Difference between Lightning Arresters and Surge Arresters

Electric jargons can be hard to understand most of the time. Even professionals use a few terms interchangeably and make matters complex to understand.

But, Electrogrip is here to simplify this problem for you once in for all!

Electrogrip is a chemical earthing manufacturer in Kolkata. We specialize in ESE Lightning Protection System, and lightning arresters and also provide free chemical earthing. We deal with all sorts of earthing and lightning products and ensure your safety.

Before understanding the difference between lightning arrestors and surge arrestors let’s figure out their basic definition.

What is a lightning arrestor?

difference between light arrester and surge arrester

A light arrester is a protective device used on an electrical power transmission system to prevent it from getting damaged by the harmful effects of lightning.

Lightning arrestors are generally mounted in places of entryways of electrical appliances. When lightning strikes, the arrestor does not stop it. Instead, it gets activated and diverts the lightning current to the ground where it disperses without harming anything or anyone.

What is a surge arrester?

A surge arrester is a protective device for limiting voltage on equipment by discharging or bypassing the current. Surge Arrestors divert the lightning and limit it but do not absorb it.

These are generally installed in circuit breakers inside your homes.

Main Differences

Functionality – Lightning Arrestors prevent lightning from damaging the electrical appliances from outside. However, surge arrestors protect several electrical appliances from

damaging from inside the houses.

Alternative Use – Lightning Arrestors are primarily used for the prevention of lightning strikes. Alternatively, it can be used to link surges as well.

Surge Arresters primarily interrupt surges and divert the surplus energy towards the ground.

Types – Lightning Arrestors come in various types such as rod, multi gap, horn, sphere, and much more.

Surge Arrestors too come in different types however, these types are different from lightning arrestors such as low voltage, direct current, distribution, signal, and much more.

Conclusion

The decision of picking between the lightning arrestors and surge arrestors for the safety of your house is up to you. However, it’s always advised to consult an expert like Electrogrip! We’ll be happy to help you.