The concept of surge protection relies upon a specific action, one that creates a gap that electricity cannot jump, or creates a diversion that sends it a different direction. This concept is the basis behind all devices that are installed for the purpose of protecting equipment from surge related damage, and is employed in both residential and commercial applications. The simplified version of the concept is that a device is created that will allow electricity to flow across it as long as that electricity is within a certain range. If the level of electricity exceeds that specified range, then an action takes place which will either create a gap that the flow cannot cross, or divert it to ground. This device is then installed into the equipment that allows electrical flow, or into places where electrical flow could happen. Generally, this means that the devices are installed into cables and wires that are either designed to allow for electrical flow, or which could allow for it if electricity was to couple into them. Power and data transfer lines are examples of these types of equipment. In addition to the obvious areas of installation, surge protection devices can also be fitted into critical junction spots, an example being within metal structures where electricity could couple into the framing of the structure itself. The surge protection devices act as a dam, one that allows the flow until it is unsafe, then cuts off that flow in one manner or another. This method has remained the staple of surge protection technology since it was invented. While there have been vast improvements in the technology of the devices themselves, or the sensitivity with which they can operate in order to cut the electrical flow more effectively, the broad concept remains unchanged.
The main differentiation between residential and industrial surge protection applications is found in the robustness of the materials the devices are constructed from, or the sensitivity of the device. Because there are far greater amounts of potential losses involved in industrial applications, the surge protection devices themselves are required to operate at a higher level of performance. Because these types of improvements over other “more standard” devices will require additional costs, the industrial versions are generally made to perform better with the expectation of being more expensive. The devices that are installed into home applications are created with that market in mind, where a level of protection is desired, but only for a price that a consumer can afford. A consumer will generally think of the expense of a home computer or similar device, and not want to spend more than that device costs to protect it. While there may be higher levels of protection available, and more robust devices that can function on a higher level, the typical household will choose a less expensive version simply because there is not as much at stake. The industrial versions of surge protection devices feature the most robust housings and components, as well as the highest levels of technological advancements available. Raycap creates and distributes the world’s best performing surge protection devices for both commercial and residential applications.
