A voltage spike or surge is a sudden and temporary increase in the voltage level of an electrical circuit or system. It is typically a brief and rapid event, lasting for microseconds or milliseconds. Voltage spikes can be caused by various factors, including:
Lightning strikes: A direct lightning strike or a nearby lightning strike can induce extremely high voltages in power lines and electrical systems, leading to voltage spikes.
Switching operations: Rapid switching of electrical devices, such as turning on or off motors, transformers, or other high-power equipment, can generate voltage spikes due to the abrupt change in current flow.
Power grid disturbances: Fluctuations in the power grid caused by events like faults, load changes, or power factor corrections can lead to voltage spikes in connected systems.
Electrostatic discharge (ESD): When two objects with different electrical potentials come into contact and then separate, a buildup of static electricity can occur, resulting in a sudden discharge that generates a voltage spike.
Faulty equipment: Malfunctioning electronic components, poor insulation, or faulty wiring can cause voltage spikes within an electrical system.
Voltage spikes can potentially cause significant damage to electronic devices, appliances, and electrical systems. The excessive voltage levels can exceed the designed tolerances of these devices, leading to component failures, data loss, or even fire hazards. To protect against voltage spikes, surge protection devices (SPDs) such as surge protectors and voltage regulators are used. These devices are designed to divert excess voltage away from sensitive equipment and provide a safe path for the extra energy to dissipate, thereby preventing damage.