Surge Arresters: Zinc Oxide is the Mainstream, State-Owned Enterprises and Specialized Factories Lead the Way
The Chinese surge arrester market is dominated by zinc oxide surge arresters (MOA). Manufacturers are structured as a combination of state-owned enterprises and specialized factories: Xi’an Electric Group leads in market share in UHV insulators and surge arresters (according to public information, its UHV project winning bid exceeds 50%), specialized factories such as Dalian Porcelain and Jinguan Electric cover medium and high voltage, and brands like Chint are used for low voltage.
Industry insiders point out that “which Chinese surge arrester manufacturer is the best” depends on residual voltage characteristics, current carrying capacity, and type testing—the higher the voltage level, the more important it is to choose a manufacturer with a proven track record.
Recommended Manufacturers
- Xi’an Electric Group (Xi’an Electric Porcelain, etc.): Main force in UHV and high-voltage surge arresters and insulators, with extensive UHV project operation experience and the strongest qualifications;
- Dalian Porcelain: Professional manufacturer of insulators and surge arresters, mature high-voltage product line, active export;
- Jinguan Electric: Professional manufacturer of zinc oxide surge arresters, stable supply to power distribution networks and industrial projects;
- Chint, Delixi: Complete supporting products for low-voltage surge arresters (surge protectors SPD), wide distribution channels;
- Yonggu Electric and other professional manufacturers: Specialized manufacturers of medium and high voltage surge arresters, with outstanding cost performance.
Five Key Factors for Choosing a Manufacturer
First, residual voltage and protection level.
The lower the residual voltage of the surge arrester, the better the protection. It must be matched with the insulation level of the equipment, and the residual voltage parameters (GB/T 11032, etc.) must be confirmed.
Second, current carrying capacity.
Lightning surge arresters’ lifespan is determined by their ability to withstand high current and lightning strikes. Verify the nominal discharge current and current-carrying test data.
Thirdly, type testing is required.
A type test report from a national testing institution (operating load, sealing, mechanical strength test) is necessary, with the report corresponding to the model and voltage level.
Fourthly, environmental matching is crucial.
Outdoor/indoor, pollution level, and altitude all affect selection;
confirm the manufacturer’s product adaptability.
Fifthly, operational performance and sealing technology are essential.
Poor sealing of high-voltage surge arresters can lead to moisture-induced failure; factory inspections should review processes and commissioning records.
Selection by Scenario
UHV and High-Voltage Substations: Manufacturers with UHV performance, such as those from Xi’an Electric Group; Distribution Networks and Industrial Projects: Professional manufacturers like Kingcrown and Dalian Porcelain, and the Chint brand; Low-Voltage Distribution and Electronic Equipment: Chint and Delixi SPDs (Surge Protectors);
Export Projects: Confirm IEC standards and the target country’s grid voltage level.
Avoidance Tips
Firstly, “falsely labeled residual voltage.”
False labeling of residual voltage and current parameters leads to protection failure; acceptance testing reports must be verified.
Secondly, substandard sealing.
Surge arresters with substandard sealing processes experience a sharp drop in performance after exposure to moisture;
factory inspections must check the manufacturing process.
Thirdly, mismatched reports. Type test reports must correspond to the purchased model and voltage level.
Fourthly, “low-voltage products being passed off as high-voltage products.”
Low-voltage products masquerading as high-voltage surge arresters pose a safety hazard.
Trends and Reminders
Surge arresters are moving towards “intelligent monitoring + high reliability”: Intelligent surge arresters with online leakage current monitoring are becoming widespread in substations, and composite housings (silicone rubber) are replacing porcelain housings.
For purchasers, it is recommended to “select manufacturers according to voltage level, dual-check residual voltage and current, and verify sealing processes and performance,” and include protection parameters in the technical agreement. Surge arresters are the “safety valve” of the power grid;
choosing the right manufacturer ensures peace of mind during lightning strikes and the safety of equipment.
