RoHS-compliant arresters banish overvoltage

Several new ranges of lead-free gas-tube surge arresters protect switchgear, telecomms and office equipment, data networks, TV set-top boxes and medical instruments from overvoltage.

Several new ranges of lead-free gas-tube surge arresters protect switchgear, telecomms and office equipment, data networks, TV set-top boxes and medical instruments from overvoltage.

Manufactured using ceramic and glass technology, the arresters are free from radioactive materials.

Surge arresters reduce overvoltages of several thousand volts, caused by factors such as lightning strikes or voltage surges from high-powered equipment, down to a safe level, typically under 10V.

The new two-electrode versions include the A50x mini series which features withstand ratings of up to 5kA in a package of only 5 x 5mm, the A851 series with up to 200A follow-on current, the A841 with DC breakdown voltage rating of up to 4500V and the A820 and A821 series with improved characteristics up to 20kA discharge current (8/20 wave).

The latter two can be used in holders to simplify replacement.

The new three-electrode types cover discharge current ranges of 5 to 20kA for different protection classes.

Depending on the model, the arresters are available in surface-mount, axial or radial leaded versions.

All models comply with the international ITU-T K12, UL-497B and VDE0845 standards and are lead free in accordance with the European RoHS directive.

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