Types of Lightning Protection Products
There are three main types of lightning protection systems that are commonly used for homes and buildings. The type of system installed will depend on factors like the structure's size, location, and risk of lightning strikes. Conventional Systems
A conventional Lightning Protection Products is the most common and economical option. It uses air terminals, also called lightning rods, that are placed on the highest points of a building like the roof edges or peaks. The air terminals are connected to a solid copper conductor that routes the electrical charge from the strike through the structure and into the grounding system. The grounding system disperses the charge safely into the earth. Conventional systems offer good protection for smaller buildings in low to moderate risk areas.
Early Streamer Emission Systems
Early streamer emission (ESE) systems were developed more recently and work on a different principle than conventional systems. They use specially designed air terminals that generate very short duration high voltage pulses. These pulses create bidirectional streamers in the air between the terminal and the cloud before a natural lightning strike occurs. This helps control where the lightning is attracted to and gives more time for the strike to safely conduct through the protection system into the ground. ESE systems can protect larger structures and are often used on critical facilities in high risk lightning zones.
Lightning Protection Products: Fine Mesh Systems
A fine mesh system is an option for very large structures where conventional or ESE systems alone may not provide full coverage. It uses a network of interconnected conductors that form a fine mesh overlaying the entire building. The conductors are connected both horizontally across the surface and vertically down to the grounding system. When installed with other types of air terminals, a fine mesh system helps to distribute the lightning's energy more evenly over the protected area. They provide robust protection for things like very tall buildings, aircraft hangars, and chemical plants.
Components of a Lightning Protection System
Air Terminals
As the first part of the system that the lightning contacts, air terminals are a critical component. On a conventional system they are solid copper points or rods mounted on insulation brackets. ESE systems use specialized terminals that house electronic equipment to generate the pre-strokes. They need to be placed high enough, at least 35 feet above the structure, and far enough apart according to coverage calculations.
Conductors
Solid or stranded copper conductors route the lightning discharge safely through the structure. They connect the air terminals to each other in a grid formation and run them down to the main conductor tapes or rails at the perimeter. The conductors must have low electrical resistance to ensure a low-impedance path.
Main Conductor & Bonding Connections
The main conductor, usually a solid copper braid or tape, encircles the protected area at the outer edges. It collects all the downward conductors from the air terminals. Proper bonding connections transfer any induced voltages by the strike throughout the metal parts of the structure so it equalizes the potential.
Ground Terminals & Grounding System
Ground terminals are the electrodes that safely discharge the lightning's energy into the earth. Typically made of copper-bonded steel, they are driven deep into the soil. Radius of protection ground rings or radials connect them to form a low-resistance ground field. Proper installation and soil conditions are critical for the grounding system to work effectively.
Surge Protection Devices
Lightning can induce dangerous surges even on properly installed systems. Surge protection devices (SPDs) like surge arresters are installed where power, data, and communication lines enter the structure. They help divert surges harmlessly to ground before reaching sensitive electronics that need additional safeguards. SPD maintenance is important to replace units if they activate during lightning activity.
Lightning Protection Maintenance
Even the best installed lightning protection system will lose effectiveness over time if not properly maintained. Annual inspections check for any corrosion, breakage or loose connections in the air terminals, conductors, bonding connections and ground field. After major storms, a qualified technician should inspect the whole system for any damages. Replacement of damaged components is necessary to continue offering reliable protection from lightning strikes and surges. Regular maintenance ensures the system performs as designed throughout its service life.
Choosing a Quality Lightning Protection Installer
When choosing who to install a lightning protection system, it is important to select a company qualified in the field. Look for installers accredited by certification bodies like UL or the Lightning Protection Institute (LPI). They will have been trained extensively in system design, installation techniques, inspections and NFPA 780 code compliance. Ask for references from past commercial and residential clients as well as examples of similar projects they have completed. A quality installer can properly assess your risks, design an effective system, and provide installation, maintenance and repairs for lasting protection. Lightning protection products and systems play an important role in mitigating damage from strikes for homes and businesses. Conventional, ESE or fine mesh solutions are available depending on structure type and risk level. Proper installation and periodic maintenance by a qualified contractor ensures these systems perform as intended to safely dissipate lightning currents. With the right products and preventative measures in place, properties can be well protected from the dangers of lightning activity.
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