Issue link: https://resources.mouser.com/i/1437723
6 Other types of common power transients are less visible and can be caused by events inside a facility. These internal transients come from many sources. For instance, when a heavy load, such as a refrigerator, air conditioner, or an electric motor in a piece of industrial equipment cycles on or off, it generates a power transient that can damage other equipment. Other types of transients include discharge from inductive devices such as transformers and motors, induced voltages caused by inductive coupling with high-voltage lines, switch or breaker contacts opening and closing, and electrostatic discharges. Damaging transients are not confined to power lines, however. They also show up on signal and data lines. In some cases, the transients are transferred from power lines to signal and data lines by inductive coupling. Although lightning and its destructive effects are highly visible, the less visible internal transients may cause more damage because they can trigger operational irregularities, degrade electrical components, and shorten the operational life of equipment. In fact, internal power transients are viewed as the most likely silent destroyers of electronic components, which is why incorporating effective surge protection can reduce the costs associated with operational disruptions and equipment failure. The surge protection technology you choose depends on the nature of the equipment that needs protection, the types of power transients against which it must be protected, and the cost of surge protection technology. Surge Protection Is a Balancing Act "Older machines do not have surge protection and as such are susceptible to power surges. These could shut down its operation – e.g., burn a fuse or fry its controls entirely." George Burlacu, Compliance Engineer, GVA Lighting, Inc. There are a lot of regulatory requirements based on where the surge protection is installed. Think of the likelihood of lightning strikes on a 200-foot pole compared to that of a one-story house. Thomas Tran Technical Marketing Manager, Bourns, Inc.