# Spark-gap protective element

Canonical URL: https://eloragrid.ai/symbols/spark-gap-protective-element
Publisher: Elora Grid
Updated: 2026-10-13
Lookup label: SPARK GAP
Drawing use: SLD, Schematic
Reference families: IEC, Manufacturer

A spark-gap element provides a documented breakdown path across separated electrodes.

## What it represents

A spark-gap element provides a documented breakdown path across separated electrodes. Its drawing identifies the protective location without implying the same behaviour as a semiconductor clamp.

## How to read it

- Read the gap and protection characteristics from the actual device documentation.
- The preview is an original explanation of this function. Match the actual drawing convention to its legend and the selected equipment documentation.

## Information to show or reference

- Identify connected points
- Reference protection rating
- Show discharge path

## Important distinction

A spark-gap element and a varistor use different protective mechanisms.

## Facts

- Drawing role: Earth or bonding role
- Representation scope: Functional concept; not an official standard graphic or a product footprint
- Public vendor block reference: HFU1_S00371, VFU1_S00371 (Autodesk identifiers; not IEC symbol numbers)
- Identifier status: The short label is a functional lookup label, not an assigned IEC or IEEE symbol number. Any separately listed Autodesk code is a verified vendor block name.

## Public references

- [AutoCAD Electrical: Earthing, sources and surge protection](https://help.autodesk.com/cloudhelp/2021/ENU/AutoCAD-Electrical/files/GUID-1E3FDEAE-B4B2-417C-8075-108AA2C6E509.htm) — Autodesk. Public documentation of this equipment function or named vendor variant; the illustration is independently authored and is not the source graphic.

## Graphic scope

Independent original educational concept illustration by Elora Grid. Not a certified standards graphic or manufacturer footprint. Unitless; not to scale. Original artwork licence: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/. Publisher material is linked only.