Phoenix VAL-SEC-T2 Series: T2 Class Surge Protection Devices (SPDs) - Comprehensive Application & Selection Guide
Product Positioning & Core Value
The Phoenix VAL-SEC-T2 Series represents a high-performance lineup of Type 2 surge protection devices (SPDs) engineered to safeguard industrial power systems, electrical infrastructure, and sensitive equipment from transient voltage surges. As critical components in surge protection layers, these modules mitigate risks from switching operations, lightning-induced disturbances, and grid fluctuations, ensuring uninterrupted operation of power distribution systems. With versatile configurations for AC/DC power networks, multiple pole designs (1S~3C), wide voltage ratings (120DC~440V AC), and functional variants (FM Global certification, variable frequency compatibility, high-surge capacity), the series is ideal for industrial facilities, commercial buildings, hazardous areas, and renewable energy systems. Its robust design, compliance with IEC 61643-12, and 35mm DIN rail mounting make it a reliable choice for harsh industrial environments and critical power infrastructure.
Product Family Overview
The VAL-SEC-T2 Series is categorized by pole configuration, voltage type (AC/DC), and functional features to meet diverse application needs:
1. AC Surge Protection Modules
- Function: Protect AC power systems (single-phase/three-phase) from transient surges.
- Pole Configurations: 1S (1-pole + PE), 2S (2-pole + PE), 3S (3-pole + PE), 3C (3-pole + N + PE), N/PE (Neutral + PE).
- Voltage Ratings: 175V, 350V, 440V AC.
- Functional Variants:
FM: FM Global certified (hazardous area compliant, Class I/II/III, Div 2).P: Standard performance (general industrial applications).VF: Variable frequency compatible (for inverter-driven systems).
- Typical Models: VAL-SEC-T2-3S-350-FM, VAL-SEC-T2-N/PE-350-P, VAL-SEC-T2-3C-440-FM.
2. DC Surge Protection Modules
- Function: Safeguard DC power systems (batteries, solar PV, industrial DC circuits) from surges.
- Pole Configurations: 2+0 (2-pole, no PE), 2+F (2-pole + filter).
- Voltage Ratings: 48DC, 120DC, 220DC, 380DC.
- Functional Variants:
FM(hazardous area compliant),P(standard performance). - Typical Models: VAL-SEC-T2-2+0-48DC-FM, VAL-SEC-T2-220DC-P, VAL-SEC-T2-2+F-48DC-FM.
Technical Specifications (Universal Parameters)
| Parameter Category | Technical Indicators | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical Characteristics | ||
| Rated Voltage (Uc) | AC: 175V, 350V, 440VDC: 48V, 120V, 220V, 380V | Matches grid voltage requirements |
| Surge Current Capacity (Iimp) | Up to 350kA (8/20μs waveform) | Varies by model (175kA/350kA) |
| Protection Level (Up) | ≤1.2kV (AC models)≤1.5kV (DC models) | Low clamping voltage for sensitive equipment |
| Response Time | ≤25ns | Fast surge suppression to minimize damage |
| Polarity | AC: BidirectionalDC: Unidirectional | Optimized for voltage type |
| Mechanical Characteristics | ||
| Mounting Type | 35mm DIN rail (NS 35/7.5) | Space-saving cabinet installation |
| Housing Material | Polyamide PA (Flame-retardant V0 grade) | Resistance to high temperature and impact |
| Protection Class | IP20 (cabinet mounting) | Dust and solid particle protection |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +85°C | Wide range for harsh industrial environments |
| Storage Temperature | -40°C to +90°C | Stable storage performance |
| Compliance & Safety | ||
| Certifications | CE, UL 1449 (4th Edition), CSA, FM Global (FM models) | Global industrial and hazardous area compliance |
| Standards | IEC 61643-12, EN 61643-12 | Meets international surge protection standards |
| Indicator | Visual status LED (green = normal; red = faulty) | Easy fault detection and maintenance |
Detailed Function Module Introduction
1. AC Surge Protection Modules (Pole Configurations)
1.1 Single-Phase & Neutral-PE Modules
| Model | Order No. | Core Functions | Technical Highlights | Application Scenarios |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VAL-SEC-T2-N/PE-350-P | 2905347 | N/PE surge protection, 350kA capacity | Standard P-variant, 350kA Iimp, IP20 | Single-phase AC systems (neutral-ground surge mitigation) |
| VAL-SEC-T2-1S-350-FM | 2905333 | 1-pole + PE, FM certified, 350kA capacity | Hazardous area compliant, 8/20μs waveform | Explosive environments (Div 2) single-phase systems |
| VAL-SEC-T2-1S-175-FM | 2905348 | 1-pole + PE, FM certified, 175kA capacity | Cost-effective FM option, 175kA Iimp | Light-duty single-phase systems in hazardous areas |
1.2 Two-Phase Modules
| Model | Order No. | Core Functions | Technical Highlights | Application Scenarios |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VAL-SEC-T2-2S-350 | 2905343 | 2-pole + PE, 350kA capacity | Standard performance, 2-pole protection | Two-phase AC systems (industrial machinery, pumps) |
| VAL-SEC-T2-2C-350-FM | 2905337 | 2-pole + N + PE, FM certified, 350kA capacity | Neutral-included protection, hazardous area compliance | Two-phase systems with neutral (building electrical infrastructure) |
| VAL-SEC-T2-2S-175-FM | 2905351 | 2-pole + PE, FM certified, 175kA capacity | Low-surge capacity, cost-effective | Light-load two-phase systems in hazardous areas |
1.3 Three-Phase Modules
| Model | Order No. | Core Functions | Technical Highlights | Application Scenarios |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VAL-SEC-T2-3S-350-FM | 2905340 | 3-pole + PE, FM certified, 350kA capacity | 3-phase protection, hazardous area compliant | Heavy-duty industrial 3-phase systems (motors, inverters) |
| VAL-SEC-T2-3C-350 | 2905344 | 3-pole + N + PE, 350kA capacity | Neutral-included protection, standard variant | 3-phase 4-wire systems (power distribution panels) |
| VAL-SEC-T2-3S-350VF-FM | 2909590 | 3-pole + PE, VF variable frequency, FM certified | Inverter-compatible, 350kA Iimp | Variable frequency drive (VFD) systems, renewable energy |
| VAL-SEC-T2-3S-350/40-FM | 2909635 | 3-pole + PE, 350kA/40kA dual capacity | Dual surge rating, FM certified | Mixed-load 3-phase systems (heavy + sensitive equipment) |
2. DC Surge Protection Modules
| Model | Order No. | Core Functions | Technical Highlights | Application Scenarios |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VAL-SEC-T2-220DC-P | 2907879 | 2-pole DC protection, 220V DC | Standard P-variant, IP20, ≤1.5kV Up | Industrial DC systems (batteries, DC motors) |
| VAL-SEC-T2-2+0-48DC-FM | 2907865 | 2-pole DC, FM certified, 48V DC | Hazardous area compliant, no PE | 48V DC systems in explosive environments (sensors, communication equipment) |
| VAL-SEC-T2-2+F-48DC-FM | 1033786 | 2-pole DC + filter, FM certified, 48V DC | Integrated filtering, surge protection | Sensitive 48V DC systems (PLCs, control circuits) in hazardous areas |
| VAL-SEC-T2-2+0-380DC-FM | 2907876 | 2-pole DC, FM certified, 380V DC | High-voltage DC protection | Solar PV systems, high-voltage DC power distribution |
Application Scenario Analysis
1. Industrial Power Distribution Systems
Recommended Configuration:
- 3-Phase 4-Wire Systems: VAL-SEC-T2-3C-350-FM (2905339)
- 3-Phase VFD Systems: VAL-SEC-T2-3S-350VF-FM (2909590)
- Single-Phase Auxiliary Systems: VAL-SEC-T2-N/PE-350-P (2905347)
Implementation Advantages:
- 350kA surge capacity withstands heavy industrial transient surges.
- VF variant compatibility with inverter-driven equipment (motors, pumps).
- FM certification enables deployment in hazardous production areas (chemical, oil & gas).
2. Hazardous Area Electrical Infrastructure
Recommended Configuration:
- AC Systems: VAL-SEC-T2-3S-350-FM (2905340), VAL-SEC-T2-1S-350-FM (2905333)
- DC Systems: VAL-SEC-T2-2+0-48DC-FM (2907865), VAL-SEC-T2-2+F-48DC-FM (1033786)
Implementation Advantages:
- FM Global certification (Class I/II/III, Div 2) meets hazardous area safety standards.
- Robust housing (IP20, -40°C~85°C) resists harsh environmental conditions.
- Fast response time (≤25ns) protects sensitive equipment from surge damage.
3. Renewable Energy & DC Power Systems
Recommended Configuration:
- Solar PV (380V DC): VAL-SEC-T2-2+0-380DC-FM (2907876)
- Battery Storage (220V DC): VAL-SEC-T2-220DC-P (2907879)
- Low-Voltage DC (48V): VAL-SEC-T2-2+F-48DC-FM (1033786)
Implementation Advantages:
- Wide DC voltage range (48V~380V) covers most renewable energy applications.
- Unidirectional polarity optimized for DC power flow.
- FM certification ensures safety in outdoor and hazardous renewable energy installations.
4. Commercial Building Electrical Networks
Recommended Configuration:
- Main Distribution Panels: VAL-SEC-T2-3C-440-FM (2909968)
- Single-Phase Circuits: VAL-SEC-T2-1S-175-FM (2905348)
- Neutral-Ground Protection: VAL-SEC-T2-N/PE-175-P (2905356)
Implementation Advantages:
- 440V AC rating matches commercial building grid voltage.
- 175kA capacity balances protection and cost-effectiveness.
- LED status indicators enable easy maintenance for facility managers.
Selection Guide
Step 1: Determine Voltage Type & Rating
- AC Systems: Select based on grid voltage (175V/350V/440V) and phase configuration (single/three-phase).
- DC Systems: Match with DC power source voltage (48V/120V/220V/380V) and polarity requirements.
Step 2: Choose Pole Configuration
| System Type | Recommended Pole Configuration | Application Example |
|---|---|---|
| Single-Phase AC (L+N+PE) | 1S (1-pole + PE) or N/PE | Office lighting, small machinery |
| Two-Phase AC (L1+L2+PE/N) | 2S (2-pole + PE) or 2C (2-pole + N + PE) | Industrial pumps, dual-phase equipment |
| Three-Phase AC (L1+L2+L3+N+PE) | 3S (3-pole + PE) or 3C (3-pole + N + PE) | Motors, power distribution panels |
| DC Systems (+/-, no PE) | 2+0 (2-pole) | Solar PV, battery storage |
| DC Systems (sensitive electronics) | 2+F (2-pole + filter) | PLCs, control circuits |
Step 3: Select Functional Features
- Hazardous Areas: Choose
FMsuffix models (FM Global certified). - Variable Frequency Systems: Select
VFsuffix models (inverter-compatible). - General Industrial Applications: Opt for
Psuffix models (standard performance). - Mixed-Load Systems: Consider dual-capacity models (e.g., 350/40kA) for versatile protection.
Step 4: Confirm Surge Capacity Requirements
- Heavy-Duty Industrial: 350kA models (e.g., VAL-SEC-T2-3S-350-FM)
- Light-Duty/Commercial: 175kA models (e.g., VAL-SEC-T2-1S-175-FM)
- Sensitive Equipment: Lower Up models (≤1.2kV) for minimal voltage distortion.
Installation & Maintenance Guide
Installation Steps:
- Mounting: Snap the module onto a 35mm DIN rail in the power distribution panel (install as close to the power entry point as possible).
- Wiring: Connect conductors according to pole configuration (L/N/PE for AC; +/_ for DC) using 1.5~6mm² copper conductors.
- Torque: Tighten terminal screws to 0.8~1.2Nm for secure connections.
- Grounding: Ensure proper PE grounding (≤4Ω ground resistance) to maximize surge dissipation.
- Testing: Verify LED indicator (green = normal) post-installation.
Maintenance Points:
- Status Monitoring: Regularly check LED status (red = faulty, replace immediately).
- Replacement: Replace modules after surge events (faulty LED) or every 10 years (service life).
- Environmental Control: Keep installation area dry and free of dust (IP20 protection).
- Inspection: Conduct annual inspections for loose connections and damage to the housing.
VAL-SEC-T2 Series vs. Traditional Surge Protection Solutions
| Comparison Dimension | VAL-SEC-T2 Series | Traditional Surge Protection |
|---|---|---|
| Surge Capacity | Up to 350kA (handles heavy industrial surges) | Typically ≤200kA (limited to light-duty applications) |
| Functional Versatility | AC/DC compatibility, FM certification, VF function | Limited to single voltage type/function |
| Hazardous Area Compliance | FM certified (Div 2) for explosive environments | Rarely certified for hazardous areas |
| Response Time | ≤25ns (fast suppression for sensitive equipment) | ≥50ns (slower response, higher damage risk) |
| Installation Flexibility | 35mm DIN rail mounting (space-saving) | Bulkier, fixed mounting (requires more space) |
| Maintenance | LED status indicators (easy fault detection) | No visual indicators (time-consuming troubleshooting) |
| Longevity | -40°C~85°C operating range (10-year service life) | Narrow temperature range (5-year service life) |
Summary & Next Steps
The Phoenix VAL-SEC-T2 Series delivers comprehensive, reliable surge protection for AC/DC power systems across industrial, commercial, and hazardous environments. With its versatile pole configurations, wide voltage ratings, and functional variants (FM, VF, high-surge capacity), the series adapts to diverse application needs while meeting global safety standards. By selecting the appropriate model based on voltage type, pole configuration, and environmental requirements, you can effectively mitigate surge risks and ensure uninterrupted operation of critical power infrastructure.