Technical basics of lightning and surge protection

in energy applications

Technical basics of lightning and surge protection

Guide of lightning and surge protection

In building infrastructures, careful planning and precise implementation are crucial for the security and functionality of electrical systems. Compliance with standards and regulations is essential for planners, installers and operators. Lightning and surge protection systems protect against costly failures and are even mandatory in many areas.

On the following pages, you will find comprehensive information and valuable tips on how to protect your electrical system and equipment.

Overview

What are surge voltages?

Lightning
  • General information on lightning and surges
  • Damage due to surges
  • Surge protection concept

What are the components of surge protection?

Surge protection components
  • Components
  • Advantages and disadvantages
  • Combination circuits

What different types of arresters are there?

energy arrester
  • Arrester type I, II and III
  • Classification and test pulses

What lightning protection zones (LPZ) are there?

Lightning protection zones
  • External lightning protection
  • Internal lightning protection

What are lightning protection classes (LPL)?

Lightning protection classes
  • Definition and application of lightning protection classes
  • Example calculation

Which grid types are there?

Grid systems
  • Structure and application of the grid systems
  • Advantages and disadvantages
  • Mains voltages

What installation requirements must be observed?

Installation of lightning protection
  • Areas of application
  • Line connection and line lengths
  • Fuse protection for surge protection devices

How do you choose the correct surge protection?

lightning protection
  • Determination of the parameters
  • Useful information

Useful information

1 m

Range of coverage

Lightning strikes can cause damage within a radius of up to 2 km.

1 thou.

Damages

The GDV (German Insurance Association) estimates around 220,000 lightning and surge claims in 2024.

1 m €

Amount of loss

Insurers paid out around €350 million for 220,000 lightning and surge claims in Germany in 2024.

FAQ on lightning and surge protection

What are typical damages caused by lightning and surges?

What are typical damages caused by lightning and surges?

Typical damage includes sockets or cables popping out of the wall, charred or burned SMD components and, in the worst case, even open fires.

How can I protect myself against lightning and surges?

How can I protect myself against lightning and surges?

Complete protection can be achieved only if both power lines, data and signal lines are protected using a surge protection device (SPD). In addition, it is important to have a uniform reference potential.

Why do I need to use surge protection devices?

Why do I need to use surge protection devices?

Because the use of lightning and surge protection devices has been a standard requirement since 2016. This applies to all new buildings and to modifications or expansions of existing electrical installations.

Where should the lightning and surge protection be installed?

Where should the lightning and surge protection be installed?

An important part is the energy supply and distribution. This is the basis for the protection of all electrical and electronic components. In general, SPDs (surge protection devices) are installed where the lines and cables enter the switch cabinet - parallel to the power supply with the shortest possible cable route.

Who is authorised to install lightning and surge protection?

Who is authorised to install lightning and surge protection?

Lightning and surge protection may only be installed, put into operation and maintained by qualified electricians who are familiar with national and international laws, regulations and standards.

What is the purpose of a surge protection arrester?

What is the purpose of a surge protection arrester?

A surge protection arrester is a device that protects electrical power systems from damage caused by lightning and surge voltage. In normal operation, surge protection is a passive component and has very high impedance. The arrester only becomes conductive in the case of surge voltage, so that power from the surge pulse can flow to the ground.

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