Maintenance tests and test intervals for lightning protection systems are specified in DIN EN 62305-3, supplement 3 (see table excerpt). However, these periods are only standard-based minimum requirements.
Visual inspections of arresters for information technology systems do not make sense since the status of the devices is not generally visible. For this purpose, another method has to be chosen as is the case with complete inspections. In the past, measurement equipment was used to test arresters. These measurements were very time consuming, required expertise and did not provide sufficient information.
Preventive maintenance:
With this maintenance strategy, arresters are tested and measured at regular intervals. They are assessed according to predetermined criteria and, if required, replaced.
In the past, this procedure was very time consuming, expensive and required disconnection of the system.
LifeCheck-equipped arresters have been available for some years now, allowing to determine the status of the arrester via RFID technology. A monitoring circuit with a transponder integrated the arrester permanently monitors the protective circuit for impermissible overload caused by overheating or impulse currents.
Information is read via a hand-held tester which houses the RFID reader.
It contactlessly transmits electromagnetic energy to the transponder in the SPD, reads out its status and displays it. Information is simple: "SPD OK" or "Replace SPD!". A test can be conducted in a matter of seconds. When testing, the arrester must simply be pulled out of the base part by its mechanical length (approx. 50 mm). By using the BXT BAS, signal availability is also guaranteed while testing.
This type of monitoring reliably detects thermal and electrical overload of all components, typically before the arrester fails and the availability of the system to be protected is limited. In addition, no expertise is required for testing. The reader also facilitates documentation of the test results which is mandatory in compliance with the EN 62305-3 standard.