OEM FAQs
The following are frequently questions asked for OEM customers.
What is TVSS?
TVSS is an abbreviation for "transient voltage surge suppressor." A TVSS is a device that attenuates (reduces in magnitude) random, high energy, short duration electrical power anomalies caused by utilities, atmospheric phenomena, or inductive loads.
Such anomalies occur in the form of voltage and current spikes with a duration of less than half an ac cycle. These high energy power spikes can damage sensitive electronic equipment, such as computers, instrumentation, and process controllers.
Where are surge suppressors installed?
AC surge suppressors are typically installed in these three areas:
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at a utility service entrance for protection of an entire facility.
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in distribution panelboards and switchboards for protection of sensitive downstream loads;
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connected to a wall outlet for individual protection of a specific piece of equipment, such as a computer or solid-state controller
What features should be considered when selecting a surge suppressor?
Two important areas to consider during the selection of a surge suppressor are performance and safety. The performance of a surge suppressor is measured in surge current capacity and clamping voltage. Safety should also be a priority in this selection process. The individual suppression circuit should be fused to clear an inoperative MOV during an extreme transient event, and provide overcurrent protection for the surge suppressor during a fault condition.
What surge current capacity is required?
Surge current capacity is dependent on the application and the amount of required protection. The selection of the proper surge suppressor is not an exact science and cannot be scientifically calculated from a standard algorithm.
Questions to consider when specifying the proper surge current capacity for surge a surge suppressor include:
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What is the geographic location of the facility and its susceptibility to lightning?
(For example, Florida is a high-lightning area; California is a low-lightning area.)
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Is the facility in a rural or urban setting?
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Is the facility the tallest building around?
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Is the facility at the end of the utility grid?
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If it is an existing facility, what is its power quality history?
I am a Systems Integrator and build custom fabrications. What does APT offer that would protect my solutions?
We have a hard wired TVSS solution for every type of panelboard, switchgear, motorcontrol and PLC application. Within our line of products, we offer external, internal, modular and non-modular configurations as well. We also custom design.
Space is a concern, does APT offer solutions for DIN Rail applications?
Yes. APT offers a wide range of DIN Rail TVSS solutions. Our AC products range from 120V to 600V. In addition we also have a series of DC and low voltage DIN Rail surge suppressors as well.
Does APT offer TVSS products for renewable energy applications?
Yes. APT offers a variety of solutions that can accommodate both the needs of the Wind and Solar markets.
What are your standard lead-times?
Our normal ship date is no more than 10 days from the receipt of the purchase order on custom builds, and same day shipping for the most common modular and non-modular inventory units ordered before 3:00 pm EST.
Why would I buy from APT?
As a leading manufacturer of quality U.S. made products, our highly trained design engineers have designed TVSS products that are of high quality, low in cost and contain the highest level of performance and safety features! You are working directly with the manufacturer. Who knows our product better than we do!