{"id":2163,"date":"2025-08-22T15:08:56","date_gmt":"2025-08-22T07:08:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/?post_type=blog&#038;p=2163"},"modified":"2025-08-22T15:35:44","modified_gmt":"2025-08-22T07:35:44","slug":"types-of-surge-protection-devices","status":"publish","type":"blog","link":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/blog\/types-of-surge-protection-devices\/","title":{"rendered":"Diversi tipi di dispositivi di protezione contro le sovratensioni (SPD)"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2 data-start=\"384\" data-end=\"404\">1. Introduzione<\/h2>\r\n<p data-start=\"405\" data-end=\"685\">Le sovratensioni sono killer silenziosi nei moderni sistemi elettrici. Dall'elettronica residenziale all'automazione industriale e agli impianti solari, anche una singola sovratensione transitoria pu\u00f2 causare tempi di inattivit\u00e0, riparazioni costose o guasti alle apparecchiature. La soluzione? <strong data-start=\"647\" data-end=\"683\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/product-category\/ac-power-surge-protection\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Dispositivi di protezione contro le sovratensioni (SPD)<\/a><\/span>.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-start=\"687\" data-end=\"952\">In questa guida analizzeremo i diversi tipi di dispositivi di protezione da sovratensione, spiegheremo come funzionano e confronteremo le loro applicazioni. Alla fine, saprai esattamente quali tipi di SPD si adattano al tuo sistema, che si tratti di una casa, di un data center o di un'installazione fotovoltaica.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 data-start=\"959\" data-end=\"1001\">2. Cosa sono i dispositivi di protezione dalle sovratensioni?<\/h2>\r\n<p data-start=\"1002\" data-end=\"1283\">A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/product-category\/ac-power-surge-protection\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong data-start=\"1004\" data-end=\"1037\">Dispositivo di protezione contro le sovratensioni (SPD)<\/strong> <\/span><\/a>\u00e8 un componente di sicurezza installato in un sistema elettrico per limitare le sovratensioni transitorie causate da fulmini, eventi di commutazione o disturbi della rete. Funziona deviando l'energia di sovratensione in modo sicuro a terra, proteggendo le apparecchiature collegate.<\/p>\r\n<p data-start=\"1285\" data-end=\"1440\">Pensa a un SPD come a una valvola di rilascio della pressione: non impedisce il verificarsi del picco, ma incanala l'energia in eccesso lontano dai componenti elettronici sensibili.<\/p>\r\n<p data-start=\"1285\" data-end=\"1440\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/product-category\/ac-power-surge-protection\/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-2160\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-2160\" src=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/BR-20-4P-1Type-2-Surge-Protection-Device.jpg-1024x1024.webp\" alt=\"Tipi di dispositivi di protezione contro le sovratensioni\" width=\"705\" height=\"705\" \/><\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 data-start=\"1447\" data-end=\"1486\">3. Come funziona la protezione contro le sovratensioni?<\/h2>\r\n<p data-start=\"1487\" data-end=\"1734\">Gli SPD si basano su componenti quali varistori a ossido di metallo (MOV), tubi a scarica di gas (GDT) e spinterometri. Quando la tensione supera una soglia di sicurezza (Uc), l'SPD passa in modalit\u00e0 di conduzione, limitando la sovratensione a una tensione residua inferiore (Up).<\/p>\r\n<p data-start=\"1736\" data-end=\"1767\">Parametri chiave da comprendere:<\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"1768\" data-end=\"2141\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1768\" data-end=\"1853\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1770\" data-end=\"1853\"><strong data-start=\"1770\" data-end=\"1816\">Uc (tensione operativa continua massima):<\/strong> la tensione normale che l'SPD pu\u00f2 gestire.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1854\" data-end=\"1945\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1856\" data-end=\"1945\"><strong data-start=\"1856\" data-end=\"1890\">Su (livello di protezione tensione):<\/strong> tensione di bloccaggio che i dispositivi a valle \u201cvedranno\u201d.\u201d<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1946\" data-end=\"2048\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1948\" data-end=\"2048\"><strong data-start=\"1948\" data-end=\"2000\">In\/Imax (corrente di scarica nominale e massima):<\/strong> quanta corrente di picco pu\u00f2 assorbire il dispositivo.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2049\" data-end=\"2141\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2051\" data-end=\"2141\"><strong data-start=\"2051\" data-end=\"2078\">Iimp (corrente impulsiva):<\/strong> specifico del Tipo 1, che rappresenta le forme d'onda dei fulmini.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/attachment\/spd-install\/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-2159\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2159\" src=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/SPD-install.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"745\" height=\"609\" \/><\/a>\r\n<h2 data-start=\"486\" data-end=\"527\">4. Tipi di dispositivi di protezione dalle sovratensioni<\/h2>\r\n<p data-start=\"529\" data-end=\"821\">Comprendere i tipi di SPD \u00e8 la chiave per progettare una protezione da sovratensione a pi\u00f9 livelli. Standard internazionali come <a href=\"https:\/\/webstore.iec.ch\/en\/publication\/65314\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong data-start=\"639\" data-end=\"660\">IEC 61643-11 (CA)<\/strong><\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/webstore.iec.ch\/en\/publication\/26931\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong data-start=\"662\" data-end=\"686\">IEC 61643-31 (CC\/FV)<\/strong><\/a>, E <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nemasurge.org\/ul-1449-transient-voltage-surge-suppressors\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><strong data-start=\"692\" data-end=\"719\">UL 1449 (Nord America)<\/strong> <\/a>definire classi diverse in base alle forme d'onda di prova, alla capacit\u00e0 energetica e al luogo di installazione.<\/p>\r\n<p data-start=\"823\" data-end=\"975\">Di seguito, analizziamo i diversi tipi di dispositivi di protezione da sovratensione (SPD) che incontrerai, con i loro ruoli tecnici e le linee guida per l'applicazione.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 data-start=\"982\" data-end=\"1038\">4.1 SPD di tipo 1 (IEC 61643-11, Classe I, 10\/350 \u00b5s)<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"1039\" data-end=\"1975\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1039\" data-end=\"1201\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1041\" data-end=\"1201\"><strong data-start=\"1041\" data-end=\"1056\">Definizione:<\/strong> Progettato per scaricare la corrente di fulmine parziale. Testato con la forma d'onda ad impulso 10\/350 \u00b5s (Iimp) che rappresenta una fulminazione diretta.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1202\" data-end=\"1383\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1204\" data-end=\"1383\"><strong data-start=\"1204\" data-end=\"1227\">Punto di installazione:<\/strong> Ingresso di servizio, tipicamente a monte del quadro di distribuzione principale. Spesso utilizzato in edifici dotati di un sistema di protezione contro i fulmini esterno (LPS).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1384\" data-end=\"1658\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1386\" data-end=\"1407\"><strong data-start=\"1386\" data-end=\"1405\">Parametri chiave:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"1410\" data-end=\"1658\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1410\" data-end=\"1475\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1412\" data-end=\"1475\">Iimp (Impulse Current): capacit\u00e0 nominale della corrente di fulmine.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1478\" data-end=\"1571\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1480\" data-end=\"1571\">Uc (tensione operativa continua massima): garantisce l'assenza di danni durante il normale funzionamento.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1574\" data-end=\"1658\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1576\" data-end=\"1658\">Up (Voltage Protection Level): tensione residua vista dai circuiti a valle.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1659\" data-end=\"1731\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1661\" data-end=\"1731\"><strong data-start=\"1661\" data-end=\"1681\">Tecnologia utilizzata:<\/strong> Spinterometri, MOV per carichi pesanti o design ibridi.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1732\" data-end=\"1862\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1734\" data-end=\"1750\"><strong data-start=\"1734\" data-end=\"1748\">Casi d'uso:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"1753\" data-end=\"1862\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1753\" data-end=\"1806\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1755\" data-end=\"1806\">Impianti industriali, torri di telecomunicazioni, ospedali.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1809\" data-end=\"1862\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1811\" data-end=\"1862\">Edifici alti in regioni ad alta densit\u00e0 di fulmini.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1863\" data-end=\"1975\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1865\" data-end=\"1975\"><strong data-start=\"1865\" data-end=\"1877\">Esempio:<\/strong> Una fabbrica con parafulmini sul tetto richieder\u00e0 SPD di tipo 1 alla fornitura principale in entrata.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"1982\" data-end=\"2037\">4.2 SPD di tipo 2 (IEC 61643-11, Classe II, 8\/20 \u00b5s)<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"2038\" data-end=\"2824\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2038\" data-end=\"2167\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2040\" data-end=\"2167\"><strong data-start=\"2040\" data-end=\"2055\">Definizione:<\/strong> Gestisce le sovratensioni di commutazione e gli effetti indiretti dei fulmini. Testato con forma d'onda di corrente 8\/20 \u00b5s (In, Imax).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2168\" data-end=\"2248\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2170\" data-end=\"2248\"><strong data-start=\"2170\" data-end=\"2193\">Punto di installazione:<\/strong> Quadri di distribuzione principali o secondari all'interno dell'impianto.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2249\" data-end=\"2496\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2251\" data-end=\"2272\"><strong data-start=\"2251\" data-end=\"2270\">Parametri chiave:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"2275\" data-end=\"2496\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2275\" data-end=\"2347\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2277\" data-end=\"2347\">In (corrente di scarica nominale): resistenza a pi\u00f9 picchi.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2350\" data-end=\"2417\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2352\" data-end=\"2417\">Imax (corrente di scarica massima): massima capacit\u00e0 di sovratensione.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2420\" data-end=\"2496\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2422\" data-end=\"2496\">Su: deve coordinarsi sia con il Tipo 1 a monte che con il Tipo 3 a valle.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2497\" data-end=\"2578\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2499\" data-end=\"2578\"><strong data-start=\"2499\" data-end=\"2519\">Tecnologia utilizzata:<\/strong> Moduli basati su MOV, spesso collegabili per una facile sostituzione.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2579\" data-end=\"2716\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2581\" data-end=\"2597\"><strong data-start=\"2581\" data-end=\"2595\">Casi d'uso:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"2600\" data-end=\"2716\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2600\" data-end=\"2655\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2602\" data-end=\"2655\">Case residenziali, edifici per uffici, negozi al dettaglio.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2658\" data-end=\"2716\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2660\" data-end=\"2716\">Protezione standard in aree con moderato rischio di sovratensione.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2717\" data-end=\"2824\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2719\" data-end=\"2824\"><strong data-start=\"2719\" data-end=\"2731\">Esempio:<\/strong> Un piccolo ufficio senza LPS esterno utilizzerebbe tipicamente gli SPD di tipo 2 nella scheda principale.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nVuoi un'analisi dettagliata? Leggi la nostra guida completa: <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><em><strong data-start=\"1021\" data-end=\"1147\"><a class=\"decorated-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/blog\/what-is-a-type-2-surge-protection-device\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"1023\" data-end=\"1145\">Che cos'\u00e8 un dispositivo di protezione da sovratensione di tipo 2?<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/span>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"2831\" data-end=\"2890\">4.3 SPD di tipo 3 (IEC 61643-11, Classe III, onda combinata)<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"2891\" data-end=\"3555\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2891\" data-end=\"3022\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2893\" data-end=\"3022\"><strong data-start=\"2893\" data-end=\"2908\">Definizione:<\/strong> Protezione fine per apparecchiature terminali. Testato con onda combinata (tensione 1,2\/50 \u00b5s + corrente 8\/20 \u00b5s).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3023\" data-end=\"3126\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3025\" data-end=\"3126\"><strong data-start=\"3025\" data-end=\"3048\">Punto di installazione:<\/strong> Il pi\u00f9 vicino possibile al dispositivo protetto (presa, ingresso del dispositivo).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3127\" data-end=\"3273\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3129\" data-end=\"3150\"><strong data-start=\"3129\" data-end=\"3148\">Parametri chiave:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"3153\" data-end=\"3273\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3153\" data-end=\"3216\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3155\" data-end=\"3216\">Su: livello di bloccaggio molto basso per proteggere i carichi sensibili.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3219\" data-end=\"3273\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3221\" data-end=\"3273\">Deve essere utilizzato in coordinamento con il Tipo 2 a monte.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3274\" data-end=\"3348\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3276\" data-end=\"3348\"><strong data-start=\"3276\" data-end=\"3296\">Tecnologia utilizzata:<\/strong> MOV combinati con filtri per un'attenuazione extra.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3349\" data-end=\"3435\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3351\" data-end=\"3367\"><strong data-start=\"3351\" data-end=\"3365\">Casi d'uso:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"3370\" data-end=\"3435\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3370\" data-end=\"3435\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3372\" data-end=\"3435\">Computer, driver LED, elettronica medicale e sistemi di controllo.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3436\" data-end=\"3555\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3438\" data-end=\"3555\"><strong data-start=\"3438\" data-end=\"3450\">Esempio:<\/strong> Una macchina per risonanza magnetica ospedaliera richiede un SPD di tipo 3 vicino al dispositivo, che lavora insieme al tipo 2 a monte.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nScopri di pi\u00f9 nel nostro articolo dedicato: <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><em><strong data-start=\"1474\" data-end=\"1584\"><a class=\"decorated-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/blog\/what-is-a-type-3-surge-protector\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"1476\" data-end=\"1582\">Che cos'\u00e8 un limitatore di sovratensione di tipo 3?<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/span>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"3562\" data-end=\"3594\">4.4 SPD combinati T1+T2<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"3595\" data-end=\"4178\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3595\" data-end=\"3710\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3597\" data-end=\"3710\"><strong data-start=\"3597\" data-end=\"3612\">Definizione:<\/strong> Una singola unit\u00e0 SPD testata per entrambe le forme d'onda di Classe I (10\/350 \u00b5s) e Classe II (8\/20 \u00b5s).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3711\" data-end=\"3804\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3713\" data-end=\"3804\"><strong data-start=\"3713\" data-end=\"3725\">Beneficio:<\/strong> Protegge dai fulmini diretti e dalle sovratensioni in un unico dispositivo.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3805\" data-end=\"3895\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3807\" data-end=\"3895\"><strong data-start=\"3807\" data-end=\"3830\">Punto di installazione:<\/strong> Ingresso al servizio quando lo spazio o il budget limitano pi\u00f9 dispositivi.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3896\" data-end=\"4076\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3898\" data-end=\"3914\"><strong data-start=\"3898\" data-end=\"3912\">Casi d'uso:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"3917\" data-end=\"4076\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3917\" data-end=\"3996\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3919\" data-end=\"3996\">Gli edifici commerciali o residenziali di medie dimensioni necessitano di soluzioni compatte.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3999\" data-end=\"4076\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4001\" data-end=\"4076\">Siti in cui il coordinamento tra Tipo 1 e Tipo 2 separati \u00e8 difficile.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4077\" data-end=\"4178\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4079\" data-end=\"4178\"><strong data-start=\"4079\" data-end=\"4091\">Esempio:<\/strong> A shopping mall's main switchboard may install a T1+T2 SPD to simplify protection.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"4185\" data-end=\"4217\">4.5 SPD combinati T2+T3<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"4218\" data-end=\"4676\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4218\" data-end=\"4299\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4220\" data-end=\"4299\"><strong data-start=\"4220\" data-end=\"4235\">Definizione:<\/strong> I dispositivi ibridi sono testati per le prestazioni di Classe II e Classe III.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4300\" data-end=\"4374\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4302\" data-end=\"4374\"><strong data-start=\"4302\" data-end=\"4314\">Beneficio:<\/strong> Fornisce protezione sia a livello di distribuzione che terminale.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4375\" data-end=\"4477\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4377\" data-end=\"4477\"><strong data-start=\"4377\" data-end=\"4400\">Punto di installazione:<\/strong> Sottoquadri vicini a carichi sensibili, soprattutto se i cavi superano i 10 m.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4478\" data-end=\"4559\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4480\" data-end=\"4496\"><strong data-start=\"4480\" data-end=\"4494\">Casi d'uso:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"4499\" data-end=\"4559\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4499\" data-end=\"4559\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4501\" data-end=\"4559\">Data center, sale server, armadi di controllo industriali.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4560\" data-end=\"4676\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4562\" data-end=\"4676\"><strong data-start=\"4562\" data-end=\"4574\">Esempio:<\/strong> Una linea di automazione industriale con cavi lunghi verso i PLC pu\u00f2 utilizzare un SPD T2+T3 vicino ai pannelli PLC.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"4683\" data-end=\"4734\">4.6 SPD di tipo 4 (UL 1449, solo Nord America)<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"4735\" data-end=\"5324\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4735\" data-end=\"4856\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4737\" data-end=\"4856\"><strong data-start=\"4737\" data-end=\"4762\">Definizione (UL 1449):<\/strong> Gruppi di componenti non intesi come dispositivi autonomi ma integrati in apparecchiature OEM.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4857\" data-end=\"5012\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4859\" data-end=\"4879\"><strong data-start=\"4859\" data-end=\"4877\">Sottocategorie:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"4882\" data-end=\"5012\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4882\" data-end=\"4965\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4884\" data-end=\"4965\">Assiemi di componenti di tipo 4 (CA): parti SPD preconfezionate per produttori.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4968\" data-end=\"5012\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4970\" data-end=\"5012\">Componenti di tipo 5: MOV grezzi o GDT.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5013\" data-end=\"5099\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5015\" data-end=\"5099\"><strong data-start=\"5015\" data-end=\"5038\">Punto di installazione:<\/strong> All'interno di elettrodomestici, alimentatori o pannelli personalizzati.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5100\" data-end=\"5230\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5102\" data-end=\"5118\"><strong data-start=\"5102\" data-end=\"5116\">Casi d'uso:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"5121\" data-end=\"5230\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5121\" data-end=\"5166\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5123\" data-end=\"5166\">OEM che progettano apparecchiature protette da sovratensioni.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5169\" data-end=\"5230\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5171\" data-end=\"5230\">Ingranaggi industriali specializzati nel mercato nordamericano.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5231\" data-end=\"5324\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5233\" data-end=\"5324\"><strong data-start=\"5233\" data-end=\"5245\">Esempio:<\/strong> Un produttore di UPS integra gruppi SPD di tipo 4 all'interno dei suoi prodotti.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"5331\" data-end=\"5382\">4.7 SPD FV\/CC (IEC 61643-31, fino a 1500 VCC)<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"5383\" data-end=\"6082\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5383\" data-end=\"5474\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5385\" data-end=\"5474\"><strong data-start=\"5385\" data-end=\"5400\">Definizione:<\/strong> Dispositivi di protezione contro le sovratensioni progettati per circuiti fotovoltaici e CC.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5475\" data-end=\"5555\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5477\" data-end=\"5555\"><strong data-start=\"5477\" data-end=\"5496\">Standard di prova:<\/strong> La norma IEC 61643-31 specifica i requisiti per le applicazioni CC.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5556\" data-end=\"5647\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5558\" data-end=\"5647\"><strong data-start=\"5558\" data-end=\"5581\">Punto di installazione:<\/strong> Scatole combinatrici di array fotovoltaici, inverter e quadri di distribuzione CC.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5648\" data-end=\"5876\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5650\" data-end=\"5671\"><strong data-start=\"5650\" data-end=\"5669\">Parametri chiave:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"5674\" data-end=\"5876\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5674\" data-end=\"5740\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5676\" data-end=\"5740\">Ucpv: tensione FV continua nominale (600 V, 1000 V, 1500 V).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5743\" data-end=\"5796\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5745\" data-end=\"5796\">In \/ Imax: gestione della corrente di picco sul lato DC.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5799\" data-end=\"5876\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5801\" data-end=\"5876\">Tempo di risposta: deve essere sufficientemente veloce per gli inverter basati su semiconduttori.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5877\" data-end=\"5976\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5879\" data-end=\"5895\"><strong data-start=\"5879\" data-end=\"5893\">Casi d'uso:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"5898\" data-end=\"5976\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5898\" data-end=\"5976\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5900\" data-end=\"5976\">Parchi solari su scala industriale, sistemi fotovoltaici su tetto, impianti di stoccaggio di batterie.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5977\" data-end=\"6082\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5979\" data-end=\"6082\"><strong data-start=\"5979\" data-end=\"5991\">Esempio:<\/strong> Sar\u00e0 necessario un parco solare da 1500 V CC <a href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/product_category\/pv-surge-protection-type-1-type-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong data-start=\"6024\" data-end=\"6041\">SPD FV T1+T2<\/strong><\/a> alle scatole combinatrici e agli ingressi dell'inverter.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p data-start=\"6089\" data-end=\"6304\"><strong data-start=\"6091\" data-end=\"6115\">Suggerimento per i lettori:<\/strong> Utilizzare sempre a <em data-start=\"6129\" data-end=\"6153\">sistema SPD coordinato<\/em>. Tipo 1 all'ingresso, Tipo 2 ai sottoquadri e Tipo 3 in prossimit\u00e0 dei carichi critici. Per il fotovoltaico, aggiungere SPD CC di tipo 2 o T1+T2 come specificato dalla norma IEC 61643-31.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 data-start=\"3151\" data-end=\"3197\">5. Dispositivi SPD di Tipo 1, Tipo 2 e Tipo 3<\/h2>\r\n<p data-start=\"3199\" data-end=\"3436\">Se desideri un approfondimento, consulta il nostro blog dedicato a questo argomento qui:<br data-start=\"3270\" data-end=\"3273\" \/><a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/blog\/difference-between-type-1-type-2-and-type-3-surge-protective-devices\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"3276\" data-end=\"3434\"><em><strong>Differenza tra SPD di Tipo 1, Tipo 2 e Tipo 3<\/strong><\/em><\/a><\/p>\r\n<p data-start=\"3438\" data-end=\"3504\">Ecco un rapido confronto per aiutarti a scegliere il tipo SPD giusto:<\/p>\r\n\r\n<table>\r\n<thead>\r\n<tr>\r\n<th>Attributo<\/th>\r\n<th><strong>SPD di tipo 1<\/strong><\/th>\r\n<th><strong>SPD di tipo 2<\/strong><\/th>\r\n<th><strong>SPD di tipo 3<\/strong><\/th>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/thead>\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Norma testata<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td>IEC 61643-11 Classe I (10\/350 \u00b5s) + UL tipo 1\/2 a doppia classificazione<\/td>\r\n<td>IEC 61643-11 Classe II (8\/20 \u00b5s) + UL Tipo 2<\/td>\r\n<td>IEC 61643-11 Classe III (onda combinata) + UL Tipo 3<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Posizione tipica<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td>Ingresso di servizio\/Centralino principale<\/td>\r\n<td>All'interno dei quadri\/sottoquadri<\/td>\r\n<td>Entro 1 m dai carichi critici (computer, conducenti, apparecchiature mediche)<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Funzione primaria<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td>Gestire la corrente diretta del fulmine; proteggere l'ingresso dell'edificio<\/td>\r\n<td>Gestire picchi modulari derivanti da commutazioni, archi di guasto, ecc.<\/td>\r\n<td>Sopprime l'energia residua per i componenti elettronici sensibili.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Focus sui parametri<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td>Alta impedenza; Uc \u2265 tensione di sistema; Coordinazione<\/td>\r\n<td>In Imax, Up in cascata con SPD a monte\/a valle<\/td>\r\n<td>Ultra-basso; bloccaggio preciso per proteggere i carichi sensibili<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Nota sull'installazione<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td>Necessita di cablaggio di grandi dimensioni (\u226516 mm\u00b2); pu\u00f2 essere installato senza OCPD a monte; deve essere coordinato con il Tipo 2<\/td>\r\n<td>Richiede protezione da sovracorrente a monte; cablaggio \u22656 mm\u00b2<\/td>\r\n<td>Molto vicino al carico; supplemento al Tipo 2 a monte<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Casi d'uso<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td>Edifici con LPS, strutture alte e zone ad alta illuminazione<\/td>\r\n<td>La maggior parte delle abitazioni, delle strutture commerciali e dei sottoquadri industriali<\/td>\r\n<td>Cluster PC, rack PLC, sistemi LED\/medicali<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n<h4 data-start=\"1155\" data-end=\"1168\">Panoramica<\/h4>\r\n<ul data-start=\"1183\" data-end=\"1421\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1183\" data-end=\"1258\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1185\" data-end=\"1258\"><strong data-start=\"1185\" data-end=\"1200\">SPD di tipo 1<\/strong> gestire fulmini diretti ad alta energia (10\/350 \u00b5s).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1259\" data-end=\"1334\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1261\" data-end=\"1334\"><strong data-start=\"1261\" data-end=\"1276\">SPD di tipo 2<\/strong> mitigare le sovratensioni di commutazione e le accensioni indirette (8\/20 \u00b5s).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1335\" data-end=\"1421\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1337\" data-end=\"1421\"><strong data-start=\"1337\" data-end=\"1352\">SPD di tipo 3<\/strong> proteggere le apparecchiature sensibili nell'ultimo miglio (forma d'onda combinata).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2 data-start=\"185\" data-end=\"253\">6. Come installare e coordinare i dispositivi di protezione da sovratensione (SPD)<\/h2>\r\n<p data-start=\"255\" data-end=\"619\">L'installazione corretta \u00e8 altrettanto fondamentale quanto la selezione dei giusti tipi di dispositivi di protezione da sovratensione (SPD). Un cablaggio improprio o uno scarso coordinamento possono compromettere i livelli di protezione, anche se l'SPD stesso soddisfa gli standard IEC o UL. Sulla base degli standard IEC 61643-11, IEC 61643-31, UL 1449 e delle linee guida tecniche della nostra azienda, ecco le migliori pratiche principali:<\/p>\r\n<p data-start=\"255\" data-end=\"619\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/attachment\/spds-install\/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-2167\"><img class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2167\" src=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/SPDs-install-1024x726.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"726\" \/><\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 data-start=\"621\" data-end=\"654\">1. Regola di connessione pi\u00f9 breve<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"655\" data-end=\"917\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"655\" data-end=\"789\">\r\n<p data-start=\"657\" data-end=\"789\">Mantenere tutti i cavi di collegamento dell'SPD quanto pi\u00f9 corti e diritti possibile, idealmente \u2264 0,5 m (come raccomandato nel nostro manuale tecnico).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"790\" data-end=\"917\">\r\n<p data-start=\"792\" data-end=\"917\">I cavi lunghi introducono un aumento di tensione induttiva, che aumenta la tensione residua (Up) vista dall'apparecchiatura protetta.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"919\" data-end=\"950\">2. Dimensione corretta del conduttore<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"951\" data-end=\"1317\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"951\" data-end=\"1242\">\r\n<p data-start=\"953\" data-end=\"1002\">Utilizzare conduttori dimensionati in base al tipo di SPD:<\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"1005\" data-end=\"1242\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1005\" data-end=\"1089\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1007\" data-end=\"1089\"><strong data-start=\"1007\" data-end=\"1022\">SPD di tipo 1:<\/strong> minimo 16 mm\u00b2 di rame (corrente di fulmine ad alta energia, Iimp).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1092\" data-end=\"1137\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1094\" data-end=\"1137\"><strong data-start=\"1094\" data-end=\"1109\">SPD di tipo 2:<\/strong> minimo 6 mm\u00b2 di rame.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1140\" data-end=\"1242\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1142\" data-end=\"1242\"><strong data-start=\"1142\" data-end=\"1157\">SPD di tipo 3:<\/strong> seguire i dati del produttore, in genere sezioni trasversali pi\u00f9 piccole a causa della corrente inferiore.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1243\" data-end=\"1317\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1245\" data-end=\"1317\">Utilizzare sempre conduttori in rame a bassa impedenza ed evitare curve strette.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"1319\" data-end=\"1349\">3. Collegamento equipotenziale<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"1350\" data-end=\"1571\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1350\" data-end=\"1447\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1352\" data-end=\"1447\">Tutti gli SPD devono essere collegati alla stessa barra di terra principale o al sistema di collegamento equipotenziale.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1448\" data-end=\"1571\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1450\" data-end=\"1571\">Il collegamento garantisce che l'energia di picco venga scaricata in modo sicuro a terra, evitando pericolose differenze di potenziale tra i circuiti.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"1573\" data-end=\"1598\">4. Coordinamento DOCUP<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"1599\" data-end=\"2069\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1599\" data-end=\"1738\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1601\" data-end=\"1738\">Gerarchia del livello di protezione della tensione (Up): gli SPD a monte (Tipo 1) dovrebbero sempre avere un Up pi\u00f9 alto rispetto agli SPD a valle (Tipo 2\/3).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1739\" data-end=\"1907\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1741\" data-end=\"1907\">Regola della distanza: se il cavo tra gli SPD e i carichi protetti \u00e8 pi\u00f9 lungo di 10 m, installare un SPD aggiuntivo a valle (ad esempio, Tipo 3) per una migliore protezione.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1908\" data-end=\"2069\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1910\" data-end=\"2069\">Coordinamento parallelo: per la protezione multistadio (Tipo 1 + Tipo 2 + Tipo 3), garantire un'adeguata distribuzione dell'energia in modo che nessun singolo dispositivo sia sovraccaricato.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"2071\" data-end=\"2105\">5. Protezione di backup (OCPD)<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"2106\" data-end=\"2388\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2106\" data-end=\"2187\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2108\" data-end=\"2187\">Utilizzare sempre fusibili o interruttori automatici dedicati per proteggere l'SPD stesso.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2188\" data-end=\"2271\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2190\" data-end=\"2271\">Il nostro manuale specifica i valori nominali dei fusibili di riserva in base al modello SPD e Imax\/Iimp.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2272\" data-end=\"2388\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2274\" data-end=\"2388\">UL 1449 richiede inoltre un'adeguata protezione da sovracorrente per prevenire il surriscaldamento o il guasto dell'SPD durante eventi estremi.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p data-start=\"2395\" data-end=\"2660\"><strong data-start=\"2397\" data-end=\"2409\">Suggerimento professionale:<\/strong> Verificare sempre il rispetto delle <strong data-start=\"2440\" data-end=\"2521\">IEC 61643-11 (SPD CA), IEC 61643-31 (SPD FV\/CC), <\/strong>o UL 1449 (Nord America) a seconda della regione. Una corretta installazione e coordinamento massimizzano la durata dell'SPD e garantiscono la sicurezza dell'intero sistema elettrico.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 data-start=\"6325\" data-end=\"6343\">7. Conclusione<\/h2>\r\n<p data-start=\"6344\" data-end=\"6467\">I tipi di dispositivi di protezione da sovratensione non sono intercambiabili: ciascuno svolge un ruolo unico nella difesa dei sistemi elettrici.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"6468\" data-end=\"6720\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"6468\" data-end=\"6524\">\r\n<p data-start=\"6470\" data-end=\"6524\"><strong data-start=\"6470\" data-end=\"6480\">Tipo 1<\/strong> scherma contro i fulmini diretti.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"6525\" data-end=\"6581\">\r\n<p data-start=\"6527\" data-end=\"6581\"><strong data-start=\"6527\" data-end=\"6537\">Tipo 2<\/strong> \u00e8 il cavallo di battaglia per i quadri di distribuzione.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"6582\" data-end=\"6638\">\r\n<p data-start=\"6584\" data-end=\"6638\"><strong data-start=\"6584\" data-end=\"6594\">Tipo 3<\/strong> protegge i tuoi dispositivi elettronici pi\u00f9 sensibili.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"6639\" data-end=\"6720\">\r\n<p data-start=\"6641\" data-end=\"6720\"><strong data-start=\"6641\" data-end=\"6672\">Combinazioni e SPD PV\/DC<\/strong> coprire applicazioni specializzate e rinnovabili.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p data-start=\"6722\" data-end=\"6892\">Comprendendo i tipi di SPD, i relativi standard e le regole di installazione, \u00e8 possibile progettare una difesa a pi\u00f9 livelli che garantisca sicurezza, riduca al minimo i tempi di inattivit\u00e0 e protegga gli investimenti.<\/p>","protected":false},"featured_media":2160,"parent":0,"menu_order":125,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false},"blog_category":[9],"class_list":["post-2163","blog","type-blog","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","blog_category-industry-news"],"acf":{"des":"Discover the different Types of Surge Protection Devices (SPDs) \u2014 Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, combo units, and PV\/DC solutions. Backed by IEC and UL standards, this guide explains how each SPD works, where to install it, and how to coordinate them for reliable protection of homes, businesses, and solar systems.","txt":"<h2 data-start=\"384\" data-end=\"404\">1. Introduction<\/h2>\r\n<p data-start=\"405\" data-end=\"685\">Power surges are silent killers in modern electrical systems. From residential electronics to industrial automation and solar plants, even a single transient overvoltage can cause downtime, costly repairs, or equipment failure. The solution? <strong data-start=\"647\" data-end=\"683\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/product-category\/ac-power-surge-protection\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Surge Protection Devices (SPDs)<\/a><\/span>.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-start=\"687\" data-end=\"952\">In this guide, we\u2019ll break down the different Types of Surge Protection Devices, explain how they work, and compare their applications. By the end, you\u2019ll know exactly which SPD types fit your system \u2014 whether it\u2019s a home, data center, or PV installation.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 data-start=\"959\" data-end=\"1001\">2. What Are Surge Protection Devices?<\/h2>\r\n<p data-start=\"1002\" data-end=\"1283\">A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/product-category\/ac-power-surge-protection\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong data-start=\"1004\" data-end=\"1037\">Surge Protection Device (SPD)<\/strong> <\/span><\/a>is a safety component installed in an electrical system to limit transient overvoltages caused by lightning strikes, switching events, or utility disturbances. It works by diverting surge energy safely to earth, protecting connected equipment.<\/p>\r\n<p data-start=\"1285\" data-end=\"1440\">Think of an SPD as a pressure-release valve: it doesn\u2019t stop the surge from happening, but it channels the excess energy away from sensitive electronics.<\/p>\r\n<p data-start=\"1285\" data-end=\"1440\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/product-category\/ac-power-surge-protection\/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-2160\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-2160 \" src=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/BR-20-4P-1Type-2-Surge-Protection-Device.jpg-1024x1024.webp\" alt=\"Types of Surge Protection Devices\" width=\"705\" height=\"705\" \/><\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 data-start=\"1447\" data-end=\"1486\">3. How Does Surge Protection Work?<\/h2>\r\n<p data-start=\"1487\" data-end=\"1734\">SPDs rely on components such as Metal Oxide Varistors (MOVs), Gas Discharge Tubes (GDTs), and spark gaps. When voltage exceeds a safe threshold (Uc), the SPD switches into conduction mode, clamping the surge to a lower residual voltage (Up).<\/p>\r\n<p data-start=\"1736\" data-end=\"1767\">Key parameters to understand:<\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"1768\" data-end=\"2141\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1768\" data-end=\"1853\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1770\" data-end=\"1853\"><strong data-start=\"1770\" data-end=\"1816\">Uc (Maximum Continuous Operating Voltage):<\/strong> the normal voltage the SPD can handle.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1854\" data-end=\"1945\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1856\" data-end=\"1945\"><strong data-start=\"1856\" data-end=\"1890\">Up (Voltage Protection Level):<\/strong> clamping voltage that downstream devices will \u201csee.\u201d<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1946\" data-end=\"2048\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1948\" data-end=\"2048\"><strong data-start=\"1948\" data-end=\"2000\">In \/ Imax (Nominal &amp; Maximum Discharge Current):<\/strong> how much surge current the device can absorb.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2049\" data-end=\"2141\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2051\" data-end=\"2141\"><strong data-start=\"2051\" data-end=\"2078\">Iimp (Impulse Current):<\/strong> specific to Type 1, representing lightning strike waveforms.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/attachment\/spd-install\/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-2159\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2159\" src=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/SPD-install.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"745\" height=\"609\" \/><\/a>\r\n<h2 data-start=\"486\" data-end=\"527\">4. Types of Surge Protection Devices<\/h2>\r\n<p data-start=\"529\" data-end=\"821\">Understanding SPD types is the key to designing layered surge protection. International standards such as <a href=\"https:\/\/webstore.iec.ch\/en\/publication\/65314\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong data-start=\"639\" data-end=\"660\">IEC 61643-11 (AC)<\/strong><\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/webstore.iec.ch\/en\/publication\/26931\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong data-start=\"662\" data-end=\"686\">IEC 61643-31 (DC\/PV)<\/strong><\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nemasurge.org\/ul-1449-transient-voltage-surge-suppressors\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><strong data-start=\"692\" data-end=\"719\">UL 1449 (North America)<\/strong> <\/a>define different classes based on test waveforms, energy capability, and installation location.<\/p>\r\n<p data-start=\"823\" data-end=\"975\">Below, we break down the different types of surge protection devices (SPDs) you\u2019ll encounter, with their technical roles and application guidance.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 data-start=\"982\" data-end=\"1038\">4.1 Type 1 SPDs (IEC 61643-11, Class I, 10\/350 \u00b5s)<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"1039\" data-end=\"1975\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1039\" data-end=\"1201\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1041\" data-end=\"1201\"><strong data-start=\"1041\" data-end=\"1056\">Definition:<\/strong> Designed to discharge partial lightning current. Tested with the 10\/350 \u00b5s impulse waveform (Iimp) representing a direct lightning strike.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1202\" data-end=\"1383\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1204\" data-end=\"1383\"><strong data-start=\"1204\" data-end=\"1227\">Installation Point:<\/strong> Service entrance, typically upstream of the main distribution board. Often used in buildings equipped with an external Lightning Protection System (LPS).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1384\" data-end=\"1658\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1386\" data-end=\"1407\"><strong data-start=\"1386\" data-end=\"1405\">Key Parameters:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"1410\" data-end=\"1658\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1410\" data-end=\"1475\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1412\" data-end=\"1475\">Iimp (Impulse Current): rated lightning current capacity.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1478\" data-end=\"1571\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1480\" data-end=\"1571\">Uc (Maximum Continuous Operating Voltage): ensures no damage during normal operation.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1574\" data-end=\"1658\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1576\" data-end=\"1658\">Up (Voltage Protection Level): residual voltage seen by downstream circuits.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1659\" data-end=\"1731\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1661\" data-end=\"1731\"><strong data-start=\"1661\" data-end=\"1681\">Technology Used:<\/strong> Spark gaps, heavy-duty MOVs, or hybrid designs.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1732\" data-end=\"1862\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1734\" data-end=\"1750\"><strong data-start=\"1734\" data-end=\"1748\">Use Cases:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"1753\" data-end=\"1862\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1753\" data-end=\"1806\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1755\" data-end=\"1806\">Industrial facilities, telecom towers, hospitals.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1809\" data-end=\"1862\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1811\" data-end=\"1862\">Tall buildings in high lightning density regions.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1863\" data-end=\"1975\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1865\" data-end=\"1975\"><strong data-start=\"1865\" data-end=\"1877\">Example:<\/strong> A factory with rooftop lightning rods will require Type 1 SPDs at the main incoming supply.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"1982\" data-end=\"2037\">4.2 Type 2 SPDs (IEC 61643-11, Class II, 8\/20 \u00b5s)<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"2038\" data-end=\"2824\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2038\" data-end=\"2167\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2040\" data-end=\"2167\"><strong data-start=\"2040\" data-end=\"2055\">Definition:<\/strong> Handles switching surges and indirect lightning effects. Tested with 8\/20 \u00b5s current waveform (In, Imax).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2168\" data-end=\"2248\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2170\" data-end=\"2248\"><strong data-start=\"2170\" data-end=\"2193\">Installation Point:<\/strong> Main or sub-distribution boards inside the facility.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2249\" data-end=\"2496\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2251\" data-end=\"2272\"><strong data-start=\"2251\" data-end=\"2270\">Key Parameters:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"2275\" data-end=\"2496\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2275\" data-end=\"2347\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2277\" data-end=\"2347\">In (Nominal Discharge Current): endurance under multiple surges.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2350\" data-end=\"2417\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2352\" data-end=\"2417\">Imax (Maximum Discharge Current): maximum surge capability.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2420\" data-end=\"2496\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2422\" data-end=\"2496\">Up: must coordinate with both upstream Type 1 and downstream Type 3.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2497\" data-end=\"2578\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2499\" data-end=\"2578\"><strong data-start=\"2499\" data-end=\"2519\">Technology Used:<\/strong> MOV-based modules, often pluggable for easy replacement.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2579\" data-end=\"2716\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2581\" data-end=\"2597\"><strong data-start=\"2581\" data-end=\"2595\">Use Cases:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"2600\" data-end=\"2716\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2600\" data-end=\"2655\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2602\" data-end=\"2655\">Residential homes, office buildings, retail stores.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2658\" data-end=\"2716\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2660\" data-end=\"2716\">Standard protection in areas with moderate surge risk.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2717\" data-end=\"2824\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2719\" data-end=\"2824\"><strong data-start=\"2719\" data-end=\"2731\">Example:<\/strong> A small office without external LPS would typically use Type 2 SPDs in the main board.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nWant a detailed breakdown? Read our full guide: <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><em><strong data-start=\"1021\" data-end=\"1147\"><a class=\"decorated-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/blog\/what-is-a-type-2-surge-protection-device\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"1023\" data-end=\"1145\">What Is a Type 2 Surge Protection Device?<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/span>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"2831\" data-end=\"2890\">4.3 Type 3 SPDs (IEC 61643-11, Class III, combo wave)<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"2891\" data-end=\"3555\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2891\" data-end=\"3022\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2893\" data-end=\"3022\"><strong data-start=\"2893\" data-end=\"2908\">Definition:<\/strong> Fine protection for terminal equipment. Tested with combination wave (1.2\/50 \u00b5s voltage + 8\/20 \u00b5s current).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3023\" data-end=\"3126\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3025\" data-end=\"3126\"><strong data-start=\"3025\" data-end=\"3048\">Installation Point:<\/strong> As close as possible to the protected device (socket outlet, device input).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3127\" data-end=\"3273\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3129\" data-end=\"3150\"><strong data-start=\"3129\" data-end=\"3148\">Key Parameters:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"3153\" data-end=\"3273\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3153\" data-end=\"3216\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3155\" data-end=\"3216\">Up: very low clamping level to protect sensitive loads.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3219\" data-end=\"3273\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3221\" data-end=\"3273\">Must be used in coordination with upstream Type 2.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3274\" data-end=\"3348\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3276\" data-end=\"3348\"><strong data-start=\"3276\" data-end=\"3296\">Technology Used:<\/strong> MOVs combined with filters for extra attenuation.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3349\" data-end=\"3435\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3351\" data-end=\"3367\"><strong data-start=\"3351\" data-end=\"3365\">Use Cases:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"3370\" data-end=\"3435\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3370\" data-end=\"3435\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3372\" data-end=\"3435\">Computers, LED drivers, medical electronics, and control systems.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3436\" data-end=\"3555\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3438\" data-end=\"3555\"><strong data-start=\"3438\" data-end=\"3450\">Example:<\/strong> A hospital MRI machine requires Type 3 SPD near the device, working together with upstream Type 2.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nLearn more in our dedicated article: <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><em><strong data-start=\"1474\" data-end=\"1584\"><a class=\"decorated-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/blog\/what-is-a-type-3-surge-protector\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"1476\" data-end=\"1582\">What Is a Type 3 Surge Protector?<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/span>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"3562\" data-end=\"3594\">4.4 T1+T2 Combination SPDs<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"3595\" data-end=\"4178\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3595\" data-end=\"3710\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3597\" data-end=\"3710\"><strong data-start=\"3597\" data-end=\"3612\">Definition:<\/strong> A single SPD unit tested for both Class I (10\/350 \u00b5s) and Class II (8\/20 \u00b5s) waveforms.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3711\" data-end=\"3804\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3713\" data-end=\"3804\"><strong data-start=\"3713\" data-end=\"3725\">Benefit:<\/strong> Protects against direct lightning as well as switching surges in one device.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3805\" data-end=\"3895\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3807\" data-end=\"3895\"><strong data-start=\"3807\" data-end=\"3830\">Installation Point:<\/strong> Service entrance when space or budget limits multiple devices.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3896\" data-end=\"4076\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3898\" data-end=\"3914\"><strong data-start=\"3898\" data-end=\"3912\">Use Cases:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"3917\" data-end=\"4076\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3917\" data-end=\"3996\">\r\n<p data-start=\"3919\" data-end=\"3996\">Medium-sized commercial or residential buildings need compact solutions.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"3999\" data-end=\"4076\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4001\" data-end=\"4076\">Sites where coordination between separate Type 1 and Type 2 is difficult.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4077\" data-end=\"4178\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4079\" data-end=\"4178\"><strong data-start=\"4079\" data-end=\"4091\">Example:<\/strong> A shopping mall's main switchboard may install a T1+T2 SPD to simplify protection.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"4185\" data-end=\"4217\">4.5 T2+T3 Combination SPDs<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"4218\" data-end=\"4676\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4218\" data-end=\"4299\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4220\" data-end=\"4299\"><strong data-start=\"4220\" data-end=\"4235\">Definition:<\/strong> Hybrid devices are tested for Class II and Class III performance.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4300\" data-end=\"4374\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4302\" data-end=\"4374\"><strong data-start=\"4302\" data-end=\"4314\">Benefit:<\/strong> Provides both distribution-level and terminal protection.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4375\" data-end=\"4477\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4377\" data-end=\"4477\"><strong data-start=\"4377\" data-end=\"4400\">Installation Point:<\/strong> Sub-panels close to sensitive loads, especially if cable runs exceed 10 m.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4478\" data-end=\"4559\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4480\" data-end=\"4496\"><strong data-start=\"4480\" data-end=\"4494\">Use Cases:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"4499\" data-end=\"4559\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4499\" data-end=\"4559\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4501\" data-end=\"4559\">Data centers, server rooms, industrial control cabinets.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4560\" data-end=\"4676\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4562\" data-end=\"4676\"><strong data-start=\"4562\" data-end=\"4574\">Example:<\/strong> A factory automation line with long cable runs to PLCs can use a T2+T3 SPD near the PLC panels.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"4683\" data-end=\"4734\">4.6 Type 4 SPDs (UL 1449, North America only)<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"4735\" data-end=\"5324\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4735\" data-end=\"4856\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4737\" data-end=\"4856\"><strong data-start=\"4737\" data-end=\"4762\">Definition (UL 1449):<\/strong> Component assemblies not intended as stand-alone devices but integrated into OEM equipment.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4857\" data-end=\"5012\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4859\" data-end=\"4879\"><strong data-start=\"4859\" data-end=\"4877\">Subcategories:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"4882\" data-end=\"5012\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4882\" data-end=\"4965\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4884\" data-end=\"4965\">Type 4 Component Assemblies (CA): pre-packaged SPD parts for manufacturers.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"4968\" data-end=\"5012\">\r\n<p data-start=\"4970\" data-end=\"5012\">Type 5 Components: raw MOVs or GDTs.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5013\" data-end=\"5099\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5015\" data-end=\"5099\"><strong data-start=\"5015\" data-end=\"5038\">Installation Point:<\/strong> Inside appliances, power supplies, or custom-built panels.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5100\" data-end=\"5230\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5102\" data-end=\"5118\"><strong data-start=\"5102\" data-end=\"5116\">Use Cases:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"5121\" data-end=\"5230\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5121\" data-end=\"5166\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5123\" data-end=\"5166\">OEMs designing surge-protected equipment.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5169\" data-end=\"5230\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5171\" data-end=\"5230\">Specialized industrial gear in the North American market.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5231\" data-end=\"5324\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5233\" data-end=\"5324\"><strong data-start=\"5233\" data-end=\"5245\">Example:<\/strong> A UPS manufacturer integrates Type 4 SPD assemblies inside its products.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"5331\" data-end=\"5382\">4.7 PV\/DC SPDs (IEC 61643-31, up to 1500 VDC)<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"5383\" data-end=\"6082\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5383\" data-end=\"5474\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5385\" data-end=\"5474\"><strong data-start=\"5385\" data-end=\"5400\">Definition:<\/strong> Surge protection devices designed for photovoltaic and DC circuits.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5475\" data-end=\"5555\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5477\" data-end=\"5555\"><strong data-start=\"5477\" data-end=\"5496\">Test Standards:<\/strong> IEC 61643-31 specifies requirements for DC applications.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5556\" data-end=\"5647\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5558\" data-end=\"5647\"><strong data-start=\"5558\" data-end=\"5581\">Installation Point:<\/strong> PV array combiner boxes, inverters, and DC distribution boards.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5648\" data-end=\"5876\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5650\" data-end=\"5671\"><strong data-start=\"5650\" data-end=\"5669\">Key Parameters:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"5674\" data-end=\"5876\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5674\" data-end=\"5740\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5676\" data-end=\"5740\">Ucpv: rated continuous PV voltage (600 V, 1000 V, 1500 V).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5743\" data-end=\"5796\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5745\" data-end=\"5796\">In \/ Imax: surge current handling on the DC side.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5799\" data-end=\"5876\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5801\" data-end=\"5876\">Response time: must be fast enough for semiconductor-based inverters.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5877\" data-end=\"5976\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5879\" data-end=\"5895\"><strong data-start=\"5879\" data-end=\"5893\">Use Cases:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"5898\" data-end=\"5976\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5898\" data-end=\"5976\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5900\" data-end=\"5976\">Utility-scale solar farms, rooftop PV systems, battery storage facilities.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"5977\" data-end=\"6082\">\r\n<p data-start=\"5979\" data-end=\"6082\"><strong data-start=\"5979\" data-end=\"5991\">Example:<\/strong> A 1500 VDC solar farm will need <a href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/product_category\/pv-surge-protection-type-1-type-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong data-start=\"6024\" data-end=\"6041\">T1+T2 PV SPDs<\/strong><\/a> at combiner boxes and inverter inputs.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p data-start=\"6089\" data-end=\"6304\"><strong data-start=\"6091\" data-end=\"6115\">Pro Tip for readers:<\/strong> Always use a <em data-start=\"6129\" data-end=\"6153\">coordinated SPD system<\/em>. Type 1 at the entrance, Type 2 at sub-panels, and Type 3 close to critical loads. For PV, add Type 2 or T1+T2 DC SPDs as specified by IEC 61643-31.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 data-start=\"3151\" data-end=\"3197\">5. Type 1 vs Type 2 vs Type 3 SPD Devices<\/h2>\r\n<p data-start=\"3199\" data-end=\"3436\">If you want a deeper dive, check our dedicated blog on this topic here:<br data-start=\"3270\" data-end=\"3273\" \/><a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/blog\/difference-between-type-1-type-2-and-type-3-surge-protective-devices\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"3276\" data-end=\"3434\"><em><strong>Difference Between Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3 SPDs<\/strong><\/em><\/a><\/p>\r\n<p data-start=\"3438\" data-end=\"3504\">Here\u2019s a quick comparison to help you choose the right SPD type:<\/p>\r\n\r\n<table>\r\n<thead>\r\n<tr>\r\n<th>Attribute<\/th>\r\n<th><strong>Type 1 SPD<\/strong><\/th>\r\n<th><strong>Type 2 SPD<\/strong><\/th>\r\n<th><strong>Type 3 SPD<\/strong><\/th>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/thead>\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Tested Standard<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td>IEC 61643-11 Class I (10\/350 \u00b5s) + dual-rated UL Type 1\/2<\/td>\r\n<td>IEC 61643-11 Class II (8\/20 \u00b5s) + UL Type 2<\/td>\r\n<td>IEC 61643-11 Class III (combination wave) + UL Type 3<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Typical Location<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td>Service entrance \/ Main switchboard<\/td>\r\n<td>Inside distribution boards\/sub-panels<\/td>\r\n<td>Within 1 m of critical loads (computers, drivers, medical gear)<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Primary Function<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td>Handle direct lightning current; protect building entrance<\/td>\r\n<td>Handle modular surges from switching, fault arcs, etc.<\/td>\r\n<td>Suppress residual energy for sensitive electronics.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Parameter Focus<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td>High impedance; Uc \u2265 system voltage; Up coordination<\/td>\r\n<td>In Imax, Up cascading with upstream\/downstream SPDs<\/td>\r\n<td>Ultra-low Up; precise clamping to protect sensitive loads<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Installation Note<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td>Needs large wiring (\u226516 mm\u00b2); can be installed without upstream OCPD; must be coordinated with Type 2<\/td>\r\n<td>Requires upstream overcurrent protection; wiring \u22656 mm\u00b2<\/td>\r\n<td>Very close to load; supplement to upstream Type 2<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Use Cases<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td>Buildings with LPS, tall structures, and high lightning zones<\/td>\r\n<td>Most homes, commercial facilities, and industrial sub-panels<\/td>\r\n<td>PC clusters, PLC racks, LED\/medical systems<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n<h4 data-start=\"1155\" data-end=\"1168\">Overview<\/h4>\r\n<ul data-start=\"1183\" data-end=\"1421\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1183\" data-end=\"1258\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1185\" data-end=\"1258\"><strong data-start=\"1185\" data-end=\"1200\">Type 1 SPDs<\/strong> handle high-energy, direct lightning strokes (10\/350 \u00b5s).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1259\" data-end=\"1334\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1261\" data-end=\"1334\"><strong data-start=\"1261\" data-end=\"1276\">Type 2 SPDs<\/strong> mitigate switching surges and indirect strikes (8\/20 \u00b5s).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1335\" data-end=\"1421\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1337\" data-end=\"1421\"><strong data-start=\"1337\" data-end=\"1352\">Type 3 SPDs<\/strong> protect sensitive equipment at the last mile (combination waveform).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2 data-start=\"185\" data-end=\"253\">6. How to Install and Coordinate Surge Protection Devices (SPD)<\/h2>\r\n<p data-start=\"255\" data-end=\"619\">Correct installation is just as critical as selecting the right Types of Surge Protection Devices (SPD). Improper wiring or poor coordination can compromise protection levels, even if the SPD itself meets IEC or UL standards. Based on IEC 61643-11, IEC 61643-31, UL 1449, and our company\u2019s engineering guidelines, here are the key best practices:<\/p>\r\n<p data-start=\"255\" data-end=\"619\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/attachment\/spds-install\/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-2167\"><img class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2167\" src=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/SPDs-install-1024x726.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"726\" \/><\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 data-start=\"621\" data-end=\"654\">1. Shortest Connection Rule<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"655\" data-end=\"917\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"655\" data-end=\"789\">\r\n<p data-start=\"657\" data-end=\"789\">Keep all SPD connecting leads as short and straight as possible, ideally \u2264 0.5 m (as recommended in our technical manual).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"790\" data-end=\"917\">\r\n<p data-start=\"792\" data-end=\"917\">Long leads introduce inductive voltage rise, which increases the residual voltage (Up) seen by the protected equipment.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"919\" data-end=\"950\">2. Correct Conductor Size<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"951\" data-end=\"1317\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"951\" data-end=\"1242\">\r\n<p data-start=\"953\" data-end=\"1002\">Use conductors sized according to the SPD type:<\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"1005\" data-end=\"1242\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1005\" data-end=\"1089\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1007\" data-end=\"1089\"><strong data-start=\"1007\" data-end=\"1022\">Type 1 SPD:<\/strong> minimum 16 mm\u00b2 copper (high-energy lightning current, Iimp).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1092\" data-end=\"1137\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1094\" data-end=\"1137\"><strong data-start=\"1094\" data-end=\"1109\">Type 2 SPD:<\/strong> minimum 6 mm\u00b2 copper.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1140\" data-end=\"1242\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1142\" data-end=\"1242\"><strong data-start=\"1142\" data-end=\"1157\">Type 3 SPD:<\/strong> follow the manufacturer\u2019s data, typically smaller cross-sections due to lower current.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1243\" data-end=\"1317\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1245\" data-end=\"1317\">Always use copper conductors with low impedance and avoid sharp bends.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"1319\" data-end=\"1349\">3. Equipotential Bonding<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"1350\" data-end=\"1571\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1350\" data-end=\"1447\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1352\" data-end=\"1447\">All SPDs must be connected to the same main earthing bar or equipotential bonding system.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1448\" data-end=\"1571\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1450\" data-end=\"1571\">Bonding ensures surge energy is safely discharged to ground, avoiding dangerous potential differences between circuits.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"1573\" data-end=\"1598\">4. SPD Coordination<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"1599\" data-end=\"2069\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1599\" data-end=\"1738\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1601\" data-end=\"1738\">Voltage Protection Level (Up) Hierarchy: Upstream SPDs (Type 1) should always have a higher Up than downstream SPDs (Type 2\/3).<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1739\" data-end=\"1907\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1741\" data-end=\"1907\">Distance Rule: If the cable between SPDs and protected loads is longer than 10 m, install an additional downstream SPD (e.g., Type 3) for better protection.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"1908\" data-end=\"2069\">\r\n<p data-start=\"1910\" data-end=\"2069\">Parallel Coordination: For multi-stage protection (Type 1 + Type 2 + Type 3), ensure proper energy distribution so that no single device is overstressed.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"2071\" data-end=\"2105\">5. Back-Up Protection (OCPD)<\/h3>\r\n<ul data-start=\"2106\" data-end=\"2388\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2106\" data-end=\"2187\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2108\" data-end=\"2187\">Always use dedicated fuses or circuit breakers to protect the SPD itself.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2188\" data-end=\"2271\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2190\" data-end=\"2271\">Our manual specifies back-up fuse ratings depending on SPD model and Imax\/Iimp.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"2272\" data-end=\"2388\">\r\n<p data-start=\"2274\" data-end=\"2388\">UL 1449 also requires proper overcurrent protection to prevent SPD overheating or failure during extreme events.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p data-start=\"2395\" data-end=\"2660\"><strong data-start=\"2397\" data-end=\"2409\">Pro Tip:<\/strong> Always verify compliance with <strong data-start=\"2440\" data-end=\"2521\">IEC 61643-11 (AC SPDs), IEC 61643-31 (PV\/DC SPDs), <\/strong>or UL 1449 (North America) depending on your region. Correct installation and coordination maximize SPD lifetime and ensure safety of the entire electrical system.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 data-start=\"6325\" data-end=\"6343\">7. Conclusion<\/h2>\r\n<p data-start=\"6344\" data-end=\"6467\">Types of Surge Protection Devices are not interchangeable \u2014 each plays a unique role in defending electrical systems.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"6468\" data-end=\"6720\">\r\n \t<li data-start=\"6468\" data-end=\"6524\">\r\n<p data-start=\"6470\" data-end=\"6524\"><strong data-start=\"6470\" data-end=\"6480\">Type 1<\/strong> shields against direct lightning strikes.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"6525\" data-end=\"6581\">\r\n<p data-start=\"6527\" data-end=\"6581\"><strong data-start=\"6527\" data-end=\"6537\">Type 2<\/strong> is the workhorse for distribution boards.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"6582\" data-end=\"6638\">\r\n<p data-start=\"6584\" data-end=\"6638\"><strong data-start=\"6584\" data-end=\"6594\">Type 3<\/strong> protects your most sensitive electronics.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li data-start=\"6639\" data-end=\"6720\">\r\n<p data-start=\"6641\" data-end=\"6720\"><strong data-start=\"6641\" data-end=\"6672\">Combinations and PV\/DC SPDs<\/strong> cover specialized and renewable applications.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p data-start=\"6722\" data-end=\"6892\">By understanding SPD types, their standards, and installation rules, you can design a layered defense that ensures safety, minimizes downtime, and protects investments.<\/p>"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog\/2163","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/blog"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2160"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2163"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"blog_category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog_category?post=2163"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}