The Performance Evaluation of Surge Absorber Contained Low Voltage Distribution Equipments by Lightning Impulse Test

Abstract

In these days, integrated circuits have been increasingly used for Low Voltage (hereinafter LV) distribution equipments for the purpose of making more multi-functional and downsizing. However insulation of the circuits is easily broken by lightning surge from the power line, so the number of troubles is also getting increased. On the other hand, there is no authorized standard value of the lightning withstand performance for LV distribution equipments. Here, we implemented Lightning Impulse Withstand Voltage (hereinafter LIWV) test and Lightning Impulse Withstand Current (hereinafter LIWC) test in order to verify the value. As a result, we made it clear that if LV distribution equipments’ integrated circuits are protected by surge absorber, the lightning withstand performance is determined not only by LIWV performance but also by the performance of surge absorber, i.e. LIWC test should be implemented for the performance evaluation.