Understanding the difference between Surge Arresters and Lightning Arresters is crucial for protecting electrical systems. Lightning strikes are frequent — according to the UK’s weather department, over 3 million lightning flashes occur every day worldwide, averaging about 44 strikes per second. Protecting buildings and electrical equipment from these events requires properly designed devices.

This article explains the differences, applications, and key points for Surge Arresters and Lightning Arresters.

Lightning Arrester

A Lightning Arrester is used to reduce and eliminate lightning risks. When lightning strikes, it releases a large amount of energy in a few seconds, which can damage buildings and electrical systems. Lightning Arresters protect by providing a low-resistance path to ground, safely diverting the charge.

Types of Lightning Arresters

• Conventional Lightning Arresters (Franklin Rods)
  Suitable for small buildings. Long metallic rods, often made of copper, are installed at the highest points. Requires multiple rods, additional down conductors, and complex earthing for larger structures.
• Early Streamer Emission (ESE) Lightning Arresters
  Designed to discharge lightning faster and cover larger areas. Works by emitting charged particles and storing energy from the ambient electromagnetic field. A single ESE arrester can protect a larger area compared to conventional rods.

Installation Recommendations

• Place at the highest point of the building.
• Connect to a low-resistance grounding system.
• Use multiple devices for larger areas to ensure full coverage.

Applications

Residential homes, commercial buildings, industrial facilities, and power substations.

Where are Surge Arrester

Surge Arresters protect internal electrical systems from overvoltages. They usually use Metal Oxide Varistors (MOVs), which vary resistance with voltage to absorb or divert surges.

Types of Overvoltage Surges

• Normal Power Frequency Overvoltage: Temporary spikes from faulty wiring, sudden power restoration, or overloads.
• Lightning Surge: Caused by nearby lightning strikes.
• Switching Surge: Generated from opening or closing high-voltage lines or switching inductive/capacitive loads.

Installation Locations

• Electrical substations at feeder entrances.
• Around power transformers to protect high-value equipment.
• Within pad-mounted transformers, domestic circuit breakers, and riser poles.

Note: Do not confuse Surge Arresters with Surge Protectors (SPDs), which are for low-voltage home appliances. SPDs also use MOVs but are designed to protect home wiring and appliances from voltage spikes.

Key Differences Between Surge Arresters and Lightning Arresters

Selection Guidelines

• Small Buildings & Residential Homes: Conventional Lightning Rods + basic Surge Arrester.
• Large Industrial Facilities: ESE Lightning Arresters + high-capacity Surge Arresters.
• High-Value Equipment: Combine SPDs with MOV-based Surge Arresters for comprehensive protection.

Tip: Proper installation, grounding, and periodic maintenance are critical to ensure the devices work as intended.

Our Products and Services

At GA&DA Electric, we provide high-quality electrical protection devices for all your needs:

• Lightning Arresters (ESE & Conventional)
• Metal Oxide Surge Arresters
• Surge Protection Devices (SPDs) for home and industrial use
• Engineering support for design, installation, and maintenance

Contact us today: https://cngandian.com/contact

FAQ – Surge Arrester & Lightning Arrester