Radioactive resistance of some commercial gas filled surge arresters

This paper examines the influence of constructive parameters on gas filled surge arresters (GFSA) pre-breakdown current in gamma and X radiation fields. The observed effects on some commercial GFSAs have been compared to an originally developed GFSA model, with the aim of improving the characteristics of commercial components. The type of noble gas, the pressure in gas chamber, the inter-electrode gap value, the electrode material, and the manner of electrode surface processing have been used as variable parameters. The obtained results are significant for better understanding of the pre-breakdown effects in gases at low pressures, but also have practical importance for manufacturer of GFSA.