What is a transient voltage surge?

A transient voltage surge refers to a short, high voltage spike that occurs in an electrical system. These surges can be caused by various factors such as lightning strikes, power outages, the sudden shutdown of large machines, or switching activities within the electrical network. Unlike a steady increase in current or a constant drop in voltage, a transient surge is brief—lasting only a few microseconds to milliseconds—but can have a significant impact on electrical equipment, potentially causing damage if the equipment is not properly protected.

Understanding the nature of transient voltage surges is crucial for designing effective electrical protection systems that can shield sensitive devices from potential overvoltage conditions. Effective surge protection devices are essential in safeguarding electronics and electrical infrastructure from these sudden spikes that can lead to failures or malfunctions.