Overvoltage Absorber
Item Name Code (INC) 21899
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An item specifically designed to absorb and consume surges of voltage such as that resulting across contacts when breaking a circuit having an inductive load or a burst of static across a telephone receiver. It is connected in parallel with the item it is protecting. It may be made up of metallic rectifier cells or semiconductor devices connected back-to-back which may or may not be shunted by a capacitor. It may also be a single rectifier cell or semiconductor device shunted by a capacitor. Excludes metallic rectifiers which are rated for rectifying capabilities and all single unit semiconductor devices not shunted by a capacitor. For items perfoming this function by use of voltage sensitive resistors, see RESISTOR, VOLTAGE SENSITIVE. See also CUTOUT DISK, PROTECTIVE.
Additional Information for Overvoltage Absorber
Overvoltage absorbers, also known as surge absorbers or surge suppressors, are devices used to protect electrical and electronic equipment from voltage spikes or surges. These surges can occur due to lightning strikes, power grid fluctuations, or switching operations.
The main function of an overvoltage absorber is to divert excess voltage away from sensitive equipment, preventing damage or malfunction. They are typically installed in parallel with the equipment they are protecting.
Overvoltage absorbers work by providing a low-impedance path for the surge current to flow through. They are designed to have a higher voltage rating than the equipment they are protecting, allowing them to absorb the excess voltage without damaging themselves.
There are different types of overvoltage absorbers available, including metal oxide varistors (MOVs), gas discharge tubes (GDTs), and silicon avalanche diodes (SADs). Each type has its own characteristics and is suitable for different applications.
In summary, overvoltage absorbers are essential components in electrical and electronic systems to protect equipment from voltage surges. They help ensure the reliable operation and longevity of sensitive devices by diverting excess voltage away from them.