Volume-saving GDT selected for surge protection device

Phoenix Contact designed its TERMITRAB Complete SPD to meet the higher density needs of today's wide range of signals transmitted in measurement, control and regulation (MCR) systems. Using Phoenix Contact's innovative 'push-in' connection technology, and integrating slimmer profile components such as the Bourns FLAT GDT, TERMITRAB Complete can support up to 572MCR signals per meter. Developed for design flexibility, customers can choose the TERMITRAB Complete version that best meets their application needs – from simple, ultra-narrow protective devices to products with testable protective plugs, signaling, and optional remote signaling modules. It provides a complete low voltage system that offers multiple advantages including a status indicator and optional remote signaling enabling optimal protection.

Based on Bourns' innovative flat package and horizontal circuitry, FLAT GDTs offer a superior overvoltage protection solution for sensitive, high density and space-restricted applications such as Phoenix Contact's SPD solution. The Bourns Model 2017 Series delivers a 75% savings in volume, and supports twice the number of GDTs on the same board as compared to standard 8mm Bourns GDTs when vertically mounted. Bourns FLAT GDTs maintain the key features and critical protection benefits of conventional GDT technology. Offering robust isolation and current-handling overvoltage protection capabilities, Bourns FLAT GDTs deliver superior surge current ratings, low leakage and insertion loss with constant capacitance regardless of voltage.

"With the help of Bourns FLAT GDTs, we were able to cut the space requirements for surge protection in half while saving costs for our customers from smaller control cabinets that also help them gain valuable installation space for system planning," said Christian Birkholz, Head of R&D Surge Protection at Phoenix Contact. "Our latest TERMITRAB Complete SPD protects today's increasingly sensitive MCR applications while also satisfying their crucial high availability requirements."

"Bourns engineered our FLAT GDTs as a direct result of listening to our customers to learn what value-added solutions they need to solve challenging design issues. We are gratified that the innovative characteristics of our FLAT GDT products addressed the critical requirements of the Phoenix Contact SPD design. Bourns is pleased to be a part of their advanced and exciting new TERMITRAB Complete product," said Craig Shipley, Vice President and General Manager of the Communications Division at Bourns.