A new form of transient suppressor

A new tubular extrusion form of transient suppressor made from metal-oxide-varistor (MCV) material could improve the effectiveness of transient suppression systems. The new component was designed for installation directly on the pins of system wiring connectors minimizing added bulk and weight. The physical construction lends itself to relatively large conducting areas and inherent heat-absorbing mass, thereby aiding the ability to divert transient peak current and to sustain deposited energy. The electrical characteristics of the new connector pin varistors have been shown to be generally similar to commercial disc varistors of comparable voltage and active physical volume. Electrical ratings were first estimated by projection from other forms and then empirically verified by evaluation testing. It was concluded that these devices, which also exhibit resistance to the stress of radiation, have a manifest potential to improve transient voltage protection of both aerospace and ground electronic systems.