Phoenix Contact VAL-MS Surge Protection Devices Selection Guide: Precise Part Number to Model Matching

I. Series Overview: Comprehensive Protection for Industrial Power Systems

The Phoenix Contact VAL-MS series provides reliable surge protection for industrial power systems, with models designed for:

• Three-phase systems: 3+1 (L1-3+N+PE) or 3+0 (L1-3+PEN) configurations
• Single-phase systems: 2+0 or 1+1 configurations
• DC applications: Including photovoltaic (PV) systems
• Modular design: Base elements (BE) with replaceable protection modules

All models comply with IEC 61643-11/EN 61643-11 standards and feature:

• Remote indication contact (FM) for status monitoring
• Thermal protection with visual fault indication
• Fast response time (≤25ns)
• Industrial-grade durability (-40°C to +70°C)
• IP20 protection
• Easy DIN rail installation

II. Complete Product Catalog (Part Number + Model + Core Parameters)

1. Base Elements (BE Series): Foundation for Surge Protection

2. Protection Modules: Replaceable Units for Surge Suppression

III. Model Nomenclature Explained (Key to Understanding Part Numbers)

VAL-MS/[A+B]-[C]/[D]:

• A+B: Phase configuration (e.g., 3+1=3 phases+neutral+earth, 3+0=3 phases+PEN)
• C: Base element type (BE=base element, V=protection module)
• D: Additional features (FM=remote monitoring, ST=screw terminals, VF=fork terminals, UD=universal design, PV=photovoltaic)

VAL-MS [X]/[Y] [Z]:

• X: Nominal voltage (e.g., 750=750V AC, 600DC=600V DC)
• Y: Max discharge current in kA (e.g., 30=30kA)
• Z: Configuration/features (e.g., VF/FM=fork terminals+remote monitoring)

IV. 3-Step Selection Method

Step 1: Determine System Requirements

• Voltage: AC (230V/400V/580V/690V) or DC (60V/75V/600V)
• Phase: Single-phase (1+1/2+0) or three-phase (3+1/3+0)
• Earthing: Separate neutral+earth (3+1) or combined PEN (3+0)
• Environment: Standard industrial or special conditions (e.g., PV)

Step 2: Choose the Right Product Type

• Base Elements (BE): Required for protection modules, provides housing and connections
• Protection Modules: Replaceable units that absorb surges, available in various voltage/current ratings

Step 3: Select Features Based on Needs

• Remote Monitoring (FM): Recommended for critical systems where status indication is needed
• Terminal Type: Screw (ST) for standard wiring, fork (VF) for quick connections
• Width: Standard (1HP=17.5mm) or slim (2HP=35mm) for space-constrained applications

V. Application Scenarios & Recommended Products

VI. Important Selection Notes

1. Never mix voltage classes: Ensure the device voltage matches your system (e.g., 230V vs 400V vs 690V)
2. Phase configuration matters: 3+1 requires separate N and PE conductors; 3+0 uses a combined PEN
3. For PV applications: Always use dedicated PV models (600DC-PV series) for DC protection
4. Consider maintenance: FM versions allow remote status monitoring, making maintenance easier
5. Cable connections: VF terminals accept fork-type lugs; ST terminals use standard screws
6. Modularity advantage: Replace only the protection module (not the base) when damaged, reducing downtime and costs

VII. Summary & Next Steps

The Phoenix Contact VAL-MS series offers versatile surge protection for industrial power systems with a modular design that balances performance and cost-effectiveness. Start by identifying your system's voltage, phase configuration, and protection needs, then select the appropriate base element and protection module combination.