Advanced Performance Testing of a Lightning Current Arrester Based on Spark-Gap Technology

To ensure highest availability of a low-voltage power supply system (LV PSS) in case of surge and lightning current events, surge protective devices (SPDs) have to be used. SPDs can provide reliable protection against these disturbances without causing negative impacts on the operational condition of the system itself. In this regard, their performance and reliability have to be proved with qualification tests which cover the whole range of the operational conditions of the LV PSS with the installed SPDs. Investigations setting a focus on the impact of the applied surge-current impulse amplitude on the operational behavior of the system in combination with SPD are carried out. Additionally, the impact of the prospective short-circuit current of the LV PSS on the operational behavior of the SPD is under investigation. A further focus is set on the evaluation of the discharge capability of lightning current arresters. Thereby, the impact of the amplitude, the number of applied impulses and the temporal interval between the single impulses applied are in the scope of these investigations. These investigations are carried out by using a newly developed class I lightning current arrester. Finally, a comparison of the suitability of the test procedures for the qualification testing of lightning current arresters given by the present IEC 61643-11 standard compared to procedures with enhanced requirements took place.