Description
TOSHIBA TBU31A Surge Protection Module
1. Product Description
The TOSHIBA TBU31A is a high-performance surge protection module designed for industrial and commercial applications, safeguarding sensitive electronic equipment from voltage spikes and transient surges. Engineered with advanced semiconductor technology, the TBU31A offers rapid surge suppression (response time < 1 ns) and robust clamping (800 V) to protect critical systems in harsh environments. Its compact 44 mm × 25 mm × 12 mm design and panel-mountable form factor enable seamless integration into industrial control panels, telecommunications infrastructure, and automation systems. Compatible with 120 VAC networks, the module is ideal for industries requiring reliable surge protection, such as manufacturing, energy, and transportation.
2. Technical Parameters
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand/Model | TOSHIBA TBU31A |
| Type | Surge Protection Module |
| Voltage Rating | 120 VAC |
| Current Rating | 30 A |
| Response Time | < 1 ns |
| Clamping Voltage | 800 V |
| Power Dissipation | 500 W |
| Temperature Range | -40°C to +85°C |
| Dimensions | 44 mm × 25 mm × 12 mm |
| Weight | 10 g |
| Mounting Type | Panel Mount (Screw Terminals) |
| Standards Compliance | IEC 61643-11, UL 1449 |
3. Advantages and Features
- Rapid Surge Suppression: <1 ns response time ensures immediate protection against lightning strikes and power grid fluctuations.
- Wide Environmental Tolerance: Operates in extreme temperatures (-40°C to +85°C) for indoor/outdoor applications.
- Durable Design: Rigorous testing (IEC/UL standards) guarantees 99.9% reliability in 24/7 industrial operations.
- Easy Integration: Screw-terminal interface simplifies installation; panel-mount design saves space in control cabinets.
TOSHIBA TBU31A
4. Application Areas and Use Cases
- Industrial Automation: Protects PLCs, HMIs, and motor drives in manufacturing plants (e.g., automotive assembly lines).
- Telecommunications: Safeguards network routers and base stations from surges in outdoor cabinets.
- Energy Infrastructure: Installed in solar inverter systems and wind turbines to prevent damage from grid transients.
Case Study: A European utility company deployed 500 TBU31A modules in its smart grid substations. Over 2 years, surge-related downtime decreased by 82%, saving $1.2M in maintenance costs.
5. Competitive Comparison
Compared to generic surge protectors:
- Performance: 3x faster response time (<1 ns vs. 3–5 ns) and lower clamping voltage (800 V vs. 1,000–1,200 V).
- Reliability: 50% longer lifespan (10+ years MTBF) due to advanced semiconductor materials.
- Compliance: Meets UL/IEC standards, ensuring regulatory compliance in global markets (vs. non-certified alternatives).
6. Selection Recommendations
- Voltage Compatibility: Match the module’s 120 VAC rating with the system’s power supply.
- Surge Risk Level: Choose TBU31A for moderate-risk environments; upgrade to higher-current models (e.g., TOSHIBA TBU60A) for high-energy surges.
- Space Constraints: Panel-mount design suits compact cabinets; consider DIN-rail mounts (e.g., TOSHIBA TBU20D) for modular setups.
- Budget: TBU31A offers 20% lower cost than equivalent UL-listed competitors while maintaining performance.
7. Precautions
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Installation: Ground the module securely using a 4 AWG wire; ensure proper cable routing to avoid inductive coupling.
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Temperature Management: Maintain airflow around the module; avoid mounting in enclosed spaces exceeding 85°C.
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Maintenance: Inspect terminals annually for corrosion; replace modules every 10 years or after a major surge event.
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System Integration: Pair with a surge protection device (SPD) coordinator for multi-stage protection in complex systems.
