Why are surge arresters used with switchgear?

Surge arresters are utilized with switchgear primarily to protect equipment from voltage spikes. Voltage spikes, often caused by lightning strikes or switching events within the electrical system, can lead to transient overvoltages that put sensitive electrical components at risk of damage.

Surge arresters act as protective devices that provide a path for the excessive voltage to be diverted safely to the ground. This prevents the high voltage from reaching critical components of the switchgear and the overall power system, ensuring their longevity and reliable operation. By clamping the transient overvoltages to a safe level, surge arresters enhance the stability and resilience of electrical installations, making them a crucial component in safeguarding equipment within switchgear systems.

Other choices, like improving aesthetics, increasing current capacity, or facilitating maintenance, do not directly relate to the protective function that surge arresters serve in an electrical setup. The core purpose is focused on protecting against sudden spikes in voltage, which is essential for maintaining system integrity.