What is the working principle of an RC snubber?
1 Answers
The principle is based on the fact that the voltage across a capacitor cannot change instantaneously, and a resistor is used to absorb energy. It is an electronic protection circuit designed to absorb instantaneous high voltages. The RC snubber can effectively suppress voltage oscillations and surge currents generated during high-voltage operations, rapidly attenuating high-frequency oscillation surge currents, thereby reducing the impact on load equipment. It is highly effective in preventing false operations of high-voltage protection due to surges. Additional information is as follows: 1. Usage and Maintenance: The RC snubber is a maintenance-free device. When it is taken out of service or inspected, it must be fully discharged until completely depleted; otherwise, it may pose a safety hazard. The RC snubber must undergo an annual preventive test. The withstand voltage test can be conducted using either power frequency or DC, with the test voltage being the same as the acceptance test. 2. Usage Guidelines: The RC snubber should be connected between the lower end of the current transformer on the circuit breaker's outgoing line and the ground on the side of the protected electrical equipment. The closer it is to the protected equipment, the better the effect. The RC snubber is suitable for protecting motors with capacities ranging from 100 to 10,000 KW, transformers with capacities from 100 to 45,000 KVA, and capacitors with capacities from 1,000 to 10,000 Kvar.