{"id":2241,"date":"2025-11-19T14:11:15","date_gmt":"2025-11-19T06:11:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/?post_type=blog&p=2241"},"modified":"2025-11-19T15:12:37","modified_gmt":"2025-11-19T07:12:37","slug":"type-1-surge-protection-device-vs-type-2-spd","status":"publish","type":"blog","link":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/fr\/blog\/type-1-surge-protection-device-vs-type-2-spd\/","title":{"rendered":"Dispositif de protection contre les surtensions de type 1 VS SPD de type 2"},"content":{"rendered":"In modern electrical systems, surge protectors (SPDs) are critical devices for protecting against damage from lightning strikes and switch surges. However, many people are confused by the different types, such as Type 1 and Type 2\u00a0surge protection device.\r\n\r\nWhat Is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 SPD?This article will provide an in-depth comparison of Parafoudre de type 1<\/strong><\/a> et SPD de type 2 pour vous aider \u00e0 comprendre leurs diff\u00e9rences, leurs sc\u00e9narios d'application et \u00e0 faire le bon choix.\r\n\r\n \r\n

2. Dispositif de protection contre les surtensions de type 1 par rapport au SPD de type 2<\/h2>\r\nSurge protectors (SPDs) are the \"safety valves\" of electrical systems. Type 1 and Type 2 are the two most commonly used SPDs. They each have their own functions and work together to build a complete protection system.\r\n

2.1 Fonction principale des SPD de type 1 et de type 2<\/h2>\r\n\"Dispositif<\/a>\r\n
SPD de type 1 (dispositif de d\u00e9charge de courant de foudre)\u00a0:<\/strong><\/div>\r\n
Fonction principale\u00a0: Fournit une protection contre les coups de foudre directs ou les courants de foudre partiels. G\u00e9n\u00e9ralement plac\u00e9 au point d\u2019entr\u00e9e principal d\u2019un b\u00e2timent, il offre une protection de premier niveau (de base).<\/div>\r\n
T\u00e2che principale\u00a0: G\u00e9rer et rediriger les courants de foudre importants pour arr\u00eater les dommages aux \u00e9quipements et aux lignes en aval.<\/div>\r\n
<\/div>\r\n
SPD de type 2 (dispositif de contr\u00f4le de pression)\u00a0:<\/strong><\/div>\r\n
Fonction principale\u00a0: utilis\u00e9 pour la protection contre les surtensions dues au fonctionnement des interrupteurs et aux surtensions r\u00e9siduelles dues aux coups de foudre induits. Il est g\u00e9n\u00e9ralement install\u00e9 dans des bo\u00eetes de distribution (telles que des bo\u00eetes de distribution au sol) et offre un deuxi\u00e8me niveau (protection interm\u00e9diaire).<\/div>\r\n
T\u00e2che principale\u00a0:\u00a0limite la tension r\u00e9siduelle \u00e0 un niveau s\u00fbr pour les \u00e9quipements terminaux, servant de protection primaire pour les \u00e9quipements \u00e9lectroniques sensibles.<\/div>\r\n
<\/div>\r\n
<\/div>\r\n

2.2 Principaux param\u00e8tres de test<\/h2>\r\n
SPD monophas\u00e9 de type 1\u00a0:<\/strong><\/div>\r\n
Impulse Current (I<sub>imp<\/sub>): The most critical parameter. It indicates the SPD's ability to withstand a typical lightning current, including peak current (10\/350\u03bcs waveform), charge quantity, and other comprehensive requirements. For example: 25 kA (10\/350\u03bcs).<\/div>\r\n
<\/div>\r\n
\"Dispositif<\/a><\/div>\r\n
SPD de type 2\u00a0:<\/strong><\/div>\r\n
Courant de d\u00e9charge nominal (In<\/sub>)\u00a0: le param\u00e8tre de base. Il indique le courant de test standard (forme d'onde 8\/20 \u03bcs) auquel le SPD peut r\u00e9sister plusieurs fois. Par exemple : 20 kA (8\/20\u03bcs).<\/div>\r\n
Courant de d\u00e9charge maximal (Imax<\/sub>)\u00a0: indique le courant de d\u00e9charge maximal (forme d'onde 8\/20\u00a0\u03bcs) que le SPD peut supporter en une seule op\u00e9ration.<\/div>\r\n
<\/div>\r\n
<\/div>\r\n
<\/div>\r\n

2.3 Tester les formes d'onde<\/h2>\r\n10\/350\u03bcs waveform (for Type 1 testing): This waveform simulates some of the current characteristics of a direct lightning strike. Its current rise is slow, but its duration is long, carrying approximately 20 times the energy of the 8\/20\u03bcs waveform, making it extremely destructive.\r\n\r\n8\/20\u03bcs waveform (for Type 2 testing): This waveform simulates induced lightning and switching surges. The current rises quickly, its duration is short, and its energy is relatively small.\r\n\r\n \r\n

2.4 Emplacement d'installation<\/h2>\r\nType 1 lightning surge protection device: Installed in the building's main distribution panel (main incoming line box), located after the electricity meter and before or after the main circuit breaker (depending on product design).\r\n\r\nType 2 SPD: Installed in distribution panels, such as floor distribution boxes or distribution boxes in critical equipment rooms (e.g., data centers, elevator control rooms).\r\n\r\n \r\n

2.5 Relation avec le syst\u00e8me de protection contre les surtensions externes<\/h2>\r\nType 1 SPD: Must be installed at the power inlet of buildings equipped with external lightning protection systems (lightning rods, down conductors). This is a mandatory requirement of international standards (such as IEC 62305) because it effectively handles direct lightning current coupled from the down conductor to the power line.\r\n\r\nType 2 SPD: Not directly mandatory with external lightning protection systems. Type 2 SPDs are required to handle induced surges regardless of whether the building has an external lightning protection system.\r\n\r\n \r\n

2.6 Coordination<\/h2>\r\nLes SPD de type 1 et de type 2 doivent fonctionner ensemble. Une certaine distance de ligne doit \u00eatre maintenue entre eux (g\u00e9n\u00e9ralement recommand\u00e9e d'au moins 10 m\u00e8tres), ou des dispositifs de d\u00e9couplage (tels que des r\u00e9acteurs d\u00e9di\u00e9s) doivent \u00eatre utilis\u00e9s pour garantir qu'en cas de surtension, le SPD de type 1 se d\u00e9clenche d'abord pour dissiper la majeure partie de l'\u00e9nergie, puis le SPD de type 2 se d\u00e9clenche pour limiter la tension r\u00e9siduelle \u00e0 un niveau inf\u00e9rieur. Si la distance est insuffisante, une surtension importante peut contourner le Type 1 et endommager le Type 2.\r\n\r\n \r\n

Ai-je besoin d'un SPD de type 1 ou de type 2\u00a0?<\/h2>\r\nIl s\u2019agit d\u2019un processus d\u00e9cisionnel pour vous aider \u00e0 faire un choix :\r\n

Le b\u00e2timent dispose-t-il d\u2019un syst\u00e8me de protection contre les surtensions externe\u00a0?<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nYes: You must install a Type 1 SPD in the main distribution box.\r\n\r\nNo\/Unsure: You can skip Type 1, but installing Type 2 is strongly recommended.\r\n

\u00c9valuation des risques de surtension sur la ligne \u00e9lectrique entrante<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nM\u00eame sans syst\u00e8me de protection contre la foudre externe, si votre b\u00e2timent est situ\u00e9 dans une zone ouverte, au sommet d'une colline ou s'il est dot\u00e9 de longues lignes \u00e9lectriques a\u00e9riennes, le risque de foudre est \u00e9lev\u00e9. L'installation d'un SPD de type 1 peut fournir un niveau de protection plus \u00e9lev\u00e9.\r\n

D\u00e9cider de la s\u00e9lection<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nScenario A (Standard residential building, no external lightning protection): Installing a Type 2 SPD in the main distribution box provides sufficient protection.\r\n\r\nScenario B (Villa\/commercial building with lightning rod): A Type 1 SPD must be installed in the main distribution box, and Type 2 SPDs must be installed in floor distribution boxes or distribution boxes for critical equipment.\r\n\r\nScenario C (Risk compromise): If space or budget is limited, a Type 1+2 combined SPD can be installed in the main distribution box (see FAQ).\r\n

Concept de protection gradu\u00e9e (coordonn\u00e9e)<\/h2>\r\n

Pourquoi une protection gradu\u00e9e est-elle n\u00e9cessaire\u00a0?<\/h3>\r\nNo single SPD can perfectly handle all types of surges. The concept of tiered protection is:\r\n\r\nType 1 (Level 1): Intercepts and discharges the vast majority of the enormous energy (e.g., 90%) at the inlet.\r\n\r\nType 2 (Level 2): \u200b\u200bFurther limits the residual surge voltage after the first level, bringing it within the equipment's safe range.\r\n\r\nType 3 (Fine Protection): Uses surge strips at the equipment end to provide fine protection for the last mile.\r\n\r\nThis is like a line of defense: the first line weakens the main force, the second line clears the residue, and ensures the safety of the main base (your equipment).\r\n

Sch\u00e9ma de protection gradu\u00e9 typique<\/h3>\r\nA complete solution is as follows:\r\n\r\nLevel I: Main Distribution Box \u2192 Type 1 SPD\r\n\r\nLevel II: Floor Distribution Box \u2192 Type 2 SPD\r\n\r\nLevel III: Equipment Front-End (e.g., sockets) \u2192 Type 3 SPD (surge power strip)\r\n

FAQ<\/h2>\r\nPuis-je installer des SPD monophas\u00e9s de type 1 et de type 2\u00a0?<\/strong>\r\n\r\nAbsolutely, and it's best practice. Type 1 and Type 2 single phase SPDs work together to provide tiered protection from the inlet to the device.\r\n\r\nDiff\u00e9rence entre le Spd combin\u00e9 de type 1 + 2 et leur installation s\u00e9par\u00e9ment<\/strong>\r\n
SPD combin\u00e9 de type 1+2\u00a0: un seul appareil int\u00e8gre \u00e0 la fois les modules de type 1 et de type 2. Ses avantages incluent un gain de place et une installation facile, ce qui le rend particuli\u00e8rement adapt\u00e9 aux sc\u00e9narios avec un espace limit\u00e9 dans le bo\u00eetier de distribution principal. Il a pass\u00e9 avec succ\u00e8s les tests de coordination pour garantir une bonne compatibilit\u00e9 des modules.<\/div>\r\n
<\/div>\r\n
Installation s\u00e9par\u00e9e\u00a0: offre une flexibilit\u00e9 et une maintenabilit\u00e9 maximales. Si un module de type 1 est endommag\u00e9, seul le module de type 1 peut \u00eatre remplac\u00e9 sans affecter le module de type 2. Il faut toutefois garantir une distance suffisante entre eux, sinon utiliser un dispositif de d\u00e9couplage.<\/div>\r\n
<\/div>\r\nJ'utilise des barrettes de surtension sur mes prises. Dois-je installer un SPD de type 2\u00a0?<\/strong>\r\n\r\nAbsolutely necessary. Surge power strips (Type 3 SPDs) have limited discharge capabilities; they are designed to absorb very small residual surges at the device end. They cannot withstand major surge energy transmitted from the power line.\r\n\r\nWithout a Type 2 SPD dissipating energy at the pre-amplifier stage, a larger surge could directly destroy your surge power strip and connected devices. Type 2 SPDs are the mainstay in protecting the entire circuit branch.\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nSPD monophas\u00e9 VS SPD triphas\u00e9 de type 1<\/strong>\r\n\r\nLes SPD monophas\u00e9s sont utilis\u00e9s dans les syst\u00e8mes d'alimentation monophas\u00e9s (un fil sous tension et un fil neutre), tandis que les SPD triphas\u00e9s de type 1 sont utilis\u00e9s dans les syst\u00e8mes d'alimentation triphas\u00e9s (trois fils sous tension et un fil neutre ou trois fils sous tension, un fil neutre et un fil de terre), con\u00e7us pour prot\u00e9ger tous les fils de phase contre les surtensions massives telles que les coups de foudre directs.\r\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\r\n
SPD de type 1 ou de type 2 ? Choisir entre les SPD de type 1 et de type 2 n'est pas une question de choix, mais plut\u00f4t une question de savoir comment construire une hi\u00e9rarchie efficace de protection contre la foudre.<\/div>\r\n
Type 1 SPDs are the \"heavy armor\" against direct lightning strikes and are the mandatory first choice for buildings with external lightning protection systems.<\/div>\r\n
Type 2 SPDs are the \"main force\" against everyday surges and are core protection equipment that almost all buildings should have installed.<\/div>\r\n
La strat\u00e9gie la plus s\u00fbre et la plus fiable consiste \u00e0 suivre un principe de protection \u00e0 plusieurs niveaux\u00a0: d\u00e9ployer le type 1 aux entr\u00e9es principales, le type 2 aux bo\u00eetes de distribution et les barrettes de surtension aux emplacements finaux des \u00e9quipements. Gr\u00e2ce \u00e0 ce syst\u00e8me de protection en couches, vous pouvez fournir la protection la plus compl\u00e8te pour votre \u00e9quipement et vos biens \u00e9lectriques.<\/div>","protected":false},"featured_media":2246,"parent":0,"menu_order":106,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false},"blog_category":[9],"class_list":["post-2241","blog","type-blog","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","blog_category-industry-news"],"acf":{"des":"Comparison of Type 1 surge protection device and Type 2 SPD to help you understand their differences, application scenarios, and make the right choice.","txt":"In modern electrical systems, surge protectors (SPDs) are critical devices for protecting against damage from lightning strikes and switch surges. However, many people are confused by the different types, such as Type 1 and Type 2\u00a0surge protection device.\r\n\r\nWhat Is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 SPD?This article will provide an in-depth comparison of Type 1 surge protection device<\/strong><\/a> and Type 2 SPDs to help you understand their differences, application scenarios, and make the right choice.\r\n\r\n \r\n

2. Type 1 Surge Protection Device Vs Type 2 SPD<\/h2>\r\nSurge protectors (SPDs) are the \"safety valves\" of electrical systems. Type 1 and Type 2 are the two most commonly used SPDs. They each have their own functions and work together to build a complete protection system.\r\n

2.1 Main function of Type 1 and Type 2 SPD<\/h2>\r\n\"BR-25M<\/a>\r\n
Type 1 SPD (Lightning Current Discharge Device):<\/strong><\/div>\r\n
Main Function: Provides protection from direct lightning strikes or partial lightning currents. Usually placed at the main entry point of a building, it gives first-level (basic) protection.<\/div>\r\n
Core Task: Handles and redirects large lightning currents to stop damage to equipment and lines downstream.<\/div>\r\n
<\/div>\r\n
Type 2 SPD (Pressure Control Device):<\/strong><\/div>\r\n
Main Function: Used for protection against surges from switch operation and residual surges from induced lightning strikes. It is typically installed in distribution boxes (such as floor distribution boxes) and provides second-level (intermediate protection).<\/div>\r\n
Core Task: Limits residual voltage to a safe level for terminal equipment, serving as the primary protection for sensitive electronic equipment.<\/div>\r\n
<\/div>\r\n
<\/div>\r\n

2.2 Main Test Parameters<\/h2>\r\n
Type 1 SPD Single Phase:<\/strong><\/div>\r\n
Impulse Current (I<sub>imp<\/sub>): The most critical parameter. It indicates the SPD's ability to withstand a typical lightning current, including peak current (10\/350\u03bcs waveform), charge quantity, and other comprehensive requirements. For example: 25 kA (10\/350\u03bcs).<\/div>\r\n
<\/div>\r\n
\"BR-20<\/a><\/div>\r\n
Type 2 SPD:<\/strong><\/div>\r\n
Nominal Discharge Current (I<sub>n<\/sub>): The core parameter. It indicates the standard test current (8\/20\u03bcs waveform) that the SPD can withstand multiple times. For example: 20 kA (8\/20\u03bcs).<\/div>\r\n
Maximum Discharge Current (I<sub>max<\/sub>): Indicates the maximum discharge current (8\/20\u03bcs waveform) that the SPD can withstand in a single operation.<\/div>\r\n
<\/div>\r\n
<\/div>\r\n
<\/div>\r\n

2.3 Test Waveforms<\/h2>\r\n10\/350\u03bcs waveform (for Type 1 testing): This waveform simulates some of the current characteristics of a direct lightning strike. Its current rise is slow, but its duration is long, carrying approximately 20 times the energy of the 8\/20\u03bcs waveform, making it extremely destructive.\r\n\r\n8\/20\u03bcs waveform (for Type 2 testing): This waveform simulates induced lightning and switching surges. The current rises quickly, its duration is short, and its energy is relatively small.\r\n\r\n \r\n

2.4 Installation Location<\/h2>\r\nType 1 lightning surge protection device: Installed in the building's main distribution panel (main incoming line box), located after the electricity meter and before or after the main circuit breaker (depending on product design).\r\n\r\nType 2 SPD: Installed in distribution panels, such as floor distribution boxes or distribution boxes in critical equipment rooms (e.g., data centers, elevator control rooms).\r\n\r\n \r\n

2.5 Reltation of External Surge Protection System<\/h2>\r\nType 1 SPD: Must be installed at the power inlet of buildings equipped with external lightning protection systems (lightning rods, down conductors). This is a mandatory requirement of international standards (such as IEC 62305) because it effectively handles direct lightning current coupled from the down conductor to the power line.\r\n\r\nType 2 SPD: Not directly mandatory with external lightning protection systems. Type 2 SPDs are required to handle induced surges regardless of whether the building has an external lightning protection system.\r\n\r\n \r\n

2.6 Coordination<\/h2>\r\nType 1 and Type 2 SPDs need to work together. A certain line distance must be maintained between them (generally recommended to be at least 10 meters), or decoupling devices (such as dedicated reactors) should be used to ensure that, in the event of a surge, the Type 1 SPD trips first to dissipate most of the energy, and then the Type 2 SPD trips to limit the residual voltage to a lower level. If the distance is insufficient, a large surge may bypass the Type 1 and damage the Type 2.\r\n\r\n \r\n

Do I Need Type 1 Or Type 2 SPD?<\/h2>\r\nThis is a decision-making process to help you make a choice:\r\n

Does The Building Have An External Surge Protection System?<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nYes: You must install a Type 1 SPD in the main distribution box.\r\n\r\nNo\/Unsure: You can skip Type 1, but installing Type 2 is strongly recommended.\r\n

Surge Risk Assessment At Incoming Power Line<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nEven without an external lightning protection system, if your building is located in an open area, on a hilltop, or has long overhead power lines, the risk of lightning strikes is high. Installing a Type 1 SPD can provide a higher level of protection.\r\n

Decide Selection<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nScenario A (Standard residential building, no external lightning protection): Installing a Type 2 SPD in the main distribution box provides sufficient protection.\r\n\r\nScenario B (Villa\/commercial building with lightning rod): A Type 1 SPD must be installed in the main distribution box, and Type 2 SPDs must be installed in floor distribution boxes or distribution boxes for critical equipment.\r\n\r\nScenario C (Risk compromise): If space or budget is limited, a Type 1+2 combined SPD can be installed in the main distribution box (see FAQ).\r\n

Concept Of Graded (Coordinated) Protection<\/h2>\r\n

Why Is Graded Protection Necessary?<\/h3>\r\nNo single SPD can perfectly handle all types of surges. The concept of tiered protection is:\r\n\r\nType 1 (Level 1): Intercepts and discharges the vast majority of the enormous energy (e.g., 90%) at the inlet.\r\n\r\nType 2 (Level 2): \u200b\u200bFurther limits the residual surge voltage after the first level, bringing it within the equipment's safe range.\r\n\r\nType 3 (Fine Protection): Uses surge strips at the equipment end to provide fine protection for the last mile.\r\n\r\nThis is like a line of defense: the first line weakens the main force, the second line clears the residue, and ensures the safety of the main base (your equipment).\r\n

Typical Graded Protection Scheme<\/h3>\r\nA complete solution is as follows:\r\n\r\nLevel I: Main Distribution Box \u2192 Type 1 SPD\r\n\r\nLevel II: Floor Distribution Box \u2192 Type 2 SPD\r\n\r\nLevel III: Equipment Front-End (e.g., sockets) \u2192 Type 3 SPD (surge power strip)\r\n

FAQ<\/h2>\r\nCan I Install Both Type 1 And Type 2 Single Phase SPD?<\/strong>\r\n\r\nAbsolutely, and it's best practice. Type 1 and Type 2 single phase SPDs work together to provide tiered protection from the inlet to the device.\r\n\r\nDifference Between Type 1+2 Combined Spd And Installing Them Separately<\/strong>\r\n
Type 1+2 Combined SPD: A single device integrates both Type 1 and Type 2 modules. Its advantages include space saving and easy installation, making it particularly suitable for scenarios with limited space in the main distribution box. It has passed coordination testing to ensure proper module compatibility.<\/div>\r\n
<\/div>\r\n
Separate Installation: Offers maximum flexibility and maintainability. If a Type 1 module is damaged, only the Type 1 module can be replaced without affecting the Type 2 module. However, sufficient distance must be ensured between them, or a decoupling device must be used.<\/div>\r\n
<\/div>\r\nI Use Surge Strips On My Outlets. Do I Need To Install Type 2 SPD?<\/strong>\r\n\r\nAbsolutely necessary. Surge power strips (Type 3 SPDs) have limited discharge capabilities; they are designed to absorb very small residual surges at the device end. They cannot withstand major surge energy transmitted from the power line.\r\n\r\nWithout a Type 2 SPD dissipating energy at the pre-amplifier stage, a larger surge could directly destroy your surge power strip and connected devices. Type 2 SPDs are the mainstay in protecting the entire circuit branch.\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nSingle Phase SPD VS Three phase Type 1 SPD<\/strong>\r\n\r\nSingle-phase SPDs are used in single-phase power supply systems (one live wire and one neutral wire), while three-phase Type 1 SPDs are used in three-phase power supply systems (three live wires and one neutral wire or three live wires, one neutral wire, and one ground wire), designed to protect all phase wires from massive surge impacts such as direct lightning strikes.\r\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\r\n
SPD Type 1 Vs Type 2?Choosing between Type 1 and Type 2 SPDs is not an either-or question, but rather a question of how to build an effective lightning protection hierarchy.<\/div>\r\n
Type 1 SPDs are the \"heavy armor\" against direct lightning strikes and are the mandatory first choice for buildings with external lightning protection systems.<\/div>\r\n
Type 2 SPDs are the \"main force\" against everyday surges and are core protection equipment that almost all buildings should have installed.<\/div>\r\n
The safest and most reliable strategy is to follow a tiered protection principle: deploy Type 1 at main entrances, Type 2 at distribution boxes, and surge strips at final equipment locations. Through this layered protection system, you can provide the most comprehensive protection for your electrical equipment and property.<\/div>"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog\/2241","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/blog"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2246"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2241"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"blog_category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog_category?post=2241"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}