NRS039-1

© SABS.
This non-printable standard is exclusively for approved users of the SABS’ Complete Collection of Standards and Related Documents.
The standard must reside on an internal network or intranet and may only be used for reference purposes in compliance with SABS
copyright rules. The standard or parts thereof may not be distributed in any form without permission from the SABS.
ISBN 978-0-626-21293-3
NRS 039-1:2008
Edition 2
SURGE ARRESTERS FOR USE IN

DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS
Part 1: Guide for the application

of gapless metal-oxide surge
arresters
This document is not a South African National Standard.
N R S
© SABS. This non-printable standard is exclusively for approved users of the SABS’ Complete Collection of Standards and Related Documents.
This specification is issued by

the Standardization Section, Eskom,
on behalf of the
User Group given in the foreword.
Table of changes
Change No. Date Text affected
Correspondence to be directed to Printed copies obtainable from
The NRS Projects Manager The SABS Standards Division

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by the SABS Standards Division
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NRS 039-1:2008
Foreword
This part of NRS 039 was prepared on behalf of the Electricity Supply Liaison Committee (ESLC)
and approved by it for use by the supply authorities and other interested parties. This part of
NRS 039 is based on various IEC publications, Eskom specifications and other national and
international documents.
This part of NRS 039 was prepared by a working group which, at the time of publication, comprised
the following members:
B de Jager Bloemfontein Electricity Department

R Dhrochand eThekwini Electricity
J J G Dreyer Ekurhuleni Municipality
J Graham City of Cape Town
G Kingston Citypower
R Theron Distribution Technology, Eskom, IARC
V Sewchand (Project Leader) Technology Standardization, IARC
This part of NRS 039 supersedes NRS 039-1:1999 (edition1.1).
NRS 039 consists of the following parts, under the general title Surge arresters for use in
distribution systems:
Part 1: Guide for the application of gapless metal-oxide surge arresters.
Part 2: Distribution class, gapless metal-oxide surge arresters.
Annex A is for information only.
Introduction
This part of NRS 039 has been prepared to assist designers of medium-voltage distribution
networks in the selection and application of metal-oxide surge arresters used to protect
transformers and other electrical equipment intended for use at voltages of up to 44 kV. This part of
NRS 039 should be read in conjunction with SANS 60099-4.
There are many methods that can be used to protect electrical equipment from switching and
lightning overvoltages, such as reducing the line insulation, introducing spark gaps or installing
surge arresters.
The preferred method is towards the use of gapless metal-oxide surge arresters because they have
good characteristics regarding
a) lower clamping voltages (i.e. lower protective level);
b) higher energy ratings; and
c) no follow-through power-frequency current.
Keywords
MV distribution systems, insulation co-ordination, metal-oxide surge arresters, application guide.
1 NRS 039-1:2008
Contents
Page
1 Scope .......................................................................................................................................... 3
2 Normative references ................................................................................................................. 3
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviations ......................................................................................... 3
4 Selection and application of gapless metal-oxide surge arresters ............................................ 7
4.1 General ............................................................................................................................... 7

4.2 Design ................................................................................................................................. 7
4.3 Identification and classification ........................................................................................... 13
4.4 Insulation co-ordination ...................................................................................................... 16
4.5 Location of surge arresters ................................................................................................. 17
4.6 Wiring of surge arresters .................................................................................................... 23
4.7 Selection of the surge arrester ........................................................................................... 25
4.8 Application in specific cases ............................................................................................... 29
5 Tests ............................................................................................................................................ 29
5.1 General ............................................................................................................................... 29

5.2 Type tests ........................................................................................................................... 29
5.3 Acceptance tests ................................................................................................................ 29
5.4 Routine tests ....................................................................................................................... 30
5.5 Test details .......................................................................................................................... 30
6 Typical information that is to be given in enquiries and tenders ............................................... 30
Annex A (informative) Flow diagram for the selection of surge arresters ....................................... 31
Bibliography ..................................................................................................................................... 32
2 NRS 039-1:2008
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3 NRS 039-1:2008
SURGE ARRESTERS FOR USE IN DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS

Part 1: Guide for the application of gapless metal-oxide surge
arresters
1 Scope
This part of NRS 039 covers the selection and application of gapless metal-oxide surge arresters
for use in medium-voltage distribution systems to protect electrical equipment connected to these
systems. The choice of the arrester and its application depend upon the basic insulation level (BIL)
of the system, and the equipment that is to be protected.
NOTE 1 The selection of protection methods against overvoltages is based upon economics, taking into
account the assessed probability of an overvoltage exceeding withstand capacities and the effects of a
disruptive flashover.
NOTE 2 The positioning of surge arresters on the low-voltage side of transformers is also recommended
under certain conditions.
NOTE 3 A medium-voltage distribution system is considered to be a system that has a nominal voltage that
exceeds 1 kV but does not exceed 44 kV.
NOTE 4 A flow diagram for the selection of surge arresters is given in annex A.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For
dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the
referenced document (including any amendments) applies. Information on currently valid national
and international standards can be obtained from the SABS Standards Division.
IEC 60071-1, Insulation co-ordination — Part 1: Definitions, principles and rules.
SANS 1019, Standard voltages, currents and insulation levels for electricity supply.
SANS 60099-4/IEC 60099-4, Surge arresters — Part 4: Metal-oxide surge arresters without gaps
for a.c. systems.
SANS 60270/ IEC 60270, High voltage test techniques — Partial discharge measurements.
SANS 60815/IEC 60815, Guide for the selection of insulators in respect of polluted conditions.
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviations

3.1 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this part of NRS 039, the following terms and definitions apply
basic insulation level

BIL
specific insulation level in accordance with which the complete system (including the line pole
insulation to earth at every pole, the switchgear, the line isolators, the reclosers, and the
substations connected to the system, including their transformers) is designed and constructed
NOTE Basic insulation level is expressed in kilovolts.
NRS 039-1:2008 4
conventional switching (lightning) impulse withstand voltage

peak value of a switching (lightning) impulse test voltage at which an insulation shall not show any
disruptive discharge when subjected to a specified number of applications of this impulse under
specified conditions
NOTE This concept applies particularly to non-self-restoring insulations.
disconnector
ground lead disconnector
GLD
device on a surge arrester that will separate the earth tail connection from the arrester when the
power-frequency current that flows through the arrester exceeds a specific value
earth fault factor

EFF
at a given location of a three-phase system, and for a given system configuration, the ratio of the
highest r.m.s. phase-to-earth power-frequency voltage on a healthy phase during a fault to earth
that affects one or more phases at any point on the system to the r.m.s. phase-to-earth frequency
voltage, which would be obtained at the given location in the absence of any such fault
energy absorption capacity

maximum amount of energy that an arrester can absorb without its thermal stability being adversely
affected
NOTE Energy is expressed in kilojoules per kilovolt of rated voltage.
flashover
disruptive discharge over a solid surface
gapless arrester
arrester that has no integrated series or parallel spark gaps
high current impulse of an arrester

peak value of discharge current that has a 4/10 µs impulse shape, which is used to test the stability
of the arrester on direct lightning strokes
highest voltage for equipment

Um
highest r.m.s. phase-to-phase voltage for which the equipment is designed in respect of its
insulation as well as other characteristics that relate to this voltage in the relevant equipment
standards
insulation co-ordination
selection of the dielectric strength of equipment in relation to the voltages, which can appear on the
system for which the equipment is intended, and taking into account the service environment and
the characteristics of the available protective devices
lightning (or switching) impulse protective level

maximum permissible peak voltage value of the terminals of a protective device subjected to
lightning (or switching) impulses under specific conditions
maximum continuous operating voltage

MCOV
Uc
highest r.m.s. power-frequency voltage than an arrester can withstand continuously
metal-oxide varistor
MOV
highly non-linear varistor that has a high impedance at power-frequency voltage and a very low
impedance to overvoltages that exceed the maximum continuous operating voltage
5 NRS 039-1:2008
nominal discharge current

peak value of lightning current impulse used to classify an arrester
nominal voltage of a system

suitable approximate value of voltage used to designate or identify a system
overvoltage
any voltage, between one phase and earth or between phase conductors, that has a peak value
exceeding the corresponding peak value of the highest voltage for equipment
pressure relief rated current

continuous current through the arrester that will cause the pressure relief device to operate, thus
relieving the internal pressure inside the arrester and preventing violent shattering of the housing
protective level of a protective device

PL
UPL
highest peak value that should not be exceeded at the terminals of a protective device when
switching impulses and lightning impulses of standard shapes and rated values are applied under
specified conditions
puncture
disruptive discharge through a solid
per unit voltage (phase to earth)

theoretical unit of voltage equal to the peak value of the maximum system voltage with reference to
earth
NOTE 1 p.u. = (Um 2) / 3 kV
rated impulse withstand voltage

prescribed peak value of the (switching/lightning) impulse withstand voltage that characterizes the
insulation of an item of equipment as regards the withstand tests
rated insulation level

set of standard withstand voltages that characterize the dielectric strength of the insulation
rated voltage of an arrester

maximum permissible r.m.s. value of power-frequency voltage between an arrester’s terminals at
which the arrester is designed to operate correctly under temporary overvoltage conditions as
established in the operating duty tests
NOTE 1 The rated voltage is used as a reference parameter for the specification of operating characteristics.
NOTE 2 The rated voltage as defined in this part of NRS 039-1 is the 10 s power-frequency voltage that is
used in the operating duty test after high-current or long-duration impulses. Tests used to establish the voltage
rating in SANS 60099-1, and also in some national standards, involve the application of repetitive impulses at
nominal current with power-frequency voltage applied. Attention is drawn to the fact that these two methods
that are used to establish the rating do not necessarily produce equivalent values. (The resolution of this
discrepancy is under consideration.)
reference current of an arrester

peak value (the higher peak value of the two polarities if the current is asymmetrical) of the resistive
component of a power-frequency current that is used to determine the reference voltage of the
arrester
NOTE Depending on the nominal discharge current or the line discharge class (or both) of the arrester, the
reference current will be typically in the range 0,05 mA to 1,0 mA per square centimetre of disc area for single
column arresters.
NRS 039-1:2008 6
reference voltage of an arrester

Uref
peak value of the power-frequency voltage divided by √⎯2 , that is applied to an arrester to obtain the
reference current
NOTE 1 The reference voltage of a multi-unit arrester is the sum of the reference voltages of the individual
units.
NOTE 2 Measurement of the reference voltage is necessary for the selection of a correct test sample in the
operating duty test.
residual voltage
discharge voltage
voltage that is maintained between the arrester terminals during the passage of discharge current,
and that determines the protective characteristics of the arrester
self-restoring insulation
insulation that completely recovers its insulating properties after disruptive discharge
solidly earthed neutral system

system the neutral point(s) of which is (are) earthed direct
temporary overvoltage
TOV
oscillatory phase-to-earth or phase-to-phase overvoltage at a given location in a system, of
relatively long duration and that is undamped or only weakly damped
NOTE Temporary overvoltages usually originate from switching operations or faults (for example load
rejection, single-phase faults) or from non-linearities (for example ferro-resonance effects, harmonics). They
may be characterized by their amplitude, their oscillation frequencies and by their total duration or their
decrement.
thermal runaway of an arrester

situation, when the sustained power loss of an arrester exceeds the thermal dissipation capability of
the housing and connections, leading to a cumulative increase in the temperature of the resistor
elements culminating in failure
thermal stability of an arrester

situation, when the arrester is thermally stable if, after an operating duty causing temperature rise,
the temperature of the resistor elements decreases with time, when the arrester is energized at
specific continuous operating voltage at specified ambient conditions
transient overvoltage
short duration overvoltage of a few milliseconds or less, oscillatory or non-oscillatory, usually highly
damped
unit of an arrester
completely housed part of an arrester that may be connected in series or in parallel with other units
to construct an arrester of higher voltage or current rating
NOTE A unit of an arrester is not necessarily a section of an arrester.
varistor
resistor the resistance of which is dependent on voltage applied across its end terminals
withstand voltage
value of the test voltage that is to be applied under specified conditions in a withstand test, during
which a specified number of disruptive discharges are tolerated
7 NRS 039-1:2008
3.2 Abbreviations
ABC: aerial bundled conductor
BIL: basic insulation level
CT: current transformer
CVT: capacitor voltage transformer
EFF: earth fault factor
GIS: gas-insulated sunstation
GLD: ground lead disconnector
MCOV: maximum continuous operating voltage
MOV: metal-oxide varistor
OHL: overhead line
PL: protective level
SIL: switching insulation level
TOV: temporary overvoltage
4 Selection and application of gapless metal-oxide surge arresters

4.1 General
4.1.1 Replacement of damaged arresters
Most surges in distribution systems are a result of induced voltages where all three phases are
affected and the three arresters are subjected to the same degree of stress. For practical
purposes,
if a single arrester fails (the weakest of the three), all three surge arresters should be
simultaneously replaced. The two apparently “good” arresters should then be taken back to the
depot and tested to ascertain whether or not they have failed. This procedure can save much time
and effort, especially when the arresters are located in a remote area.
4.1.2 Ingress of moisture

Many failures of surge arresters have been attributed to the ingress of moisture at the end fittings,
during thermal cycling. So, when a surge arrester is being selected, particular attention should be
paid to the sealing of the end fittings with a flexible and weather-resistant sealant (see 4.2.1 (a))
and 4.2.1 (f)).
4.2 Design
4.2.1 Design features
4.2.1.1 General
Surge arrester housing materials can be divided into two main groups i.e. ceramic and polymer.
The typical design features of these the two groups are discussed in 4.2.1.2 and 4.2.1.3 and shown
in figures 1 and 2.
NRS 039-1:2008 8
4.2.1.2 Group 1: Surge arresters with ceramic housings (see figure 1)
Surge arresters with ceramic housings have the following design features:
a) a weatherproof housing, for example porcelain or glass;
b) MOV discs;
c) a pressure sensitive diaphragm, in the case of a porcelain housed arrester, that allows any
dangerous internal pressure build-up to vent to the atmosphere and provides a visual indication
if the arrester is internally damaged;
d) a heavy coil spring made of spring steel to maintain a high pressure on the MOV discs;
e) a copper strap to shunt the coil spring and to reduce the resistance across it (optional);
f) a gasket seal to ensure that moisture does not enter the interior of the arrester;
g) an upper electrical connection terminal;
h) an identification plate to carry pertinent information;
i) a lower electrical connection terminal;
j) a desiccant for moisture control;
k) a ground lead disconnector; and
l) a steel mounting bracket.
9 NRS 039-1:2008
Figure 1 — Schematic design features of a typical ceramic-housed metal-oxide surge

arrester
NRS 039-1:2008 10
4.2.1.3 Group 2: Surge arresters with polymer housings (see figure 2)
Surge arresters with polymer housings have the following design features:
a) an upper electrical connection terminal;
b) a top metal cap with nameplate information;
c) metal electrodes;
d) MOV discs;
e) a bottom metal cap;
f) a ground lead disconnector;
g) a lower electrical connection terminal;
h) a resin-bonded fibre-glass wrapping;
i) a weatherproof housing, for example, a silicone-rubber, ethylene propylene diene monomer,

enhanced silicon polymer, etc. housing; and
j) an insulated mounting bracket.
NOTE Pressure build-up in polymer-housed arresters is relieved through rupturing of the polymer material. A
separate pressure relief device is therefore not required.
11 NRS 039-1:2008
Figure 2 — Schematic design features of a typical polymer-housed metal-oxide surge

arrester
NRS 039-1:2008 12
4.2.2 Design parameters

4.2.2.1 The design of a metal-oxide surge arrester is based upon the following parameters:
a) the maximum continuous operating voltage (MCOV) of the system at the point under
consideration;
b) the protective level (UPL) that a surge arrester mounted on or adjacent to equipment has to
maintain and that is below the impulse withstand voltage of the equipment; and
c) the energy that is to be dissipated in the arrester.
4.2.2.2 Figure 3 shows the typical voltage/current non-linear characteristic for a metal-oxide surge
arrester and, in particular, the low continuous current that flows at the maximum continuous
operating voltage (Uc). The turn-up region is the area where there is a more linear relationship
between current and voltage. The arrester would operate in this area during the discharge of very
high surge currents only.
Log of current through surge arrester
Figure 3 — Voltage/current characteristics of a 10 kA metal-oxide surge arrester
13 NRS 039-1:2008
4.2.2.3 Figure 4 shows the effects of multiple temporary overvoltages on the thermal stability
characteristics of a metal-oxide surge arrester. This figure shows that:
a) the longer the duration of the temporary overvoltage, the higher the temperature of the MOV
discs;
b) if several overvoltages occur with a suitable interval between them, the MOV discs have time to
cool to a stable temperature; and
c) if the overvoltages occur in too quick a succession or for too long a duration, the MOV discs
can reach their thermal stability point and thermal runaway could occur, causing a complete
failure of the arrester.
Time duration
Figure 4 — Thermal stability characteristics of a metal-oxide surge arrester
4.2.2.4 Arresters have to be suitably rated to cope with successive overvoltages without thermal
breakdown. If the energy rating or the MCOV is too low, temporary overvoltages at supply
frequency will cause thermal runaway and arrester failure.
4.3 Identification and classification

4.3.1 Identification
4.3.1.1 A metal-oxide surge arrester should be identified by the following minimum information that
should appear on a nameplate permanently attached to the arrester:
a) the maximum continuous operating voltage (r.m.s.);
b) the rated voltage (see 4.3.2.2);
NRS 039-1:2008 14
c) the nominal discharge current (see 4.3.2.1);
d) the pressure relief rated r.m.s. current, in kiloamperes (if fitted);
e) the manufacturer’s name or trade mark;
f) the model and serial number; and
g) the year of manufacture.
4.3.1.2 If possible, the following information should also be included:
a) the line discharge class (see annex E of SANS 60099-4);
b) the contamination withstand level of the enclosure (see 4.3.3); and
c) the energy absorption capacity, in kilojoules per kilovolt.
4.3.2 Classification
4.3.2.1 Surge arresters are classified by their standard nominal 8/20 µs discharge currents as
stated in table 1 of SANS 60099-4:2007, and fall into the ranges and classifications shown in table
1.
Table 1 — Current capacity and classification of surge arresters

1 2 3 4 5
Discharge current Class
capacity For use in Distribution Heavy duty Substation
A secondary LV class distribution class
equipment class
1 500a X
2 500 X
5 000 X
10 000 X X
20 000 X
a
This capacity is under consideration.
4.3.2.2 Standard rated r.m.s. voltages in kilovolts are specified in voltage steps and are detailed in
table 2.
Table 2 — Steps of rated voltage
1 2
Range of rated r.m.s. voltage Steps of rated r.m.s. voltage
kV kV
<3 Under consideration
3 to 30 1
> 30 to 54 3
4.3.3 Contamination withstand level

The appropriate creepage distances have to be selected in accordance with the applicable pollution
conditions. Table 3, which is based on SANS 60815, shall be used to assess the required
creepage distance for an arrester.
15 NRS 039-1:2008
Table 3 — Pollution levels and creepage distances
1 2 3
Pollution Examples of typical environments Minimal nominal
level specific creepage
distance
a
mm/kV
Light – Areas without industries and with a low density of houses that are 16
equipped with heating plants.
– Areas with a low density of industries or houses but that are
subjected to frequent wind or rainfall (or both).
– Agricultural areas b
– Mountainous areas.
All these areas shall be situated at least 10 km from the coast and
shall not be exposed to wind direct from the sea c.
Medium – Areas with industries that do not produce particularly polluting 20
smoke or with an average density of houses that are equipped with
heating plants (or both).
– Areas with a high density of houses or industries (or both) but that
are subjected to frequent wind or rainfall (or both).
– Areas that are exposed to wind from the sea but that are at least
several kilometres from the coast c.
Heavy – Areas with a high density of industries and suburbs of large cities 25
with a high density of heating plants that cause pollution.
– Areas that are close to the sea or that are in any case exposed to
relatively strong wind from the sea c.
Very heavy – Areas, generally of moderate extent, that are subjected to 31
conductive dust and to industrial smoke that produces particularly
thick conductive deposits.
– Areas, generally of moderate extent, that are very close to the
coast and that are exposed to sea-spray or to very strong wind and
wind that carries pollution from the sea.
– Desert areas, that are characterized by no rain for long periods,
that are exposed to strong wind that carries sand and salt, and that
are subjected to regular condensation.
NOTE 1 In very slightly polluted areas, specific nominal creepage distances lower than 16 mm/kV can be
used, depending on service experience. A limit of 12 mm/kV seems to be a lower limit.
NOTE 2 In the case of exceptionally severe pollution, a specific nominal creepage distance of 31 mm/kV
might not be adequate. Depending on service experience or laboratory test results (or both), a higher value
of specific creepage distance may be used, but in some instances the practicability of washing or greasing
might have to be considered.
a
The ratio of the leakage distance is measured between phase and earth over the r.m.s. phase-to-phase
value of the highest voltage for the equipment (see IEC 60071-1).
b
The use of sprayed fertilizers or the burning of crop residues can lead to a higher pollution level owing to
dispersion by wind.
c
Distances from the sea depend on the topography of the coastal area and on the extreme wind conditions.
NRS 039-1:2008 16
4.4 Insulation co-ordination

4.4.1 Insulation co-ordination is achieved when the insulation strength of all the components of the
electrical system can adequately withstand the electrical stresses of service within selected
reliability margins.
4.4.2 Stresses on electrical equipment include normal voltages and temporary overvoltages at the
supply frequency and transient overvoltages caused by switching or lightning.
4.4.3 Transient overvoltages caused by switching are not important in most distribution systems
because the surge voltages are below the withstand levels associated with standard operating and
impulse voltages. Switching overvoltages have to be considered where circuit resonance leads to
voltage reinforcement at switching surge frequencies, such as in some industrial networks or when
capacitor banks are being switched.
4.4.4 In South Africa, lightning is the most significant cause of impulse overvoltages in distribution
systems and is the most important determinant in their insulation co-ordination.
4.4.5 In practice, switching transients are usually ignored and distribution system components are
designed to withstand the following three conditions of electrical stress:
a) the normal and maximum system operating voltages at supply frequency;
b) temporary supply frequency overvoltages up to the rated short-duration power-frequency with-

stand voltage; and
c) lightning impulse overvoltages up to the rated withstand level.
4.4.6 Table 4 shows the rated lightning impulse voltage (the same as BIL) at site altitude for
equipment in exposed installations in accordance with list 3 in SANS 1019. The standard lightning
impulse test voltage of IEC 60071-1 has a 1,2 µs rise time to peak value, and a 50 µs decay time to
half-value. The peak value should be taken as that in column 3 of table 4.
NOTE For more detailed information on standard voltage shapes, see IEC 60060-1.
Table 4 — Rated lightning impulse withstand peak voltages
1 2 3
Nominal system Highest r.m.s. voltage Rated lightning impulse
r.m.s. voltage for equipment (Um) withstand peak voltage
(BIL)
kV kV kV
2,2 2,4 40
3,3 3,6 45
6,6 7,2 75
11 12 95
22 24 150
33 36 200
44 52 a 250
NOTE 1 The data in column 3 are extracted from list 3 of SANS 1019.
a
Where creepage distances are based on millimetres per kilovolt, a value of 48 kV
should be used.
17 NRS 039-1:2008
4.4.7 The optimum impulse insulation level depends on the expected incidence of impulse
overvoltages, the quantity and type of equipment connected to the system and the location and
quality of devices that are used to protect the equipment against overvoltages. SANS 1019 takes
into account the high incidence of lightning in South Africa, but equipment rated for the nominal
system voltage could be found to have been rated for the recommended IEC impulse withstand
voltage. The apparent disadvantage of the lower rating can be offset by protecting the equipment
with surge arresters selected for the higher level.
4.4.8 The basic insulation level (BIL) of the system will normally be that of the SANS 1019 impulse
withstand voltage given in table 4, but might have to be lowered as stated in 4.4.7 to accommodate
equipment rated for the IEC impulse withstand voltage only.
4.5 Location of surge arresters

4.5.1 Surge arresters
Surge arresters are required at surge impedance transition points, where there is a high probability
that overvoltages will occur in the distribution system. They should be installed between phase and
earth and should be located as close as possible to the equipment that is being protected.
Surge arresters should not be installed between phases since, in general, when an induced surge
occurs, the phases rise in voltage together. In such cases the insulation between phases is not
stressed.
The single-line diagrams in figure 5 illustrate the recommended location of surge arresters as
described in 4.5.2 to 4.5.8.
NRS 039-1:2008 18
Key
A MV cable that forms part of an MV distribution line.
B Distribution transformer feed to LV cable (see 4.5.3 and 4.5.5).
C Distribution transformer feed to LV distribution line (see 4.5.4 and 4.5.5).
D Outdoor or indoor substation with switchgear (see 4.5.6).
NOTE Arresters should be applied to all three phases.
Figure 5 — Surge arrester locations
19 NRS 039-1:2008
4.5.2 MV cables
Where cables are connected to an overhead line (OHL), a lightning surge results in a reflected
wave and a transmitted wave, where the wave amplitudes depend on the surge impedances of the
line and of the cable.
MV cables that form part of MV distribution lines should be protected at both ends with phase-to-
earth surge arresters.
Cable sheaths should be earthed at both ends. If this is not possible because of a reduction of the
cable load capability, a phase-to-earth arrester should be placed at the unearthed end. The
withstand strength of the sheath is not well defined and is not assured by any standardized test.
Switching off a reactor or transformer (such as a furnace transformer) can produce overvoltages
that exceed the withstand voltage of the transformer or reactor. Surge arresters installed on the MV
incoming feeder will cover these temporary overvoltages up to 1,25 times the highest system
voltage.
4.5.3 LV cables
Surge arresters are not required on LV circuits that comprise cable feeders. Low-voltage ABC may
be considered as cable.
4.5.4 LV distribution lines

Surge arresters are required, between phase and earth, on the source terminals of LV distribution
lines of length exceeding 100 m. The source terminals are generally the LV terminals of distribution
transformers.
4.5.5 Distribution transformers

Where a distribution line feeds a transformer (substation type or pole type), surge arresters should
be installed from phase to earth and should be located as close to the transformer MV terminals as
possible. This usually means mounting them on the transformer tank, as stated in table 5.
LV surge arresters may be installed between the transformer (delta or star connected) LV phase
terminals and earth, since long-duration surges of smaller magnitude on the LV system (perhaps as
small as 3 kV) could transfer sufficient voltage to the HV windings to damage their insulation.
Details of typical mounting arrangements for the mounting of surge arresters on transformer tanks
are shown in figure 6.
Table 5 – Maximum protective distances
1 2
Nominal system voltage Maximum protective distance
kV m
11 < 1 (on equipment tank)
22 < 1 (on equipment tank)
33 3
44 5
NRS 039-1:2008 20
NOTE In order to keep the surge impedance as low as possible, the

equipment (autorecloser, sectionalizer, transformer, etc.) and arrester
earth connections should be as short as possible, and both the number
and sharpness of bends in earth conductors should be kept to a
minimum.
21 NRS 039-1:2008
Figure 6 — Details for the mounting of surge arresters on transformer tanks
NRS 039-1:2008 22
4.5.6 Outdoor and indoor substations

Where a distribution line feeds a substation, surge arresters should be installed between phase and
earth and should be located as close as possible before the first piece of equipment (such as an
isolator, a current transformer or a circuit-breaker) on each feeder on the feeder side of this
equipment, because most lightning surges enter the substation through the feeders.
In substations, protection and metering devices that contain voltage-sensitive integrated circuits
have to be protected from overvoltages with suitable surge arresters on the PC boards. However,
the protection of electronic equipment is beyond the scope of this guide and the reader is referred
to NRS 042.
Although gas-insulated substations (GIS) are generally better protected than open-air substations
because they have a lower surge impedance, surge arresters still need to be installed. These
arresters can be placed inside the GIS, which will increase the GIS cost but will make external
surge arresters superfluous.
4.5.7 MV pole-mounted switchgear

Where an open circuit exists in pole-mounted equipment such as sectionalizers and auto-reclosers,
the travelling wavefront of a surge will double in voltage. Surge arresters installed at each side of
the open circuit will protect pole-mounted equipment against such surge reflections. This
particularly applies to distribution lines in rural areas where the line could be several kilometres long
and might run across open, high-altitude areas.
However, surge arresters are seldom applied to isolators on overhead lines because a flashover on
self-restoring insulation is acceptable. Also, most isolators are normally closed.
4.5.8 MV aerial bundled conductors (MV ABCs)

The frequency of direct lightning strikes to MV ABCs is similar to the frequency for bare conductor
lines. The induced voltage has no adverse effect, provided that the catenary and the screens are
electrically continuous and regularly earthed.
Surge arresters should be installed at every transformer and at transition points between bare
conductor overhead lines and MV ABCs.
4.5.9 Rotating machines

MV motors and generators usually have phase-to-neutral surge arresters installed as close as
possible to the machine terminals. The selection of these phase-to-neutral surge arresters and
their connection, should be done in consultation with the machine manufacturer.
23 NRS 039-1:2008
4.6 Wiring of surge arresters

4.6.1 Connections to surge arresters are normally made with conductors of similar cross-sectional
area to that of the phase conductor, but since lightning surges have a fast rise time, or have a high
frequency, most of the current flows along the surface of the conductor and for many applications
reduced conductor sizes could be used.
4.6.2 The surge arresters should be installed between each phase and earth, using crimped lug
terminations on the conductors. The earth conductor(s) and earth point in the ground have to be of
as low an impedance as possible (i.e. short and straight), to prevent the voltage across the earth
conductor from rising to dangerous levels during a lightning discharge. It is important that the surge
arresters be mounted as close as possible to the equipment they are protecting. Maximum
protective distances for different system voltages, measured from terminal to terminal, are given in
table 5.
4.6.3 A typical wiring arrangement for pole-mounted transformers is shown in figure 7, but ensure
that
a) in cases where a disconnector is used on the arrester and when the disconnector operates, the
earth tail of the arrester is of sufficiently flexible conducting material to allow the tail to drop
away without encroaching upon specified clearances; and
b) if the arrester disintegrates under fault conditions, the connecting lead to the live side of the
arrester will not move to a position in which specified clearances are reduced.
NRS 039-1:2008 24
25 NRS 039-1:2008
Figure 7 — Wiring of surge arresters on a pole-mounted transformer
4.7 Selection of the surge arrester

4.7.1 The ideal case
A surge arrester should limit all overvoltages to a given protective level (Upl) that is lower than the
withstand voltage of the equipment that is to be protected. The ideal arrester characteristics are
shown in figure 8.
Key
UPL Protective level
Ur Rated voltage of surge arresters
Um Highest voltage for equipment
Figure 8 — Ideal surge arrester characteristics
4.7.2 Practical case

4.7.2.1 The device that has characteristics closest to the ideal is a metal-oxide arrester with
characteristics as shown in figure 3.
4.7.2.2 The following parameters should be calculated for each case, and should be specified in
any enquiry:
a) the maximum continuous operating voltage (MCOV) – This is defined by the system
characteristics;
b) the residual voltage (or protective level) – This is a characteristic of a particular type or make of
arrester;
c) the nominal discharge current – This is defined in accordance with the lightning environment in
which the system operates;
d) the high current impulse withstand capability – The manufacturer normally tests to values
specified in SANS 60099-4, according to the nominal discharge current of the arrester; and
e) the temporary overvoltage withstand capability – This is a characteristic of a particular type of

make of arrester and is dependent upon the energy absorption capacity of the arrester.
NRS 039-1:2008 26
4.7.3 Worked example

4.7.3.1 Determine the MCOV for the arrester (Uc)
The MCOV should be the highest possible power frequency voltage that is likely to occur at the
surge arrester terminals (for example during a fault condition).
During a single line-to-earth fault, the voltage on the remaining healthy phases is (Um/ 3 ) × EFF
(where EFF is 1,4 for solidly earthed systems and EFF is 1,73 for non-solidly earthed systems).
For a typical distribution system that is non-solidly earthed:
a) for long fault clearing (>10 s): Uc = Um
Select an arrester that can withstand the relevant value of Uc and ensure that the protection level of
the arrester has a safety margin of 20 % to 25 % (see 4.7.3.2); and
b) for short fault clearing (< 10 s): Uc < Um
Select an arrester that will withstand the relevant value of Uc and ensure that the arrester will
survive the TOV (temporary overvoltage)(see 4.7.3.5).
4.7.3.2 Determine the residual voltage (or protective level)
NOTE The residual voltage is the same as the protective level Upl.
The residual voltage (or protective level) should have a safety Ci based on the BIL (see figure 9).
The safety margin is 20 % to 25 %, therefore Upl should not exceed 75 % to 80 % of the BIL. If the
value of Upl is more than 80 % of the BIL, select another type of arrester with a lower Upl but with
the same MCOV capability.
4.7.3.3 Determine the nominal discharge current
General experience in South Africa indicates that a rated nominal current of 10 kA is preferred.
However, in certain areas with low lightning ground flash densities, the use of 5 kA arresters could
be considered.
27 NRS 039-1:2008
Key
a Power frequency voltage
b Impulse voltage
TOV Temporary overvoltage because of a single-phase fault on a solidly earthed system and
equals 1,4 p.u
Ce System earthing fault factor
BIL Basic insulation level for lightning strikes (see 3.1)
Upl Lightning impulse protective level of the arrester
Ci Safety margin for lightning surges (20 % to 25 % of the BIL)
Figure 9 — Co-ordinating the insulation with the aid of a surge arrester
4.7.3.4 Determine the high current impulse withstand capability
The value of the high current impulse that should be used to test the stability of an arrester when it
is subjected to direct lightning strikes is given in SANS 60099-4, as follows:
a) 65 kA high current impulse for 5 kA nominal discharge current; and
b) 100 kA high current impulse for 10 kA nominal discharge current.
NOTE Ensure that the arrester will withstand the appropriate high current impulse. The manufacturer
normally carries out the necessary tests.
NRS 039-1:2008 28
4.7.3.5 Determine the TOV withstand capability
The TOV withstand capability is dependent upon the energy absorption capacity of the arrester.
Each manufacturer should have curves available to show the arrester survival time against
multiples of the power-frequency voltage that is applied to the arrester. An example of such a curve
is given in figure 10.
Figure 10 — Typical TOV withstand curve of a surge arrester
Example: When an arrester for a 33 kV system that is non-solidly earthed is being selected.
Um = 36 kV
EFF = 1,73
Uc = Um / 3
= 36 / 1.73
= 20,78
TOV = Uc × EFF
= 20,78 × 1,73
= 36,00 kV
Kt is defined as the ratio: TOV/Rated voltage of the arrester. Therefore, if an arrester with a rated
voltage of 33 kV is selected,
Kt = 36 / 33
= 1,1
In this case, figure 10 indicates an arrester survival time of 1 s. This would be insufficient if the fault
clearing time was 10 s. An arrester with a higher rated voltage should then be selected.
29 NRS 039-1:2008
If an arrester with a rated voltage of 36 kV is selected.
Kt = 36 / 36
= 1,0
In this case, figure 10 indicates an acceptable arrester survival time of 500 s. It will be necessary to
check whether this higher rated arrester will have a protective level with a sufficient safety margin
(see 4.7.3.2).
4.8 Application in specific cases

The following are typical abnormal service conditions that could require special consideration
regarding the manufacture or application of surge arresters and should be called to the attention of
the manufacturer:
a) altitudes above 1 000 m;
NOTE The standard maximum altitude used in South Africa is 1 800 m. The IEC standard is 1 000 m.
b) requirements for live washing;
c) high wind forces;
d) limited line clearances to conducting surfaces;
e) heavily polluted atmospheres;
f) series capacitors on lines;
g) connections to autotransformers;
h) a.c. traction circuits, especially single-phase traction circuits;
i) ambient temperatures that exceed 40 °C;
j) excessive exposure to moisture or steam;
k) heat sources near the arrester; and
l) explosive mixtures of dust, gas or fumes.
5 Tests
5.1 General
It is unlikely that the user will specify tests, since the selected arresters should be the
manufacturer’s standard product. The user will, however, be interested in seeing copies of type test
results.
5.2 Type tests

Type tests, as given in clause 8 of SANS 60099-4: 2007, may be required.
5.3 Acceptance tests

The following acceptance tests, detailed in 9.2 of SANS 60099-4: 2007, may be required:
a) measurement of power-frequency voltage on the complete arrester at the reference current

measured at the bottom of the arrester;
NRS 039-1:2008 30
b) measurement of the lightning impulse residual voltage on the complete arrester or arrester unit
as the nominal discharge current;
c) a partial discharge test at power-frequency voltage applied to the complete arrester or arrester
unit at its rated voltage for 10 s and then decreased to 1,05 times its continuous operating
voltage; and
d) when so agreed upon between the manufacturer and the purchaser, a special thermal stability
test, that consists of three separate tests carried out on samples of metal-oxide resistors taken
during manufacture.
5.4 Routine tests

The minimum requirement for routine tests that are to be carried out by the manufacturer should be:
a) measurement of the reference voltage (Uref);
b) a residual voltage test. This test is usually compulsory for arresters with a rated voltage above
1 kV. The test may be performed either on complete arresters, or on assembled arrester units
or on a sample comprising one or several resistor elements. The manufacturer shall specify a
suitable lightning impulse current between 0,01 and 2 times the nominal current at which the
residual voltage is measured. If not measured direct, the residual voltage of the complete
arrester is taken as the sum of the residual voltages of the resistor elements or of the individual
arrester units. The residual voltage for the complete arrester shall not exceed the value
specified by the manufacturer;
NOTE When 5 000 A and 2 500 A arresters of rating below 44 kV are supplied in volume, the residual voltage
test may be omitted in the routine tests, if agreed upon between the manufacturer and the purchaser.
c) the satisfactory absence of partial discharges and contact noise that shall be checked on each
unit by a suitable sensitive method adopted by the manufacturer (see SANS 60270);
d) for arrester units with a sealed housing, a leakage check on each unit; and
e) for multicolumn arresters, a current distribution test on all groups of parallel resistors. The
current impulse shall have a virtual front time of at least 7 µs.
5.5 Test details

Details of tests, test samples and test procedures are given in SANS 60099-4. See this standard
for further information.
6 Typical information that is to be given in enquiries and tenders

Details of typical information that should be supplied in enquiries and tenders are given in annex G
of SANS 60099-4:2007.
copyright rules. The standard or parts thereof may NRS
31not be distributed in any form without 039-1:2008
permission from the SABS.
Annex A
(informative)
Flow diagram for the selection of surge arresters
Highest r.m.s Peak operating Maximum continuous

phase-to-phase voltage operation voltages of
voltage for equipment Um arrester
Um 2 3
MCOV > Us
Temporary Rated insulation level

overvoltages TOV kV
Fault currents Type of overhead

construction
Lightining strokes / km 2 Calculation of

/year switching overvoltages
System basic
insulation level BIL
Shielding
Requirements
Lighting impulse Switching insulation

safety factor (min.1.25) level SIL
Lighting overvoltages
Lighting discharge
current
Select surge arrester Switching impulse
from catalogues safety factor
(min. 1,15)
Lightining discharge
Energy Resudual
energy at point of
absorption voltage
system to be protected
Enviromental needs;
altitude; pollution;
mechanical strength;
mass No
Suitable Suitable
No
Distance from arrester Yes Yes

to equipment
Required switching
Rated insulation level impulsive withstand
voltage
Required lighting No No
impulse withstand Accep-
voltage table
Yes Selected
arrester is
suitable
32 NRS 039-1:2008
Bibliography
Standards and specifications
IEC 60071-2, Insulation co-ordination – Part 2: Application guide.
NRS 042, Guide for the protection of electronic equipment against damaging transients.
SANS 780, Distribution transformers.
SANS 60060-1, High-voltage test techniques – Part 1: General definitions and test requirements.
SANS 60099-1/IEC 60099-1, Surge arresters – Part 1: Non-linear resistor type gapped surge
arresters for a.c. systems.
Other publications
CIGRE, Metal-oxide surge arresters in a.c. systems, articles in Electra Nos 128, 130 and 133,
Journal of CIGRE.
LAGESSE,B, GELDENHUYS HJ and VAN DER MERWE, C Lightning performance of aerial

bundled conductors, Electricity and Control, September 1993.
SAIEE, Insulation co-ordination of unshielded distribution lines from 1 kV to 36 kV. A report by

GAUNT CT, BRITTEN AC and GELDENHUYS HJ, prepared for the HVCC task force on the
lightning protection of distribution lines. (Available from the South African Institute of Electrical
Engineers (SAIEE)).
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SURGE ARRESTERS FOR USE IN

Part 1: Guide for the application

This document is not a South African National Standard.

This specification is issued by

Correspondence to be directed to Printed copies obtainable from

The NRS Projects Manager The SABS Standards Division

Printed in the Republic of South Africa

B de Jager Bloemfontein Electricity Department

This part of NRS 039 supersedes NRS 039-1:1999 (edition1.1).

Part 1: Guide for the application of gapless metal-oxide surge arresters.

Part 2: Distribution class, gapless metal-oxide surge arresters.

Annex A is for information only.

a) lower clamping voltages (i.e. lower protective level);

b) higher energy ratings; and

c) no follow-through power-frequency current.

2 Normative references ................................................................................................................. 3

3 Terms, definitions and abbreviations ......................................................................................... 3

4 Selection and application of gapless metal-oxide surge arresters ............................................ 7

4.1 General ............................................................................................................................... 7

5.1 General ............................................................................................................................... 29

6 Typical information that is to be given in enquiries and tenders ............................................... 30

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SURGE ARRESTERS FOR USE IN DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS

IEC 60071-1, Insulation co-ordination — Part 1: Definitions, principles and rules.

3 Terms, definitions and abbreviations

basic insulation level

NOTE Basic insulation level is expressed in kilovolts.

conventional switching (lightning) impulse withstand voltage

NOTE This concept applies particularly to non-self-restoring insulations.

earth fault factor

energy absorption capacity

NOTE Energy is expressed in kilojoules per kilovolt of rated voltage.

high current impulse of an arrester

highest voltage for equipment

lightning (or switching) impulse protective level

maximum continuous operating voltage

nominal discharge current

nominal voltage of a system

pressure relief rated current

protective level of a protective device

per unit voltage (phase to earth)

NOTE 1 p.u. = (Um 2) / 3 kV

rated impulse withstand voltage

rated insulation level

rated voltage of an arrester

reference current of an arrester

reference voltage of an arrester

solidly earthed neutral system

thermal runaway of an arrester

thermal stability of an arrester

NOTE A unit of an arrester is not necessarily a section of an arrester.

BIL: basic insulation level

CT: current transformer

CVT: capacitor voltage transformer

EFF: earth fault factor

GIS: gas-insulated sunstation

GLD: ground lead disconnector

MCOV: maximum continuous operating voltage

MOV: metal-oxide varistor

OHL: overhead line

PL: protective level

SIL: switching insulation level

TOV: temporary overvoltage