 10 x 10 m
III 45 m 15 x 15 m
Earth
Down conductor termination IV 60 m 20 x 20 m
system system

Figure 31: Lightning protection I

In Figure 32 we see that one of the buildings is much higher and the air terminal
does not protect the lower building any more (rolling sphere can touch it), the
lightning interception system is thus placed also on the lower structure.

Loop dimension
Protective angle

Air temination
system
h2

Lightning
strike
h1

dimensions
Radius (R)
LPS type

Loop

I 20 m 5 x 5 m
II 30 m 10 x 10 m
III 45 m 15 x 15 m
Down conductor IV 60 m 20 x 20 m
Earth termination
system system

Figure 32: Lightning protection II

40 Lightning protection

On structures taller than 60 m, flashes to the side may occur especially to points,
corners and edges of surfaces. In general, the risk due to these flashes is low
because only a few percent of all flashes to tall structures will hit the side and,
moreover, their parameters are significantly lower than those of flashes to the top of
structures. However, electrical and electronic equipment on walls outside structures
may be destroyed even by lightning flashes with low peak current values.

An air termination system shall be installed to protect the upper part of tall structures
- typically the topmost 20% of the height of the structure - with the equipment
installed on it.

The rules for positioning air-termination system on roofs shall also apply to those
upper parts of structures.

Additionally, structures taller than 120m should have protected all parts which may
be endangered (above 120 meters).

Figure 33: Rolling sphere method (IEC 62305 3; 2010)

According to the LPS and protective measures against LEMP, the protection zones are
defined.
 Surge Protection Handbook 41

LPZ 0A
S1

Air temination
system
Structure
S3 (shield of LPZ 1)
LPZ 0B
Incoming MB
utilities
Down conductor
ds system
LPZ 1
Room
R (shield of LPZ 2) R

S4 ds S2
MB
SPD LPZ 2 SPD
1/2 SB 1/2
LPZ 0B LPZ 0B

MB
SPD
Earth termination system 0A/1

Figure 34: Lightning protection (IEC 62305-1; 2010)

In Figure 34 we see the building with the lightning protection system on top, down
conductors, grounding system, installed surge protection and Faraday cages. There
are different points of lightning strikes:
S1 - flash to the structure (air termination system)
S2 - flash near the structure
S3 - flash to a line connected to the structure
S4 - flash near a line connected to the structure

Letter R in the red areas represents a radius of rolling sphere, which is rotated
around and above the building. Everything it touches (building, service, objects on the
building, ground, etc.) is considered to be in protection zone 0A. This is the zone
where a direct lightning flash is possible and a full lightning current and magnetic
field are present. In the case of S3, the incoming cable is protected at the entering
point into the building with the SPD capable surviving a direct lightning strike (SPD
0A/1). Strike S2 can influence the underground cable; that is why this cable is
protected at the entrance into the building with the same type of the SPD (SPD 0A/1).

Where direct lightning strike is not possible, but partial lightning or induced current
and full magnetic field are possible, there exists zone 0B. Strike S1 hits the air
42 Lightning protection

terminal, but it is unable to hit the area between these two rods (zone 0B); the SPDs
for indirect strike can be used there (SPD 0B/1). These 2 zones are also seen on the
left and right side of the structure below the rolling spheres. In the case of S2, we use
SPDs for direct lightning strike even though there is a 0B/1 zone. The reason for this
is that S2 strike can hit the underground cable away from the building and the
lightning current can flow through the cable into the building.

Inside the building we have zone 1 where no direct flash is possible, limited lightning
or induced currents are present and magnetic filed is damped. Further on, we have
zone 2 or even more, which have in common: no direct flash, only induced current,
further damped magnetic field. Between zones 1/2, the appropriate SPDs for indirect
strikes are placed.

Protective volumes inside LPZ 1 and LPZ 2 must respect safety distances ds (Figure
34) against too high magnetic field (e.g. the equipment is placed in the room away
from the Faraday cage at least for the distance ds) .

The function of the internal LPS is to prevent dangerous sparking within the structure
and it is thus important to use either equipotential bonding or a separation distance
S (and hence electrical isolation) between the LPS components and other electrically
conducting elements internal to the structure.

4.5 Lightning effects

There exist different lightning effects, which can have catastrophic consequences, if
not properly addressed:

 thermal:

o fire, if there is no proper lightning protection

o heating of lightning interception system and down conductors

 mechanical:

o damages on the structures, services, devices, etc. if there is no proper lightning

and surge protection system

o bending of the lightning protection elements (interception system, down

conductors, etc.)

 electromagnetic:

o electrodynamic force (cables out of ducts, walls, etc.), induced voltages

(insulation breaks between cables, etc.)
 Surge Protection Handbook 43

 electrical:

o sparking between metal parts, if there is no connection or separation distance,

rise of grounding potential and a danger of step and touch voltage (lacking
potential equalisation between all metal parts, incorrectly designed and
performed grounding systems).

Example:
Melting of imax = 100kA; RG = 5Ω
material Heating of
coductor Uo = imax . RG = 100.5 = 500kV
s
3 50μ
10/ Interception system
Dangerous F
sparking Dynamic
forces Us step voltage
F VFG foundation grounding
u
1.2/50μs VGR grounding ring
Induced Down conductor
voltage Testing clamp
Step
Contact voltage
voltage Power supply cable

Earth Grounding
RG ring Conductor
termination
system Grounding
conductor 1m
V [V]
VFG
Us 0 Ut1 Ut2
VGR
Uo
VFG VFG +VGR
Us
0
l [m]
Figure 35: Lightning effects

The key solution to avoid step and touch voltage is to build a proper grounding system
and to connect all metal parts together, first to local bus bars, then to the main bus
bar. In some cases, the connection is not done directly but with assistance of special
elements - for example, cathode protected oil pipe connected to the bus bar with gas
discharge tubes or spark gaps to prevent stray current flow.
44 Lightning protection

Utility

External lightning protection system

Gas

Cathode
protected
pipe

Foundation grounding

Figure 36: Principle of potential equalization (Blitzshutz, Montage-handbuch, VDB)

Figure 37: Grounding bus bar

 Surge Protection Handbook 45

4.6 Grounding
Grounding is needed to dissipate the energy of the lightning strike, to limit the noise,
to reduce electrostatic charge, as well as to ensure personal safety, fuse operation in
earth short circuits and device protection, etc.

The main goal of a grounding system for the needs of a lightning protection is energy
dissipation of the lightning strike, as fast as possible. Consequently, the occurrence
of dangerous voltages has to be prevented. When dealing with the dispersion of the
lightning current (high frequency behaviour) into the ground, whilst minimizing any
potentially dangerous overvoltages, the shapes and dimensions of the earth
termination system are the important criteria.

All different grounding systems should be directly connected together or through the
spark gap and gas discharge tube into a common grounding system.

Naturally, the lower grounding resistance, the more favourable conditions. In general,
a low earthing resistance, if possible lower than 10 Ω when measured at low
frequency (IEC 62305-3; 2010), is recommended to avoid high voltage drop values
on the grounding system. Figure 38 shows the conditions at the SPD in the moment
of a lightning strike.

From the viewpoint of lightning protection, a single integrated structure earth-

termination system is preferable and suitable for all purposes (lightning protection,
power systems and telecommunication systems).

Lightning strike 2m 2.5 kV

10 kA

Surge
arrester 1.2 kV 6.2 kV

2m 2.5 kV
Earthing
Equipotential bonding
10 Ω

An example of incorrect mounting of surge arrester

Figure 38: Conditions at the SPD

Example: an inductance of a cable is cca 1 μH/m, a lightning strike 10,000 A, a

grounding resistance 10 Ω.
46 Lightning protection

U device = L di/dt + Up + iRe = 4 x 10,000 A/8 us + 1,2 kV + 10,000 A x 10 Ω =

5,000 + 1,200 V + 100,000 = 6,200 + 100,000 = 106,200 V

If the grounding resistance is 1 Ω, the device feels only 10,620 V.

The requirements for the SPD grounding resistance are regulated referring to
different countries. In Slovenia, the value is 5 Ω.

The example of proper grounding solution and potential equalization is seen on

Figure 39.

F Foundation grounding
J Iron frame joint
R Grounding bus bar conductor
Y Grounding fix point
T Transformer
C Cable tray
P Metal pipes
M Motor
L Data lines
B Control box
S Switchboard
X Supporting small column for double floor
system
D Control desk
G Grounding bus bar
A Down conductor
R Grounding rings for potential equalization
N Connection to the neighbouring grounding
systems

Figure 39: Proper grounding solution and potential equalization ( Blitzshutz, Montage-
handbuch, VBD)

Transformer, cable trays, metal pipes, motor, data line screen, control box,
switchboard, double floor system supporting column, control desk are all connected
to the grounding bus bar conductor, which is fastened on the grounding fix point to
the foundation grounding. Iron frame joints are attached to the foundation grounding
as well. Grounding bus bars are fixed to the foundation grounding and to the
grounding rings for potential equalization. Down conductors are connected to the
grounding bus bars. This complete system is connected to the grounding system of
neighbouring buildings.
 Surge Protection Handbook 47

5. Surge Protective Devices

The main task of surge protective device (SPD) in low-voltage power supply lines is
suppression of the overvoltage transients travelling along lines to the sensitive
electronic devices connected to the line terminals. Overvoltage impulse appears
between phase conductors and the earth or between various phase conductors. In
both cases, there is a risk of dielectric breakdown which can lead to the destruction
of the equipment. In order to avoid damage of the equipment, surge protective
devices must be utilized. Equipment vulnerability depends on the sensitivity of the
used electronic components determining the level of overvoltage protection needed
for installation. Surge protective devices consist of basic electrical elements, such as
resistors, inductivities, capacitors and overvoltage protection elements as crucial
elements of device. Characteristics of basic electrical components are well known
and their descriptions can be found in any textbook about basic electrical circuits.
The overvoltage protection elements are closely related to overvoltage protective
devices since their characteristics directly determine the characteristic of an
overvoltage protective device. A surge protective device contains at least one
nonlinear element; usually, surge protective devices available on the market are
mainly composed of two or more nonlinear components. Additionally, they may
include other components, such as fuses, disconnections, indicators, inductors,
capacitors and other components. In order to assure easier design and installation of
surge protective systems, SPDs are classified into groups, in accordance with general
and electrical parameters in common. After introductory explanation of surge
protection principles and nonlinear elements used in LV power supply systems, the
classification of SPDs and their electrical characteristics is presented.
48 Surge protective devices

5.1 Surge protection elements

Electric, electronic, communication and information devices are expected to operate
continuously. This requirement will be fulfilled using two possible approaches. First
possible solution is isolation of the protected device from the power supply line during
overvoltage transient (Figure 40), and second possibility is redirection of the
overvoltage impulse in front of the device through small shunt impedance (Figure 41).

Figure 40: Installation of overvoltage protection element in series with line

Figure 41: Installation of overvoltage protection element in parallel with line protected
equipment

These two solutions require the usage of elements with different electrical
characteristics under normal operation and during overvoltage impulse. In the first
case, the protective component is installed in series with the power supply line and
must have the as small impedance in normal operation and as large impedance
during an overvoltage impulse (thermal or automatic fuses) as possible. These
elements can be used for over-current protection but their response time represents
main limiting factor for the overvoltage protection. This method of overvoltage
protection is equivalent to equipment unplug from the all incoming lines during an
expected storm or announced switch manipulations in the power grid.

In the second case, the protective component is installed in parallel with the protected
equipment and must have large impedance in normal operation and small impedance
during overvoltage impulse, providing that overvoltage impulse can be conducted to
the earth. The second solution is primarily used in surge protection because of
existence of appropriate elements assuring adequate protection.
 Surge Protection Handbook 49

5.1.1 Classification of overvoltage protection elements

Following general classification, overvoltage protection elements from the second

group can be divided into:

 voltage switching elements, and

 voltage limiting elements.

Voltage switching elements operate by switching from high to low resistance state at
a certain threshold voltage (breakdown voltage) and behave like a short circuit.
Breakdown voltage must be above the maximum continuous operating voltage of the
system. Spark gap, gas discharge tube (GDT) and PNPN structures (thyristors,
breakover diodes, triacs) operate in accordance with this principle. Voltage-current
characteristics of some ideal element and GDT are presented in Figure 42.

Figure 42: V-I characteristics of voltage switching elements

Figure 43: V-I characteristics of some voltage limiting elements

Elements in the second subgroup limit a transient overvoltage impulse to a

predefined voltage level. This voltage must be chosen to be just above maximum
continuous operating voltage of the LV system. Voltage-current characteristics of the
ideal element, transient suppression diode and metal oxide varistor (MOV) are
presented in Figure 43.
50 Surge protective devices

5.1.2 Overvoltage protection elements - Basic characteristics

The ideal characteristics of the surge protection elements described above cannot be
achieved with commercially available components. The real characteristics of a
particular component play very important role in the design of overvoltage protectors.
Such elements are mainly described by their nonlinear terminal voltage-current
characteristics. Basic overvoltage protective components are presented using
classification introduced in the previous section. Surge protective devices used in LV
power supply systems are mainly based on elements with high energy withstand
capability. Used material of the element determines its energy withstand capability.
The elements with high energy capability are spark gap, GDT, and MOV. A description
of overvoltage protection elements used in LV power supply systems is limited, in this
section, to the previously mentioned elements. Such elements have relatively slow
response. However, slow response can be compensated by semiconductive
protection elements. The low-power components based on semiconductive materials,
such as diodes, transistors and thyristors, which have low energy withstand capability
but very fast response. They must be capable of carrying the surge energy until the
moment at which the element in first stage responds, which represents the main
reason for the utilization of such components. The low-power components are
principally installed in the last stage of overvoltage protective system (Figure 44).

Component High energy Low No follow-on

High current Let-through Current
voltage

Air Gaps &

Gas arrester

Metal Oxide
Varistor

Silicon
Avalange Diodes

Table 6: SPD elements characteristics

 Surge Protection Handbook 51

Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3

VFC
(Final
clamping
voltage)

230VAC
typical 50V
typical

GDT (gas discharge tube) MOV (metal oxide varistor) Tz (tranzorb)

SLOW 1µs Speed of operation FAST 1ps

(substantial overshoot) (very little overshoot)

HIGH kA Energy handling capability LOW kA

Figure 44: Energy and speed characteristics

U [kV] Ures [V] Ures [V] Ures [V]

10 600 600 600

8 400 400 400

400 400 400

6
300 300 300
4
200 200 200
2
100 100 100
Surge voltage wave
0 0 0 0
0 20 40 80 0 1μs 2μs 0 1μs 2μs 0 1μs 2μs

UO = 24V
Class I Class II Class III

Figure 45: The sequence of the individual components results in an increasing response
sensitivity towards the output
52 Surge protective devices

Interference voltage with a rise of 1 kV/µsV and a peak value of 10 kV at input of first
stage is limited by a MOV to approx. 400 V. Second stage, decupled from the first by
means of inductance, suppresses this value to approx. 100 V. This voltage pulse is
then reduced to approx. 35 V (in a 24 V network voltage Uo) by the suppression diode
(Figure 45). Therefore, the downstream electronics need only be able to cope with a
voltage pulse of approx. 1.5 x Uo.

5.1.2.1 Voltage switching components

Spark gap

A spark gap was historically the first element used in the overvoltage protective
circuits. This component consists of two electrodes with air gap between them. The
distance between the electrodes defines the breakdown voltage. When the voltage
between the electrodes exceeds the breakdown voltage of the air, the “conduction
path” (ionized air) between electrodes is established and the current flows through
the space between the electrodes. The current initiates intensive thermal ionization,
the spark gap resistance drops and a current increases very rapidly. The major
problem recognized in the spark gap application is electrical arc extinguishing in the
power supply circuits after the surge current disappears.

Gas discharge tube

GDT usually consist of two or three electrodes in a glass or ceramic, inert gas (neon
or argon) filled package (Figure 46). The electrodes are opposed each other across a
short distance. When the three electrodes are used, the middle electrode lies
between the other two electrodes located at the ends of the tube. The middle
electrode has a small hole allowing conduction between the other two end
electrodes. Commercially available GDTs are enclosed in ceramic tubes whose
terminals are metal electrodes.

U [kV] U [kV]
1.0 1.0

0.5 0.5

1 t [μs] 1 t [μs]

Figure 46: Voltage rise shape of 1 kV/µsV without voltage switching component and pulse
response voltage switching component (a peak value of 1 kV is limited to approx.
600-700 V)
 Surge Protection Handbook 53

A typical V-I curve for GDT is shown in Figure 42. The problem connected with GDTs is
the presence of the electrical arc and follow-up current in the power supply network
(power-frequency current continuous to flow after surge current disappears). The
advantages are found in the application of MOV in the series with GDT.

Figure 47: Example of self-extinguishing spark gap

5.1.2.2 Voltage limiting component

Metal-oxide varistor

At very low voltages, MOV has the ability to indicate that conduction is blocked. When
higher voltage is applied at MOV's terminals, MOV resistance is reduces to a very
small value (Figure 50). MOV is thus classified as a strongly nonlinear resistor. The
electrical properties described in this section are defined by physical dimensions
(thickness, area and volume) of the varistor. Static symmetrical voltage-current curve
(Figure 48) can be modelled in three regions. In the first region, known as leakage
region, at low current values, V-I curve is approximately linear. A varistor behaves as
an open circuit having high resistance in the order of 109 Ω. The current in this region
depends on the temperature - this is especially expressed at low voltages. A leakage
current becomes noticeable when temperature increases. The capacitance in this
region has approximately constant value over a wide range of voltage and frequency.
The capacitance decreases when the voltage approaches the nominal voltage of a
varistor. The capacity of varistors available on the market is usually a few nanofarads
and depends on the diameter and thickness of the discs. As the voltage increases,
varistor becomes conductive. Temperature has influence on the nominal voltage of
the varistor. At very high current values, the current through varistor tends towards a
linear or ohmic law (upturn region). In this region, the temperature has no significant
influence on the V-I curve. The main advantage of varistors is their energy/cost ratio.
For that reason, the varistor has become the essential component in designing surge
protective devices.
54 Surge protective devices

LEAKAGE UPTURN
REGION NORMAL OPERATION REGION
Ures [V]

U2

U1
UN

1 mA In Imax I [A]

10-5 10-3 10-2 10-1 0 100 101 102 103 104 105 106

Figure 48: Typical V-I characteristics of metal-oxide varistor, and three regions of varistor
operation

Figure 49: Metal-oxide varistor blocks

i [kA] u [V]

t [μs] t [μs]

Figure 50: The response of Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV) on current shape 8/20 µs
 Surge Protection Handbook 55

Transient-voltage-suppression (TVS) diode

A transient-voltage-suppression diode (Figure 51) can respond to over-voltages faster

than other common over-voltage protection components such as varistors or gas
discharge tubes. The actual clamping occurs in roughly one picosecond, but in a
practical circuit the inductance of the wires leading to the device imposes a higher
limit. This makes transient-voltage-suppression diodes useful for protection against
very fast and often damaging voltage transients. These fast over-voltage transients are
present on all distribution networks and can be caused by either internal or external
events, such as lightning or motor arcing.

i [kA] u [V]

t [μs] t [μs]

Figure 51: The response of suppressor diode on current shape 8/20 µs

5.2 Characteristics of surge protective devices

In the process of SPD selection it is important that the chosen device belongs to the
required energy withstand capability class and fulfils certain electrical parameters.
SPD classification is completed through the definition of general characteristics of a
device and required conditions for its installation. On the other side, electrical
parameters describe attributes of the SPD necessary for its installation in a given
system and its response to different surges appearing in the system.

5.2.1 Classification of SPDs

Design topology: According to this criterion SPDs are classified as: voltage-switching
component, voltage-limiting component and serial or parallel
combination of both.
Number of ports: One-port SPD, two-port SPD.
Class: Surge protection according to IEC standards is classified into three
classes (Figure 52):
56 Surge protective devices

Dielectric withstand levels (1.2/50μs), EN 50178:1997

Overvoltage
category IV III II I
Overvoltage
withstand 6kV 4kV 2.5kV 1.5kV

Lighting LPZ 0 LPZ 1 LPZ 2 LPZ 3, 4, ... N

Protection Zones
Min. required 4kV 2.5kV 1.5kV
protection level Up

Main distribution board Sub-distribution board

Protected
L1 device
L2
kWh
L3
N
PE

Classification
of SPD Class I Class II Class III

Lightning arresters Surge arresters

Figure 52: Surge protection according to IEC standards

Class I: The task of this stage is protection against direct and indirect lightning
currents and potential compensation of the input point into a structure. The
test pulse 10/350 μs (Figure 53) is used for tests of the protectors in this
class.

Class II: SPDs in this class are intended for protection against indirect effects of
lightning and reduction of remaining voltages from class I. The test pulse
8/20 μs (Figure 54) is used for tests of the protectors in class II.

Class III: Class III is positioned between the sub-distribution panel and the end
consumer or within the power socket. Some of the more sensitive
consumers have their own surge protection installed inside the device
casing. The task of class III is protection against switching overvoltages and
reduction of remaining voltages from class I and II. The test pulses 1.2/50
μs (Figure 55) and 8/20 μs are used in test procedures.
 Surge Protection Handbook 57

i [p.u.]

1.0

0.5

0
200 400 600 800 1000 t [μs]
350 μs

i [p.u.]

1.0
90 %

0.5

10 %

0
5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 t [μs]
10 μs

Figure 53: Standard current lighting surge waveform 10/350 μs

i [p.u.]

1.0
0.9

0.5

0.1
0
Tr = 8 μs t [μs]

Tf = 20 μs

Figure 54: Standard current surge waveform 8/20 μs

58 Surge protective devices

u [p.u.]

1.0

Front Time = 1.2 μs

0.5
Duratio = 50 μs

0
20 40 60 80 100 t [μs]

Figure 55: Standard voltage lighting surge waveform 1.2/50 μs

Induced surge current

I [kA]

Direct surge current

t [μs]

Figure 56: Correlation between current surge waveforms 8/20 and 10/350

Q [As]
32
Q for 8/20
28
Q for 10/350
24

20

16

12

08

04

00
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65
-04
Imax, Iimp [kA]

Figure 57: Correlation of charge Q between Imax (8/20) and Iimp (10/350)
 Surge Protection Handbook 59

Location: indoors and outdoors;

Accessibility: accessible, inaccessible;

Mounting method: permanent or portable;

Disconnector: location (external, internal, both external and internal, none),

function (thermal, leakage current, overcurrent - installation of
overcurrent device is realized in order to avoid overheating and
destruction of SPD when SPD is unable to interrupt the power
frequency short-circuit current);

5.2.2 Electrical parameters of SPD

Maximum continuous operating voltage UC

UC represents the value of maximum RMS or DC voltage that may be applied

continuously between the terminals of SPD.

Temporary overvoltage UTOV

UTOV represents the value of power-frequency overvoltage of relatively long duration

occurring on the network at a given location. It is usually associated with switching
operations or faults, and/or nonlinearities. More detailed description of UTOV is found
in section 2.2.

Nominal discharge current In (only for classes I and II)

Maximum value the current attains through the SPD when a current waveshape of
8/20 μs is applied through the SPD. This parameter is used for the classification of
the SPD for the class II test and also for preconditioning of the SPD for the class I and
II tests (Figure 54).

Impulse current Iimp for class I tests

It is used for classification of the SPD for the class I test and represents current peak
value (Ipeak) and charge (Q) tested according to the test sequence of the operating
duty test. This current is associated with longer waveshapes (10/350 μs) presented
in Figure 53. Correlation between current surge waveforms 10/350 and 8/20 is
shown in Figures 56 and 57.

Nominal discharge current Imax for class II tests

This current value is used in operating duty test for the class II test. It is related to the
maximum value of discharge current that can very rarely occur at the location of the
SPD. Imax is associated with the class II tests.
60 Surge protective devices

Combination wave for class III tests

A wave characterized by defined voltage amplitude (Uoc) and waveshape under open-
circuit condition and a defined current amplitude (Icw) and waveshape under short-
circuit conditions (Figure 55).

Up voltage protection level

This parameter characterizes the performance of the SPD in limiting voltage across
its terminals after surge occure. The voltage protection level is given by the
manufacturer and may not be exceeded by:

- the neasured limiting voltage, determined for front-of-wave sparkover (if applicable
and the measured limiting voltage, determined from the residual voltage
measurements at amplitudes corresponding to In and/or Iimp respectively for test
classes II and/or I;

- the measured limiting voltage at Uoc determined for the combination wave for test
class III.

The value of this voltage is equal to or greater than the highest value of the
measured limiting voltage. It is an extremely important parameter in the procedure of
selecting SPDs; lower value of Up level provides better protection.

Degradation

Degradation represents the change of original performance parameters after SPD is

stressed with surge impulse.

Failure modes

These modes are used to define the compatibility of the SPD with other equipment,
with its application and the devices used in conjunction with the SPD. Failure mode
depends on the magnitude, number and waveshape of the surge current and voltage,
short-circuit capacity of the power system and value of the voltage applied to the SPD
at the time of failure. There are two failure modes of an SPD: short circuit and open
circuit. The power supply of the protected device will not be interrupted after SPD
operation, if disconnector is applied in the shunt branch with SPD (Figure 58).
 Surge Protection Handbook 61

Short circuit (two state mode) Open circuit

LINE LINE

DISCONNECTOR DISCONNECTOR

FUSE
SPD SPD

Figures 58a, b: Metal-oxide SPD failure modes

Short-circuit withstand:

1. Maximum continuous load current (for two-port SPDs or one-port SPDs with
separate input and output terminals).

2. Voltage drop (for two-port SPDs or one-port SPDs with separate input and output
terminals).

5.3 How to select proper value of back-up fuse

Surge Arrester
Wave shape Wave shape Back-up Fuse ISKRA ZAŠČITE
8/20 μs 10/350 μs gL Products
(kA) (kA) (A)
13.0 3.0 50
21.7 5.0 63
43.3 10.0 125 PROTEC C
56.3 13.0 160 PROTEC B2S
65.0 15.0 200
86.6 20.0 225
108.3 25.0 250 PROTEC BS, PROBLOC BS
129.9 30.0 315
151.6 35.0 315 PROTEC BS
173.2 40.0 400
200 50.0 500 PROTEC BS

Table 7: Back-up fuse selection

62 Surge protective devices

A back-up fuse should be energy coordinated with maximum discharge current

declared for certain type of SPD. A back-up fuse is a part of electric installation to
avoid overheating and/or destruction in case SPD is unable to interrupt the power
short circuit current. Value of a back-up fuse should be provided by the SPD
manufacturer and cannot be changed by the user.

5.4 SPD selector

Procedure of SPD selection and installation in the LV power supply distribution system
inside a structure (domestic building, industrial building, cellular base stations, TV
broadcasting towers etc.) is conditioned by the system parameters of the LV power
supply system as well as, by the characteristics of appliances in the protected object.
Such characteristics determine parameters of the SPDs, their number and location
inside the protected structure. IEC 61643 standard defines a general procedure of
the installation of SPDs in the LV power distribution system. The procedure of the SPD
selection described here is in accordance with the standard and other IEC standards
in this field. General flowchart showing how to select and install SPD is illustrated in
Figure 59.

Figure 59: Flow diagram of the SPD selection

 Surge Protection Handbook 63

SPD selection is guided through the following steps:

5.4.1 The expected types and levels of overvoltage impulses and currents

The main risk to equipment failure connected to the power supply lines arises from
direct and indirect lightning flashes. The first step in selecting SPD is thus predicting
required types and levels of such overvoltage impulses and currents. The selected
SPDs have to withstand the predicted values of voltages and the resulting current
through them with a sufficiently high reliability.

SPDs are tested using standardized current waveforms (10/350 μs and 8/20 μs),
and voltage 1.2/50 μs waveform. Magnitudes of these overvoltage impulses depend
on the SPD class and typical model used for protection.

The power lines at the main distribution board are subject to partial direct lightning
discharges. At this point, the class I SPD must be installed. Class I SPDs are suitable
for current arrester pulses of 10/350 μs. Value of the current impulse at this point
depends on the object location, installation of external lightning protection system,
earthing resistance and existence of other objects in the vicinity.

There are three typical models used for determination of expected values of
overcurrent impulses at the input of the protected structure:

 Model of exposed structure (exposed home with external lightning protection,

cellular base stations, waterworks, RTV broadcasting transmitters, etc.) (Figure
60). Model 1 has to be used for objects with installed external lightning protection
systems.

 Model of two structures (earthing resistances are equal) closely together (Figure
61). The first object is equipped with external lightning protective system while the
second is not.

 Model of two or more structures (earthing resistances are different). In such case,
current sharing depends on the earthing resistance of a particular object.
64 Surge protective devices

Figure 60: Current sharing in the case of exposed structure and installed external lightning
protection system

Figure 61: Current sharing in the case of objects in the vicinity (earthing resistances are equal)
 Surge Protection Handbook 65

It is required to choose appropriate model for own application and define current per
pole Iimp/pole (for some systems also current between N and PE). For a three-phase
TT system current IN-PE = 4 Iimp/pole, and for a single-phase TT system IN-PE = 2
Iimp/pole are required. Required values are summarized in Table 8.

Protection modes Impulse current (kA)

(10/350 μs pulse)
Iimp/pole (L-N or N-PE) 25 kA
(12,5 kA/pole is min. requirement according to IEC 60364-5-53: 2012-03 (see Fig. 60)

For TT system Iimp/pole (N-PE) 100 kA

(50 kA at 3 phase system or 25 kA at 1 phase system in case of L-N= 25 kA/pole
is min. Requirement according to IEC 60364-5-53: 2012-03 (see Fig. 60)

Iin/pole (L-N or N-PE) 5 kA

(5 kA/pole is min. requirement according to IEC 60364-5-53: 2012-03

For TT system Iimp/pole (N-PE) 20 kA

(20 kA at 3 phase system or 10 kA at 1 phase system in case of L-N= 5 kA/pole
is min. Requirement according to IEC 60364-5-53: 2012-03

Table 8: Current values

5.4.2 Characteristics of LV power supply system

Parameters of the LV power distribution system required for the definition of this
stage are summarized in Table 9. Designer of the surge protective system should fill
the parameters of the LV power supply system in the table. The values represent
starting parameters in the process of the SPD selection.

System data Value or system parameter

Type of the system (earthing) TN-S
(TN-C, TN-S, TN-C-S, TT or IT) in most case in Europe
The nominal voltage of the system (230/400) 230/400 Vrms
and highest voltage of the system
The power frequency of the system and other high 50 Hz
frequency signals
Temporary overvoltages in the LV power system .
441 Vrms for all systems
L - N, see Table 1
The required protection voltage levels of the equipment < 4.0 kV
to be protected (this is defined through overvoltages
categories: I, II, III, and IV), see Fig. 52
Failure mode condition (definition of priority: power Open circuit,
supply continuity or protection), see Fig. 58 power supply continuity
Abnormal conditions (ambient conditions some Ex environment, temp.
special conditions in the system) extended range: -40oC to +70oC

Table 9: Parameters of the LV power distribution system

66 Surge protective devices

5.4.3 Determining dielectric withstand category of protected devices

Protected devices in the structure have different dielectric withstand categories. The
values of dielectric withstand are given by the manufacturer of a particular device.
Table 10 shows standardized values of dielectric withstand levels for different
categories and their installation locations in the object.

The minimum required protection level represents the starting value in the process of
designing overvoltage protection. The following calculation is based on this value. It
shows the sensitivity of protected appliances to overvoltage impulses. The dielectric
strength of the most sensitive device should be defined by Table 11.

Overvoltage category Dielectric withstand (kV) Installation location

IV 6.0 Utility terminal
III 4.0 Distribution panel
II 2.5 Power socket
I 1.5 Device

Table 10: Dielectric withstand levels

Dielectric withstand of device Ui (kV), see Fig. 52 2.5 kV

overvoltage category II

Table 11: Dielectric withstand of device Ui

5.4.4 Determining protection level at the installation point of SPD

In general, it is preferred to install the SPD at the entrance of the object in order to
avoid current sharing through conductors located inside the structure. This approach
will provide the protection of in-home power supply installations. If the SPD protection
level of the first stage is not acceptable or equipment is not within the protective
distance of the SPD installed at the entrance (main distribution board), the second
class of the SPD should be installed at sub-distribution board and power socket. The
voltage sensed by the device Uprot has to be less than dielectric strength:

Uprot ≤ Ui

The voltage UPROT is the sum of protection level of the SPD Up and inductive voltage
drop appearing on the conductors connecting SPD and protected device:

Uprot = Up+Uind= Up+Ldi/dt ≤ U i

 Surge Protection Handbook 67

From the last expression, protection level of the SPD (kV) is determined as:

Up = Uprot - Uind = Uprot - Ldi/dt

A distributed inductance of a typical conductor is approximately 1 μH/m, which at the

current rate of rise of 1 kA/μs contributes approximately with 1 kV per meter length.
Using the last expression, the required protection level of SPD at the entrance of the
structure is determined.

The SPD class I installed at the main distribution board is intended to protect
equipment classified for the installation in categories III and IV (Table 12).

Required protection level of SPD Up (kV), see Fig. 52 1.5 kV

overvoltage category II

Table 12: Required protection level of SPD Up

Installation of additional SPD depends on the actual protection level of the selected
device, protection level of the SPD class I and induced voltage Uind in the installation
conductor loop connection between SPD and protected appliances (Figure 62). The
value of protection level of the SPD at class I may be obtained from the catalogue,
while the distance between the SPD and protected appliance may be obtained from
the project documentation of the protected structure. If the condition

UPROT=Up+Uind ≤ Ui/2

is not achieved, installation of an additional SPD is necessary.

At the sub-distribution board SPD of class II should be installed. Such devices are
intended to protect against the effect of induced voltages. Installations of the class III
SPDs are based on the same procedure and the condition:

UPROT(after class II)=Up(class II)+Uind ≤ Ui/2

68 Surge protective devices

230/380V

Figure 62: Voltage induction in the electrical installation due to lightning current in the down
conductor

5.4.5 SPD selection

The previously described four steps define the necessary parameters for the SPD
selection. In this phase, obtained parameters are used for proper selection of SPDs.
The process of the SPD selection should be completed using the parameters in the
same order as applied through the four steps. Therefore, the first parameter for SPD
selection is impulse current per pole and optionally current between N and PE for the
TT system.

Other obtained parameters from Tables 9 and 10 determine other characteristics of

the SPD located at the main distribution board. The selection of the class II SPD is
based on the condition that nominal discharge current per pole In is greater than 5 kA
8/20 μs, while the current between N and PE in the TT case is greater than 10 kA
8/20 μs in the mono-phase system, and 20 kA 8/20 μs in the three-phase system.
In is used in the classification of SPDs to test class II.
 Surge Protection Handbook 69

5.4.6 Installation of SPDs and analysis of its effect on the protection provided by
SPDs

Installations of SPDs in different neutral-earthing systems are presented in Chapter

3.7. The class I SPDs should be installed in the main distribution board or other
entrance points into the structure. The class II SPDs are mainly installed in the sub-
distribution boards located at particular flats of the building. If necessary, the class III
may be added in the power socket.

In order to achieve optimal overvoltage protection, connecting conductors of SPD

should be as short as possible. Long lead length will reduce the protection efficiency
of SPD. Figure 63 shows preferred schemes of the SPD connection and maximum
lengths of conductors.

F F

a + b ≤ 0.5m b ≤ 0.5m

b b
EBB EBB

Figures 63a, b: Example of correct connection and maximum length of connected conductors.

It is better to use the scheme b, where the effect of inductance is considerably

reduced. The cross sectional area of the earthing conductor used to connect SPD
should not be less than 16 mm2 for the class I SPD and 6 mm2 for classes II and III.
70 Application

6. Applications
6.1 Households
SINGLE HOUSE

Based on the isokeraunic levels chart and lightning protection calculations, it was
found that an isolated object (without the surrounding buildings) sized 11 x 11 m is
located in the environment with a large annual flash density per km2 required degree
is Lightning Protection Level I. This suggests that it must be designed in accordance
with all the parameters applied to this level.

The entire lightning system is tested by rolling sphere method. Imaginary sphere rolls
up and over (and is supported by) lightning masts, shield wires, substation fences
and other grounded metallic objects that can provide lightning shielding. An
object/equipment is said to be protected from a direct stroke if it remains below the
curved surface of the sphere. For Lightning Protection Level I, sphere radius is 20
meters (Figure 31).

How to design appropriate lightning protection?

Safety network (5 x 5 meters) is established on the roof (Figure 31), with additional
air terminal mast for satellite antenna protection. Air terminal mast is protecting
satellite antenna under certain fixed angle method (isolated solution).

The antenna is thus located in Zone 0B and the rest of the roof in zone 0A. From the
side of the building, deployment of the zones 0A and 0B is also visible. Given the
dimensions of the building, four discharge paths exist.

All metal parts of the building are connected to the grounding bus bar, which is
associated with the basic grounding and earthing ring, preventing the danger of step
and touch voltages resulting from ground potential rise in the event of lightning. The
earth resistance of the building is less than 10 ohms, which corresponds to the
 Surge Protection Handbook 71

recommendations of IEC 62305 - 4. As the lightning current reaches up to 200 kA, it

spreads in accordance with the principle of 50-50% (Figure 60); 100 kA runs into the
ground and 100 kA over the grounding bus bar into the installation, according to the
recommended surge class I (3), strength Iimp = 25 kA (100 kA/4 wires in the TNS
system) and is installed in the distribution box of the house. In the sub-distribution
box (of the house) surge arrester of class II (4) is located. The area after sub-
distribution box LPZ 2 is defined.

Underground telecommunications cable is at the entrance of the building, protected

by a separator bar and relevant telecommunication protection (5) for each pair. From
there, telecommunications cable continues to the computer, which is secured by a
combined class III (7) protection for power and data xDSL transmission (LPZ 3). On
the mounted channel, where different users are connected, the built-in socket of
class III (9) protection is used. Coaxial cable, which enters the building from satellite
antenna through the satellite receiver, is protected at the entrance into the building
(8) and at the receiver (8) as well. TV is protected both as part of the antenna and
power supply with a combined class III (6) protection. Antenna part protection is
designed In=5kA, class C2 in accordance with EN 61643-21.

AERIAL LINES AND DISTRIBUTION BOARDS

The main distribution box is located in front of the building, i.e. in the 0A zone and
thus requiring arresters of the class I (2), the same as in the segment (3). As well low
aerial lines voltage are protected with a special silicone surge arresters resistant to
weathering (1), nearby the transition to an underground cable system. Mounting
frequency depends on the electrical distribution company´s policy, calculations, law,
finance, etc.
72 Application Surge Protection Handbook 73

R= 20m

1 T2

L1
L2 Air temination
N 8 200kA system
Mesh size 5 x 5m
L3
Down conductor
R= 20m system
SB 2
2 T1
RECEIVER
6 4 T2
CABLE DUCT

9 R= 20m
MB 8

7 SB 1 3 T1
TK
5
box

100kA 200kA

MB - Main distribution board

TN-C TN-C TN-C-S Earth termination SB1 - Sub-distribution board
R < 10Ω system SB2 - Sub-distribution board
100kA
TN-C-S

1 T2, Class II 2 3 T1, Class I 4 T2, Class II 5 C2 6 T3, Class III/ C2 7 T3, Class III/ C2 8 C2 9 T3, Class III
PROTEC AQS 40 SAFETEC B(R) 25 SAFETEC C(R) 40 LPA 08 K1 xDSL protection modules ZES 1M+5S ZE 200 xDSL CCP-F Series MPE - Mini
Uc = 275V (PROTEC B2S(R) 12.5) Uc = 275V Uc = 180V Uc = 250V Uc = 275V Uc = 180V Uc = 275V

Power

Power
In = 20kA Uc = 275V In = 20kA In = 5kA Uoc = 3.0kV In = 16A In = 10kA Uoc/Isc = 6kV/3kA
Imax = 40kA In = 25kA Imax = 40kA Imax = 10kA Up < 1.0 kV Uoc/Isc= 6kV/3kA Imax = 20kA Up < 0.8kV
Up < 1.4 kV Imax = 100kA (60kA) Up < 1.6 kV Up < 0.3V Up < 1.5kV Up < 0.7kV
IP ≥ 67 Iimp = 25kA (min. 12.5kA) TOV resistant LL/K strip + K1 earthing contact Uc = 50V

Data
Up < 1.3 kV (1.5kA) NMI-22-1 earthing mounting frame In = 5kA Uc = 175VDC

Data
TOV resistant Up < 0.7kV In = 2.5kA
Up < 0.3kV

Figure 64: Sample of surge protective device designed on single house

74

CONTENT - FIGURES

Figures 1a: Common form of overvoltage - TOV 3

Figures 1b, 1c: Various forms of overvoltage events 4

Figure 2: Statistical distribution of the amplitude discharge density 11

Figures 3a, 3b, 3c:Standard current lightning surge waveforms 12

Figure 4: Different couplings between two electrical systems 14

Figure 5: Induced voltage in the surroundings of the lightning down conductor 15

Figure 6: Switching overvoltage 16

Figure 7: Overvoltage due to capacitor switching 17

Figure 8: Electrostatic discharge pulse current 18

Figure 9: TN-C system (ER - earthing impedance, CI - conductor impedance) 22

Figure 10: TN-S system 23

Figure 11: TN-C-S system (with overcurrent protective device - OPCD) 23

Figure 12: TT system 24

Figure 13: IT system 25

Figure 14: Fuse interruption 27

Figure 15: No overcurrent protection 27

Figure 16: Touch voltage 28

Figure 17: RCD installation 28

Figure 18: TT system - connection 3+1 28

Figure 19: TT system - connection 4+0 28

Figure 20: Galvanic separation between N and PE conductor 29

Figure 21: TN-C SPD (3+0) 29

Figure 22: TN-S SPD (4+0) 29

Figure 23: TT SPD (3+1) 29

Figure 24: TT SPD (4+0) 29

Figure 25: IT SPD (3+0); note: Uc= 3Uref 30

Figure 26: Isokeraunic map 33

Figure 27: Distribution of lightning strike current 35

Figure 28: Mesh method (Blitzshutz, Montage-handbuch, VDB) 37

Figure 29: Air-termination height (IEC 62305-3, 2010) 38

 Surge Protection Handbook 75

Figure 30: Chimney lightning protection with Franklin rod (Blitzshutz, Montage-handbuch, VDB) 38

Figure 31: Lightning protection I 39

Figure 32: Lightning protection II 39

Figure 33: Rolling sphere method (IEC 62305 3; 2010) 40

Figure 34: Lightning protection (IEC 62305-1; 2010) 41

Figure 35: Lightning effects 43

Figure 36: Principle of potential equalization (Blitzshutz, Montage-handbuch, VDB) 44

Figure 37: Grounding bus bar (Blitzshutz, Montage-handbuch, VDB) 44

Figure 38: Conditions at the SPD 45

Figure 39: Proper grounding solution and potential equalization (Blitzshutz, Montage-handbuch, VDB) 46

Figure 40: Installation of overvoltage protective element in series with line 48

Figure 41: Installation of overvoltage protective element in parallel with line protected equipment 48

Figure 42: V-I characteristic of voltage switching elements 49

Figure 43: V-I characteristic of some voltage limiting elements 49

Figure 44: Energy and speed characteristics 51

Figure 45: The sequence of the individual components results in an increasing response sensitivity
towards the output 51

Figure 46: Voltage rise shape of 1kV/µsV without voltage switching component and pulse response
voltage switching component (a peak value of 1kV is limited to approx. 600-700 V) 52

Figure 47: Example of self-extinguishing spark gap 53

Figure 48: Typical V-I characteristics of metal-oxide varistor, and three regions of varistor operation 54

Figure 49: Metal-oxide varistor blocks 54

Figure 50: The response of Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV) on current shape 8/20 µs 54

Figure 51: The response of Suppressor diode on current shape 8/20 µs 55

Figure 52: Surge protection according to IEC standards 56

Figure 53: Standard current lighting surge waveform 10/350 μs 57

Figure 54: Standard current surge waveform 8/20 μs 57

Figure 55: Standard voltage lighting surge waveform 1.2/50 μs 58

Figure 56: Correlation between current surge waveform 8/20 and 10/350 58

Figure 57: Correlation of charge Q between Imax (8/20) and Iimp (10/350) 58

Figure 58a, 58b: Metal-oxide SPD failure modes 61

Figure 59: Flow diagram of the SPD selection 62

76

Figure 60: Current sharing in the case of exposed structure and installed external lightning protection
system 64

Figure 61: Current sharing in the case of objects in the vicinity (earthing resistances are equal) 64

Figure 62: Voltage induction in the electrical installation due to lightning current in the down conductor 68

Figure 63a, b: Example of correct connection and maximum length of connected conductors. 69

Figure 64: Sample of surge protection device design on single house 74

CONTENT - TABLES

Table 1: Temporary overvoltage for different types of neutral earthing, fault type and fault location
[adopted from IEC 61643-11 Ed 1] 26

Table 2: Risk components (IEC 62305-2; 2010) 32

Table 3: Maximum lightning current parameters (IEC 62305-1; 2010) 34

Table 4: Relation between lightning protection levels (LPL) and class of LPS (IEC 62305-3; 2010) 36

Table 5: Maximum values of rolling sphere radius, mesh size and protection angle corresponding
to the class of LPS (IEC 62305-3, 2010) 37

Table 6: SPD elements characteristics 50

Table 7: Back-up fuse selection 61

Table 8: Current values 65

Table 9: Parameters of the LV power distribution system 65

Table 10: Dielectric withstand levels 66

Table 11: Dielectric withstand of device Ui 66

Table 12: Required protection level of SPD Up 67

Why ISKRA ZAŠČITE?
COMPLETE SURGE PROTECTION PROMPT TECHNICAL AND SALES SUPPORT
SOLUTIONS
Lightning Technical trainings and consulting

Surge Fast response for technical questions

Consulting Favourable delivery times

Risk assessment After sales support

WIDE RANGE OF OWN DEVELOPED FLEXIBLE PRODUCTION

PRODUCTS
Low voltage Small and large quantities

Medium voltage Prompt launch of production new products

Computer networks High skilled staff

Data lines Fast response time for changes

Telecommunications Short preparation times

CUSTOM DESIGNED SOLUTIONS TRUSTWORTHY COMPANY

- Domestic (EU) producer of MOVs and Present 20 years with production located in Europe
own development of GDTs
100% functional control and traceability
- Own testing laboratory
- 20% of staff working in R&D ISO 9001 and in the process for ISO 14000
ISKRA ZAŠČITE d.o.o., Surge Voltage Protection Systems, Engineering and Cooperation
Stegne 35, 1521 Ljubljana, Slovenia, EU
P: 00386(1)5003 100; F: 00386(1)5003 236
E: [email protected];
www. iskrazascite.si
Published by: ISKRA ZAŠČITE, d.o.o. / July 2012 / Edition 1.0 /
Copyright: All right reserved