1. Reminders about spark gaps
1.1 Operating principle
The spark gap is the simplest, oldest, sturdiest and cheapest means of protection. It generally consists of two electrodes, one connected to the element to be protected, the other to earth. The air gap between the two electrodes constitutes a weak point in the network installation, preventing an ignition from occurring at a point in the network where it could have serious consequences. The distance between these two electrodes is adjustable and determines the ignition voltage.
The shape and nature of the electrodes vary widely, but are generally the result of dielectric test campaigns to give them well-defined ignition properties for given environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure of ambient air).
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Reminders about spark gaps
Silicon carbide and spark gap arresters
Documentation sources
References
Standards
France
French Standards Association (AFNOR) http://www.boutique.afnor.org
- Surge arresters. 1re part: variable-resistance surge arresters with spark gaps for AC networks (classification index: C 65-100). - NF EN 60099-1 - 08-94
- Parafoudres. Partie 4 : parafoudres à oxyde métallique sans éclateur pour réseaux à courant...
Manufacturers. Suppliers
These lists do not take into account market volumes and are not exhaustive.
HTA ZnO arresters with synthetic enclosure
ABB SA http://www.abb.com
DERVASIL SA http://www.sicame.com
MacLean Power Systems...
Events
CIGRE, International Council on Large Electric Systems, groups B2 (overhead lines) and B3 (substations), general session every 2 years in Paris + specialized symposia organized by the working groups
ISH, International Symposium on High Voltage Engineering, an academic conference held every 2 years, alternating with the CIGRE general session.
SEE, Société des Électriciens et Électroniciens,...
Tools
Software
EMTP-RV, software for modeling the transient behavior of power systems http://www.emtp.com
FLUX2D, 2D finite element code for electrostatic, dielectric and thermal modeling http://www.cedrat-groupe.com
COULOMB: 3D finite-element...
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