The growth of nuclear powers around the globe has elevated the threat of high-altitude electromagnetic pulse (HEMP) technology. The fear is that it will be used to disrupt power grids, communication networks and other infrastructure. To address this threat, Transtector offers AC surge protected panels to prevent damage from HEMP as well as overvoltage caused by lightning surge and other power spikes.
Our HEMP-tested AC surge protectors provide overvoltage protection for your equipment and support long-term system reliability by absorbing high amounts of transient energy while maintaining a low clamping voltage.
The Threat
HEMP is an electromagnetic chain reaction created by a nuclear explosion detonated high above our planet’s surface. The gamma ray pulse from the payload reacts with the Earth’s atmosphere to create a HEMP event. Power grids, communication networks and other critical infrastructure can be disrupted.
To create standards and test requirements for building infrastructure that can withstand HEMP, the U.S. military developed MIL-STD-188-125 in the 1990s. It applies to facilities that perform critical, time-urgent command, control, communications, computer, and intelligence functions. The tests for this standard are severe and pass requirements are high.
Recognizing the need for a standard that could be applied to civil life, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released the Electromagnetic Pulse Protection and Restoration Guidelines for Equipment and Facilities in 2016.
The Protection
Transtector’s HEMP-tested AC surge protectors have passed the stringent tests of MIL-STD-188-125 and reflect the DHS’s guidance as well. They reliably protect communication networks, TV/radio broadcasting facilities, computer equipment, economic infrastructure, process control in banking/finance, road and rail signaling systems, mobile networks, utilities and power grids, first responders and civil defense.
Key features of our HEMP-tested AC surge protectors:
- Panel form factor, rated for outdoor use
- Protection from HEMP, lightning surge, other destructive transients
- HEMP-tested per MIL-STD-188-125 E1 and E2 waveforms
- 60dB shielding effectiveness
- Max surge capacity of 160 kA
- Service voltage options of 120/240 Vac split-phase and 120/208 Vac wye
- Use of SASD and MOV hybrid protection technology
- Safety/performance rated to UL Standard 1449, 4th Edition, Type 2
Our HEMP-tested AC surge protectorsare in-stock and available for immediate shipment. They are part of our comprehensive line of AC surge protectors.
For more information, see our brochure on “HEMP Solutions for Civil Infrastructure,” visit Transtector.com or contact us at +1 (208) 635-6400.
