Application and safety issues for transient voltage surge suppressors

This paper is intended as a guide to users and manufacturers of transient v oltage surge suppressor devices based on metal-oxide varistor semiconductor s. Many current designs and applications can result in safety problems, inc luding short circuits, explosions, and energized panels and grounding condu ctors. If the recommendations contained in this paper are followed, then el ectrical system safety and reliability will be enhanced. The subjects of fu sing, connections, grounding, and component compatibility are explored as t hey pertain to surge suppressor design and application.