Understanding Spike Voltage: Key Equipment Metrics

Peak voltage refers to a sudden voltage peak in the power system. Its duration is relatively short. The waveform usually shows the characteristics of sharp rise and rapid decline, and the amplitude is usually higher than the normal operating voltage.

To better understand spike voltage, let's dig into what causes it. These reasons vary, but here are a few common ones:

1. Lightning strikes: Lightning activity is one of the common causes of voltage spikes. When lightning strikes the ground or nearby objects, a large amount of charge is generated, causing instantaneous high voltages in the power system.

2. Switching operations: Switching operations in the power system may also cause the occurrence of voltage spikes. When the switch is turned on or off, electromagnetic shock and oscillation will occur due to the presence of inductance and capacitance, causing spike voltages.

3. Power equipment failure: Power equipment failure, such as transformer failure, line short circuit, etc., is also an important cause of peak voltage. The fault causes the normal transmission of electric energy, resulting in sudden voltage changes and the occurrence of voltage spikes.

Measurement methods for spike voltages are critical in order to effectively assess their impact on power equipment and systems. Here are several common spike voltage measurement methods:

1. Use a peak meter: A peak meter is an instrument specially designed to measure peak voltages. It can directly read the peak value of the spike voltage and provide accurate measurement results.

2. Use an oscilloscope: An oscilloscope can also be used to measure spike voltages. By connecting the circuit to an oscilloscope, the waveform of the spike voltage can be observed and recorded to obtain information such as its amplitude and duration.

3. Data Logger: A data logger is a portable device that can be used to monitor and record voltage spikes over long periods of time. It can automatically measure and record various parameters of the spike voltage for subsequent analysis and evaluation.

Spike voltage has certain effects on power systems and equipment. The following are some common effects:

1. Equipment damage: Peak voltage may cause damage to electrical equipment. High voltage will impact the insulation system of the equipment, damage the insulation material or cause breakdown, thereby destroying the normal operation of the equipment.

2. Data loss or corruption: Voltage spikes may cause data loss or corruption. In computer systems and data storage devices, sudden high voltages may interfere with the data transmission and storage process, resulting in data loss or damage.

3. System failure: Peak voltage may cause power system failure. When the voltage suddenly rises and exceeds the limit that the equipment can withstand, equipment may fail, protective devices may trigger, or the entire system may even fail.

4. Signal interference: Voltage spikes may interfere with signal transmission. In communication systems or control systems, sudden high voltages may be introduced into signal lines through electromagnetic coupling or inductive coupling, resulting in signal quality degradation or transmission errors.

By understanding the causes of spike voltages, how they are measured, and their possible effects, we can better take measures to protect power equipment and systems to ensure their stable operation. This also emphasizes the importance of peak voltage management in power engineering.