Phoenix VAL-MS-T1/T2 Series: T1/T2 Surge Protection Devices (SPD) - Comprehensive Application & Selection Guide

Product Positioning & Core Value

The Phoenix VAL-MS-T1/T2 Series represents a portfolio of T1/T2 combined surge protection devices (SPD) engineered to safeguard industrial electrical systems, photovoltaic (PV) installations, and AC/DC power networks against lightning-induced and switching surges. As dual-class (T1: lightning protection, T2: surge protection) devices, they provide comprehensive overvoltage protection for equipment such as power supplies, controllers, PV inverters, and industrial machinery.

Key Value Propositions:

• Dual-Class Protection: Integrates T1 (10/350μs) and T2 (8/20μs) surge protection in one device, eliminating the need for separate T1 and T2 SPDs.
• Wide Voltage Compatibility: Covers 48V DC to 1000V DC (PV-specific) and 175V~335V AC systems, adapting to diverse industrial and renewable energy applications.
• Flexible Pole Configurations: Available in 1+0, 1+1, 3+0, 3+1, 4+0 pole configurations to match single-phase, three-phase, and PV DC system requirements.
• Certified Reliability: Complies with IEC 61643-11, UL 1449, and FM Global standards (-FM suffix models), with PV-specific certifications for solar installations.
• Robust Design: 12.5kA maximum discharge current (I_max), IP20 protection, and -40°C~+85°C operating temperature range for harsh environments.

Product Family Classification

The VAL-MS-T1/T2 Series is categorized by application scenario (general AC/DC, PV systems) and voltage rating, with key variants distinguished by suffixes and pole configurations:

1. PV System-Specific SPDs (1000DC-PV / 600DC-PV)

• Function: Surge protection for PV system DC side (solar panels, inverters, combiner boxes).
• Key Features: High DC system voltage (600V/1000V), PV-certified, T1/T2 dual-class protection, optional voltage monitoring (2+V).
• Pole Configurations: 2+V (2 poles + voltage monitoring), single-pole (ST standard type).
• Certifications: IEC 61643-31 (PV), UL 1741, FM Global (-FM suffix).

2. AC/DC General-Purpose SPDs (335V, 175V, 48V)

• Function: Surge protection for industrial AC/DC power networks, control systems, and electrical equipment.
• Key Features: Wide voltage range (48V~335V), 12.5kA I_max, multiple pole configurations, optional FM certification (-FM suffix).
• Pole Configurations:
  • 1+0: Single-phase, ungrounded (line + no neutral)
  • 1+1: Single-phase, grounded (line + neutral)
  • 3+0: Three-phase, ungrounded (three lines + no neutral)
  • 3+1: Three-phase, grounded (three lines + neutral)
  • 4+0: Three-phase, four-wire (three lines + neutral, full protection)

2.1 335V Series (AC/DC)

2.2 175V Series (AC/DC)

2.3 48V Series (DC)

3. Special Suffix Explanation

• -FM: FM Global certified (for North American and FM-required markets).
• -PV: Photovoltaic system-specific (complies with IEC 61643-31, optimized for DC PV systems).
• -ST: Standard type (base model without additional features like voltage monitoring).
• 2+V: 2-pole protection + voltage monitoring (for PV system status tracking).
• Pole Configurations (e.g., 1+0, 3+1): Indicates number of protected lines + neutral/grounded conductor.

Technical Specifications (Universal Parameters)

Application Scenario Analysis

1. Photovoltaic (PV) Systems

Recommended Configuration:

• Large-Scale PV Plants (1000DC): VAL-MS-T1/T2 1000DC-PV/2+V-FM (2801161) + VAL-MS-T1/T2 1000DC-PV-ST (2801162)
• Medium-Scale PV Systems (600DC): VAL-MS-T1/T2 600DC-PV/2+V (2801163) + VAL-MS-T1/T2 600DC-PV-ST (2801165)

Advantages:

• PV-specific certification ensures compatibility with solar inverters and combiner boxes.
• 1000DC/600DC maximum system voltage matches modern PV panel string voltages.
• Voltage monitoring (2+V) enables real-time surge protection status tracking.
• FM certification meets North American market requirements for industrial PV projects.

2. Industrial AC Power Networks

Recommended Configuration:

• Three-Phase Four-Wire (335V): VAL-MS-T1/T2 335/12.5/3+1-FM (2800183)
• Three-Phase Ungrounded (335V): VAL-MS-T1/T2 335/12.5/3+0-FM (2800188)
• Single-Phase Grounded (335V): VAL-MS-T1/T2 335/12.5/1+1-FM (2800186)

Advantages:

• Multiple pole configurations adapt to diverse industrial power systems.
• 12.5kA I_max handles severe lightning and switching surges.
• FM certification ensures compliance with industrial safety standards.
• T1/T2 dual-class protection eliminates the need for separate SPDs, saving space and cost.

3. Low-Voltage DC Control Systems

Recommended Configuration:

• 48V DC Control Systems: VAL-MS-T1/T2 48/12.5/1+0-FM (2801240)
• 175V DC Equipment: VAL-MS-T1/T2 175/12.5 ST (2800676)

Advantages:

• Compact design fits in small control cabinets and IoT device enclosures.
• Fast response time (≤25ns) protects sensitive electronics (PLCs, sensors, IoT modules).
• 48V model is ideal for battery-powered and remote monitoring systems.

4. Commercial & Building Electrical Systems

Recommended Configuration:

• Single-Phase Power: VAL-MS-T1/T2 335/12.5/1+1-FM (2800186)
• Low-Voltage Lighting/Controls: VAL-MS-T1/T2 175/12.5/1+1-FM (2800674)

Advantages:

• FM certification meets commercial building safety requirements.
• 1+1 pole configuration protects line and neutral conductors, ensuring comprehensive surge protection.
• Flame-retardant housing reduces fire risk in building environments.

Selection Guide

Step 1: Identify System Type & Voltage

Step 2: Select Pole Configuration

Step 3: Confirm Certification Requirements

• North American Markets/FM Compliance: Select models with -FM suffix (e.g., VAL-MS-T1/T2 1000DC-PV/2+V-FM).
• PV Systems: Select models with -PV suffix (ensures IEC 61643-31 compliance).
• General Industrial Use: Standard models (without -FM/-PV) are sufficient for CE-marked markets.

Step 4: Verify Special Features

• Voltage Monitoring: Choose 2+V models for PV systems requiring real-time status tracking.
• Space Constraints: All models are DIN rail-mounted; pole-dependent width (17.5mm for 1+0, 52.5mm for 4+0) ensures compatibility with control cabinets.

Installation & Maintenance Guide

Installation Steps:

1. Mounting: Snap the SPD onto a 35mm DIN rail, ensuring ≥10mm spacing for heat dissipation. Install as close to the power entry point (PEN) as possible for optimal protection.
2. Wiring: Connect line, neutral, and ground conductors to the corresponding terminals (marked L, N, PE). Use 1.5~4mm² copper conductors; torque terminal screws to 0.8~1.2Nm.
3. Polarity Check: For DC/PV models, ensure correct polarity (positive/negative) to avoid damage. For 2+V models, connect voltage monitoring terminals to the PV inverter’s status input.
4. Testing: Power on the system and verify the LED indicator (green = normal operation). Test surge protection functionality with a calibrated surge generator (optional).

Maintenance Points:

• Status Monitoring: Regularly check the LED indicator (red = fault, replace SPD immediately).
• Periodic Inspection: Conduct annual visual inspections for loose connections, damaged housing, or corrosion.
• Replacement: Replace SPDs after a major surge event (indicated by red LED) or every 10 years (service life).
• PV Systems: In dusty or harsh environments, clean the SPD housing quarterly to maintain heat dissipation.
• Documentation: Keep installation records and certification documents for compliance audits.

Product Comparison (VAL-MS-T1/T2 Series vs. Traditional SPDs)

Summary & Next Steps

The Phoenix VAL-MS-T1/T2 Series delivers comprehensive, cost-effective surge protection for industrial, PV, and commercial electrical systems. With T1/T2 dual-class protection, wide voltage compatibility, flexible pole configurations, and global certifications, these SPDs safeguard equipment against lightning and switching surges while simplifying installation and maintenance.