The Lightning arresters are used for protecting the power system from the high voltage surges. The main function of the Surge arrester or the lighting arrester is to allow the discharge of electric current from Dangerous over-voltages before it can damage the normal power system. It has the capability to discharge over-voltages that occurred during switching of unloaded Transformers and long lines. The functions and features of The Lightning arresters are as follows:
- The Lightning arresters are capable of discharging lightning and switching surges over the temporary power frequency of the high voltages.
- It is capable of withstanding and continuous operating voltages.
- The Lightning arresters are capable enough so as to eliminate the influence of grading and Staging capacitance on the measured high voltage.
- It is also suitable for the duty cycle of the circuit breaker in the power system.
The construction of the LAMCO DVC approved lighting arresters by RKCC is done in such a manner that makes it excellent in the mechanical and electrical properties. So the constructional features of The Lightning arresters are mentioned below:
- The Lightning arresters are designed in such a manner that it obtains robust construction with excellent mechanical and electrical properties even after using it a number of times. It is adequately designed so as to operate satisfactory performance under the power frequency over high voltages.
- The Lightning arresters are fitted with pressure relief devices and Ark diverting point so as to minimize the possibilities of shattering the porcelain and also provides the path for the flow of current.
- While designing the lighting arresters, proper distance is provided so as to reduce the excessive uneven voltages that may occur due to contamination.
- The seals are provided in such a manner that these are effectively maintained even when the discharging of maximum returning lightning current occurs.
- The end fittings of The Lightning arresters are made in such a manner that non magnetic and corrosion proof material are used so as to provide a support structure to the whole design.
- There are a minimum number of lightning arrestor units for lightning arrestors of 120 KV rating and more above it.
The LAMCO DVC approved lightning arrestors provided by RKCC (RK Cera Chem) are one of the leading providers of lightning arresters. These are effectively used to provide protection of incoming and outgoing lines and also from the power transformers and from the power frequency over the high-voltages.