Good power quality is crucial to business and industry. Most front office and business operations depend on electronic devices such as computers, fax machines, copiers and telephones. In addition, an increasing number of manufacturing and process equipment machines depend on solid state and electronic controls for operation. Much of this equipment has multiple connections to not only power, but also data cables, and in many cases, telecommunications lines.
Surge protection is a key part of power quality.
But the protection should not be limited to the main service. For example, this equipment would be at risk if a nearby lightning strike induced transient surges on the internal wiring of the facility, bypassing the service entrance protection. Research studies reveal that the majority of high-voltage transient surges are generated by other equipment within a facility, such as flourescent lights, large motors, air conditioners and elevators. Arc-inducing equipment, such as welders, can also cause problems within a facility and for businesses in adjacent facilities. These types of transient surges, though not as powerful as lightning, can affect the operation of electric equipment causing lock-ups, loss of memory, and eventually failure.