Description

Raychem polymeric surge arrester is a protective device designed to safeguard electrical power systems (distribution lines, transformers, switchgear, substations) from lightning strikes and switching surges. They use high‑quality gapless metal‑oxide varistors (MOVs) enclosed in a polymer (silicone rubber or EVA) housing, combining excellent electrical performance with superior environmental durability.

Key Features

• Metal‑Oxide Varistor Core (ZnO): Provides fast nonlinear conduction to divert surge current.
• Polymeric Housing: Lightweight, hydrophobic silicone or EVA; resists tracking, erosion, moisture, and contamination.
• Safe Non‑Shattering Failure Mode: Unlike porcelain, polymeric housings do not explosively fail under extreme stress.
• IEC & International Standards: Designed and tested per IEC 60099‑4, IEC 61643, ANSI C62.11 (depending on class).
• Wide Voltage Range: Available in low voltage (LV), medium voltage (MV), and high voltage (HV) classes (up to 245 kV and beyond).
• Outdoor & Indoor Use: Suitable for overhead, underground, substations, and equipment protection.

 Typical Applications

• Power Distribution Networks – Protect lines, transformers, and service entries.
• Substations & Switchgear – Prevent damage from lightning and switching overvoltages.
• Industrial Electrical Systems – Safeguard motors, generators, and sensitive equipment.
• Transmission Lines – High voltage surge arresters used on towers and line end points.

Some Raychem Polymeric Surge Arrester Products are:

• Medium & High Voltage Arresters
• Raychem Surge Arresters Indoor/Outdoor Station Low Class – High‑class arrester for higher system voltage applications.
• Raychem Surge Arresters Indoor/Outdoor Station Medium Class – Medium voltage arrester suitable for MV protection (e.g., 96 kV).
• Raychem Surge Arresters Indoor Station Low Class 15 kV – Lower voltage arrester for 11–15 kV systems.

Other Variants with Bracket

• Raychem Surge Arresters with Bracket PCN Low Class 38.75 kV – For 33 kV networks.
• Raychem Surge Arresters with Bracket PCN High Class 15 kV – Higher class at similar system voltage.
• (Product features such as rated discharge current, system voltage, and mechanical class vary by model — check datasheets for exact specs.)

How does it Work?

• During normal voltage → arrester acts as an insulator.
• During surge (lightning/switching) → ZnO varistors conduct heavy current to ground.
• After surge → arrester returns to non-conducting state.
• This protects transformers, switchgear, cables, and other equipment.

Why Polymer over Porcelain?

Raychem polymeric surge arresters offer advantages over traditional porcelain units:

• Lighter weight and easier handling/installing.
• Hydrophobic surface reduces contamination tracking.
• Minimal risk of shattering under fault conditions.
• Better moisture ingress resistance and long service life.