What is the purpose of a Surge-Protective Device (SPD)?

The purpose of a Surge-Protective Device (SPD) is to reduce surge current and limit voltage. SPDs are essential in protecting electrical equipment and systems from transient overvoltages, such as those caused by lightning strikes, power surges, or electrical faults. By clamping down excessive voltage to a safe level, SPDs help prevent damage to sensitive electronics and ensure the reliability of the electrical system.

When a voltage surge occurs, an SPD will divert the excess energy away from the protected equipment and safely ground it, thus minimizing the risk of equipment failure and prolonging its lifespan. This capability is critical in environments where sensitive electronic devices are used, as unregulated surges can lead to significant operational disruptions and costly repairs.

In contrast, increasing surge voltage on equipment, measuring electrical load, or amplifying electrical signals are functions unrelated to the primary role of an SPD, which focuses specifically on managing and mitigating voltage spikes.