carrie

A surge is a burst of energy that exceeds the voltage and amperage capacity of downstream equipment, causing equipment damage if not suppressed. The most observable, destructive cause of surge damage is lightning. Through magnetic induction, even non-direct lightning strikes in the vicinity of exposed overhead electrical lines can produce 20kV surges. Surprisingly, however, lightning is not the most common cause of power disturbances. In many areas, 80% to 90% of surges come from utility distribution systems, inductive loads, electromagnetic interference and radio frequency interference.

1) Utility Distribution Systems interconnect many different types of loads that are continually switched, causing momentary short circuits and contact re-closures that can be hazardous for computers and other sensitive equipment down the line.

2) Inductive Loads are the result of powering up and down the electrical equipment with in a facility. They can send voltage fluctuations through power lines to other sensitive equipment on the line.

3) Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) and Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) are caused by the proliferation of electronic equipment in the work environment. They can be responsible for data errors and the early wear of electronic components