Ferraz Shawmut, a global leader in the field of circuit protection, announces the availability of its new UL 1449 Third Edition approved Surge-Trap® Surge Protective Device (SPD) product line. Surge-Trap® with TPMOV® technology inside doesn’t require the use of additional overcurrent protection, and offers modular style IP-20 grade “finger-safe” protection. It mounts easily on a DIN rail to safeguard critical electrical system components from the deleterious effects of transient overvoltages. Industrial control equipment has evolved into complex electronics-based systems, making components increasingly susceptible to transient overvoltages that can create significant downtime, and equipment replacement and repair costs. Ferraz Shawmut designed the Surge-Trap® SPD specifically for point-of-use overvoltage protection in industrial power applications. The SPD diverts high-energy power away from a load by providing a lower impedance path to common point earth ground. In addition to the benefits of its TPMOV® surge suppression technology, Surge-Trap® meets the test requirements in the UL 1449 Third Edition standard for SPD products. Any product that fails to comply with the new standard by September 2009 can no longer be manufactured and used. From panel builders to end-users, industry professionals should be aware of these changes to ensure that today’s product purchases will meet tomorrow’s requirements. “Being one of the first to get the UL third edition listing for DIN-rail SPDs shows our commitment to providing safe, innovative products that meet the most current industry standards,” said Piyush Saxena, Product Line Manager for Surge Protective Devices at Ferraz Shawmut. “It’s estimated that nearly 80 percent of today’s facility overvoltage problems are caused by other equipment and power disturbances within the plant. Installing SPDs can significantly reduce downtime losses, improving system productivity and reliability. This offers an advanced solution for plant electricians, engineers and electrical product OEMs.” Surge-Trap® SPDs are approved for Type 1 and 2 applications, including AC/DC power distribution, high-voltage power supplies, telecommunications equipment, PLC applications, electronic motor controllers and starters, medical equipment, and UPS and security systems. With features for both visual status and remote signaling indication, the Surge-Trap® SPD suits system voltages from 120V to 600V and MCOV rated 180V to 550V. It has a 100kA Short Circuit Current Rating (SCCR) and 20kA 8/20µs surge capacity rating per mode. Agency approvals include UL 1449, 3rd Edition, ANSI/IEEE C62.41 and IEC 61643. Multiple configurations are available, with DIN-rail or direct panel mounting.
