What Does the High Council of Science and Technology’s Definition Indicate?

A long-standing conceptual error in the field of electrical safety, which has gone unnoticed, is now leading to serious technical gaps in both the design and implementation phases. This error is treating SPD (Surge Arrester) and SSD (Surge Suppressor) as if they were the same thing.

However, the definition in the High Council of Science and Technology’s unit price tariff technically describes SSD, not SPD. As long as this distinction is not made, it is impossible to talk about real surge protection in the field; because everyone, from the project engineer to the institution/organization that needs it, may think they are providing protection based on the definition there.

What is an SPD (Surge Arrester) and What Isn’t?

SPDs (Surge Protection Devices) are essentially devices designed to transmit the excessive current generated during an overvoltage to the ground.

Therefore:
• All SPD datasheets give test criteria in kA (kiloamperes).
• Tests measure only the transfer of the surge current to ground, without any load connected in parallel.
• The aim is not to suppress the generated overvoltage or energy, but to discharge it to the ground.

Today, no surge arrester manufacturer’s datasheet includes the phrase “surge protection.”

The Reality of Test Systematics

SPD tests are performed without any load in parallel.

This test approach is insufficient for protecting sensitive electronic systems at low voltage.

What Makes SSDs (Surge Suppressors) Different?

SSDs protect loads while they are operating by suppressing the voltage.

Neutral Protection: Not Available in SPDs, Available in SSDs

Neutral protection is unique to SSDs.

Low Voltage – Medium Voltage Distinction

SPDs are suitable for medium and high voltages, but insufficient for low voltages.

High Council of Science and Technology Tariff and Project Design Reality

The definition directly points to SSD technology. If we define the concepts correctly, we will have provided appropriate protection.

If damage occurs, it can turn into a fire; if damage is prevented, some fires will not start.