Today's Automation News Headlines from Automation.com

December 13, 2011 - The NEMA Surge Protection Institute (NPSI) updated its website that informs users about surge characteristics, how surge protective devices (SPDs) work, and how to specify and apply surge protection.

NSPI is an educational outreach effort initiated by the Low Voltage Surge Protective Devices Section of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) to heighten awareness of the benefits of surge protection for the purpose of promoting proper application and usage.

The website is a one-stop location for information on applying surge protection to commercial, industrial, and residential facilities. It includes:

• FAQs
• glossary
•  links to regulations, relevant standards, and manufacturers
• reference materials

This user friendly site provides information about the harmful effects of electrical surges and how to minimize damage and lost productivity caused by them. It is meets the needs of installers, specifiers, and current and potential consumers of surge protection.

SPDs reduce potentially damaging short-duration transients present on lines connected to telephone and cable feeds, security systems, entertainment centers, household appliances, and electronic equipment.

Industry experts estimate that electrical surges cost businesses $26 billion annually in lost time as well as equipment repair and replacement. Protecting electrical and electronic systems and equipment from the damaging effects of voltage surges is a modern necessity.

NEMA is the association of electrical equipment manufacturers, founded in 1926 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia. Its member companies manufacture a diverse set of products including power transmission and distribution equipment, lighting systems, factory automation and control systems, and medical diagnostic imaging systems. Worldwide annual sales of NEMA-scope products exceed $120 billion.