Hey there! As a gas tube arrestor supplier, I've seen firsthand how important it is to store these devices properly. Gas tube arrestors are crucial for protecting electrical and electronic systems from overvoltage surges, like those caused by lightning or electrical malfunctions. But if they're not stored right, their performance can be seriously affected. So, in this blog, I'm gonna share some tips on how to store gas tube arrestors properly.
1. Temperature and Humidity Control
One of the most critical factors in storing gas tube arrestors is controlling the temperature and humidity of the storage environment. Gas tube arrestors are sensitive to extreme temperatures and high humidity levels, which can cause corrosion, moisture ingress, and other issues that degrade their performance.
- Temperature: Ideally, gas tube arrestors should be stored in a temperature - controlled environment between 10°C and 30°C (50°F and 86°F). Extreme cold can make the gas inside the tube contract, potentially leading to cracks or other damage. On the other hand, high temperatures can cause the gas to expand and increase the internal pressure, which may also damage the arrestor.
- Humidity: Keep the relative humidity in the storage area below 70%. High humidity can cause moisture to condense on the arrestor's surface, leading to corrosion of the metal components and electrical shorts. A dehumidifier can be a great investment for maintaining the right humidity level in your storage space.
2. Protection from Physical Damage
Gas tube arrestors are delicate devices, and they can be easily damaged by physical impacts, vibrations, or improper handling.
- Packaging: When you receive gas tube arrestors from the manufacturer, they usually come in protective packaging. Keep them in this packaging until you're ready to use them. If the original packaging is damaged, consider using a suitable alternative, like anti - static foam or bubble wrap, to protect the arrestors.
- Storage Racks: Use sturdy storage racks to keep the arrestors organized and prevent them from falling or getting crushed. Make sure the racks are stable and can support the weight of the arrestors without bending or breaking.
- Handling: When handling gas tube arrestors, be gentle. Avoid dropping them or subjecting them to rough treatment. Always hold them by the non - sensitive parts, and use proper tools if you need to install or remove them.
3. Protection from Chemicals and Contaminants
Gas tube arrestors can be affected by exposure to chemicals, dust, and other contaminants.
- Clean Storage Area: Keep the storage area clean and free from dust, dirt, and other debris. Regularly clean the shelves and floors to prevent contaminants from accumulating on the arrestors.
- Avoid Chemical Exposure: Store gas tube arrestors away from chemicals, solvents, and other corrosive substances. These can damage the arrestor's components and reduce its effectiveness. If you need to store chemicals in the same area, make sure they are properly sealed and separated from the arrestors.
4. Proper Labeling and Inventory Management
Proper labeling and inventory management are essential for ensuring that you can easily find the gas tube arrestors you need and keep track of their expiration dates.
- Labeling: Label each gas tube arrestor with important information, such as the model number, voltage rating, and manufacturing date. This will make it easier to identify the arrestors and ensure that you're using the right ones for your applications.
- Inventory System: Implement an inventory system to keep track of the quantity, location, and usage of your gas tube arrestors. This can help you avoid overstocking or running out of critical components. You can use a simple spreadsheet or a more advanced inventory management software, depending on the size of your operation.
5. Regular Inspections
Even when stored properly, gas tube arrestors can still develop problems over time. That's why it's important to conduct regular inspections.
- Visual Inspections: Periodically inspect the gas tube arrestors for signs of damage, such as cracks, corrosion, or discoloration. If you notice any issues, replace the arrestor immediately to ensure the safety and reliability of your electrical systems.
- Functional Tests: In addition to visual inspections, it's a good idea to perform functional tests on the arrestors at regular intervals. This can help you detect any performance degradation or malfunctions before they cause problems.
Now, let me introduce some of our popular gas tube arrestors. We have the DIN 7 - 16 Lightning Surge Protector Male To Female Gas Discharge Tube Arrestor TD - FD716 - JK - 2, which is designed to provide reliable protection against lightning surges. Another great product is the DC - 3GHz TNC Female To Female Connector RF Lightning Arrester Gas Tube Discharge 90V 230V 350V TD - FDT - JK - 7 - 2, suitable for RF applications. And for wireless communication, we offer the Surge Protection Device for Wireless Communication Type Surge Arrestor N Female To Female.
If you're interested in purchasing gas tube arrestors or have any questions about their storage or usage, feel free to reach out to us. We're always here to help you find the right solutions for your needs.
References
- "Electrical Protection Handbook" - A comprehensive guide on electrical protection devices, including gas tube arrestors.
- Manufacturer's specifications and guidelines for gas tube arrestors.