In accordance with the most current versions of ANSI/UL 1449 and the National Electrical Code (NEC), all Vortexx Series R surge protective devices (SPDs) are listed as a Type 1 SPD.
The definition of SPD Types provided by the NEMA Surge Protection Institute are as follows:
Type 1 SPDs (Listed) – Permanently connected, hard-wired SPDs intended for installation between the secondary of the service transformer and the line side of the main service equipment overcurrent protective device, as well as the load side of the main service equipment (i.e. Type 1’s can be installed anywhere within the distribution system). Type 1 SPDs include watt-hour meter socket enclosure type SPDs. Being on the line side of the service disconnect where there are no overcurrent protective devices to protect an SPD, Type 1 SPDs must be listed without the use of an external overcurrent protective device. The Nominal Discharge Current Rating for Type 1 SPDs is either 10kA or 20kA
Type 2 SPDs (Listed) – Permanently connected, hard-wired SPDs intended for installation on the load side of the main service equipment overcurrent protective device. These SPDs may also be installed at the main service equipment but must be installed on the load side of the main service overcurrent protective device. Type 2 SPDs may or may not require an overcurrent protection device per their NRTL listing. If a specific overcurrent protection is required, the SPD’s NRTL listing file and labeling/instructions are required to note the size and type of overcurrent protective device. Note: In some cases, the overcurrent protective device used can impact the nominal discharge rating of the SPD. For example, the SPD may have a 10 kA nominal discharge current rating when protected by a 30 Amp circuit breaker and a 20 kA nominal discharge current rating when protected by a different but specific make and model of overcurrent protection device. The Nominal Discharge Current Rating for Type 2 SPDs is 3 kA, 5 kA, 10 kA, or 20 kA.
As noted in the definition, installation can be anywhere in the system from the transformer (load side) lugs downstream, including directly on the meter. No external overcurrent protection is required.
If installing on a single lug with an existing conductor, PSP Products recommends utilizing a UL listed, or recognized, blade terminal connector. The terminal lays flat on the bottom of the lug, effectively becoming the lug base, and the single stripped conductor is installed above that. Verify that both wires are firmly secured within the lug. Another approved option is to utilize a properly sized and rated “tap” to connect to the incoming service conductors. Keep the connecting leads as short and straight as possible.
As with all SPD installations, always keep the conductor length from the SPD to the connection point in the system as short and straight as possible. Also verify the quality of the entire grounding system, including connections and conductors. Ideally, the grounding electrode system should have a measured resistance of 5 Ohms, or less, going into Earth.
Since Vortexx Series R, by definition, is a passive, parallel connected device, it does not affect the performance or function of either the SPD or the downline equipment when sharing a connection with another set of conductors.