Analysis of Behavior of Surge Arresters in Distribution Circuits

Summary form only given. The overhead distribution lines usually have a low insulation level and its grounding systems are simple. This makes them high vulnerable to lightning over voltages. The common practice to protect these distribution lines is to use surge arresters, which should have the ability to respond effectively to the presence of discharges with high energy. This paper presents the evaluation of surge arresters in a distribution circuit in Merida-Venezuela, through the electromagnetic transient analysis program ATP / EMTP. Finally, the possibility of using a guard wire in order to reduce the effect that lightning produces in this distribution system is proposed. In both cases, the lightning output rate was evaluated, finding very good results.