What effect does the housing of a lightning arrestor have in case of a failure?

The housing of a lightning arrestor plays a crucial role in maintaining safety and integrity during a failure. When the arrestor fails, the housing is designed to contain and mitigate the harmful effects of the electrical discharge. This protective feature minimizes the risk of extraneous electrical surges damaging surrounding equipment or resulting in hazardous conditions. The material and construction of the housing help to divert the energy safely away from sensitive components, thereby reducing the likelihood of widespread damage and ensuring the safety of the electrical system. In essence, the housing acts as a protective barrier that limits the impact of failure, making it an essential element in the overall design and function of a lightning arrestor.