What distinguishes older surge arresters from metal oxide surge arresters in construction?

The distinguishing feature of metal oxide surge arresters compared to older surge arresters is that metal oxide arresters utilize blocks of zinc oxide as their main component for clamping overvoltage. Zinc oxide has excellent nonlinear resistance properties, which allows it to handle high surge currents effectively while maintaining a low clamping voltage. This makes metal oxide arresters not only more effective in protecting systems from surges but also more compact in design.

Older surge arresters, such as those containing silicon carbide, do not utilize the same material properties and can be bulkier and less efficient in comparison. The reliance on zinc oxide has helped revolutionize the field of surge protection by offering better performance and reliability in various electrical systems.

Understanding this feature helps appreciate the advancements in surge protection technology and the significance of material properties in electrical equipment.