Abstract: An electrical device comprising a plurality of electrical assemblies formed as interchangeable modules, aligned in an end-to-end serial array and enclosed in a polymeric weathershed housing, the electrical assemblies being electrically and mechanically coupled together. Each electrical assembly in turn comprises a plurality of electrical components aligned in a row and in electrical connection with one another via their axially-directed ends and under an axially-directed compressive force via a nonconductive filament winding. The electrical components can be varistors, resistors, capacitors, and insulators or any combination thereof. In the case of varistors used to form a surge arrester, for example, voltage ratings can be enlarged merely by serially coupling a plurality of separately wrapped electrical components in the form of MOV blocks.

Abstract: A device for isolating an arrester has first and second electrical terminals mechanically and electrically coupled together. The electrical connection includes a mechanism for automatically interrupting the electrical connection and creating a spark gap. A gas generating device is provided for physically and electrically separating the first and second terminals subsequent to creation of a spark.

Abstract: A device for connecting and then isolating and disconnecting an arrester has a first electrical terminal, a second electrical terminal and first and second circuits for electrically connecting the first and second terminals. The first circuit includes a conductive casing mechanically coupled to the first and second terminals and a spark gap located between the outside of the casing and second terminal. The second circuit includes an interrupting mechanism for automatically interrupting connection between the first and second terminals.

Abstract: An electrical device includes a plurality of electrical assemblies formed as interchangeable modules, aligned in an end-to-end serial array and enclosed in a polymeric weathershed housing, the electrical assemblies being electrically and mechanically coupled together. Each electrical assembly in turn has a plurality of electrical components aligned in a row and in electrical connection with one another via their axially-directed ends and under an axially-directed compressive force via a non-conductive filament winding. A plastic film barrier laterally surrounding the electrical components is interposed between the electrical components and the filament winding. A surge arrester with voltage ratings can be enlarged merely by serially coupling a plurality of separately wrapped electrical components in the form of MOV blocks. Enclosing the electrical assemblies is a weathershed housing.

Abstract: An electrical assembly comprising a plurality of electrical components aligned in a row under an axial load and wrapped with filament windings. The wrapped components are then preferably enclosed in a housing. MOV blocks can be used as the electrical components, resulting in a surge arrester having excellent heat transfer properties as well as improved tensile and cantilever strengths. The electrical components can be varistors, resistors, capacitors and insulators or any combination thereof.