Abstract: A novel gap type surge absorber. The surge absorber comprises a plurality of conductive ceramic thin films formed on the surface of a molded insulating body and separated from each other by an extremely narrow gap, electrodes composed of a metallic material fixed to both ends of the plural conductive ceramic thin films and an inert gas sealed between the electrodes. The surge absorber is based on a two-stage discharge mechanism consisting of a discharge due to electrons emitted between the conductive ceramic thin films when a surge voltage is applied to the electrodes and a following creeping discharge generated between the electrodes. The surge absorber has a prolonged life and a good annealing characteristic as well as a very small discharge lag and a small electrostatic capacity and is excellent in cutting off a follow current.

Abstract: A novel gap type surge absorber is disclosed. The surge absorber comprises a plurality of carbon thin films isolated from each others at short distances attached to the surface of an insulating body and one material selected from the group consisting of a metal, an alloy and a conductive adhesive as an electrode fixed to each of the plural carbon thin films. The surge absorber is an element based on a new mechanism that when a surge voltage reaches a prescribed value, a discharge is generated owing to emission of electrons between the carbon thin films and thereby a creeping discharge is initiated between the electrodes. The surge absorber has a small electrostatic capacity as well as a small discharge lag and is capable of cutting off a follow current.