Surge Arrester Module Segmented Electrode Tensile Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Surge arresters face a loss of contact pressure between varistor blocks due to uneven load distribution, leading to high tensile forces that can compromise their functionality, especially in multi-module configurations.
Innovation Solution
The surge arrester module incorporates electrically conductive parts with a connecting element to maintain electrical connection between end electrodes, even under axial tensile forces, and uses clamping members to ensure contact pressure between varistor blocks, distributing tensile forces effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a multi-module surge arrester is placed on a foundation, then installation simplicity is improved, but uneven load distribution causes axial tensile forces that lead to loss of contact pressure between varistor blocks
Solution Approach 1:
The first end electrode is divided into two separate parts: a first part that contacts the varistor block and a second part that provides the electrical connection. This segmentation allows the tensile forces to be isolated to the electrical connection part, while the contact part maintains stable contact pressure with the varistor block, resolving the contradiction between installation simplicity and contact pressure stability.
2Stress or pressure
If clamping members are used to maintain contact pressure, then contact pressure between varistor blocks is improved, but axial tensile forces can still overcome the prestress force and cause loss of contact pressure
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the end electrode into contact and connection parts, the clamping members only need to overcome the weight of the varistor blocks and minor uneven loads, rather than the full axial tensile forces. The connection part absorbs the tensile forces through the electrical connecting element, allowing the clamping members to maintain effective contact pressure.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connecting element acts as an intermediary that absorbs and transfers axial tensile forces between the two parts of the end electrode, protecting the clamping members and varistor block interface from these forces while maintaining electrical continuity.
3Reliability
If the surge arrester is suspended to avoid tensile forces, then contact pressure stability is improved, but suspension complexity and additional support structures are required
Solution Approach 1:
The segmentation of the end electrode allows the surge arrester to be installed on a simple foundation without complex suspension structures, while still maintaining contact pressure stability. The connection part handles tensile forces internally, eliminating the need for external suspension support.
4Ease of manufacture
If end electrodes are made as single solid pieces, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but they cannot effectively distribute tensile forces away from contact surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the end electrode into two parts that can be separately manufactured and then assembled simplifies the manufacturing of each individual part while providing the force distribution capability of a segmented structure. The electrical connecting element provides a reliable connection between the parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connecting element serves as an intermediary that enables force distribution between separate end electrode parts, achieving the mechanical benefits of segmentation while maintaining electrical continuity and allowing for simpler manufacturing of individual components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration ensures consistent contact pressure and electrical connectivity, preventing loss of function due to axial tensile forces, thus enhancing the reliability of surge arresters under varying load conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The electrical connecting element comprises a compression spring, which at a first end abuts against a surface on the first part of the first end electrode and at an opposite second end abuts against a surface on the second part of the first end electrode
Implementation Method 2
clamping members of electrically insulating material which are connected to the end electrodes and prestressed so as to press the end electrodes towards each other in the axial direction of the surge arrester module
Data Source
AI summary
A surge arrester module including: first and second end electrodes; and a stack of cylindrical elements including at least one varistor block. The first end electrode includes a first part and a second part. A connecting element is provided between the first end electrode parts in order to keep them electrically connected to each other if a gap is formed between them. At least one clamping member is connected to the second end electrode and to the first part of the first end electrode in order to press them towards each other in the axial direction. The clamping member or at least one other clamping member is connected to the second end electrode and to the second part of the first end electrode in order to press them towards each other in the axial direction.