Useful Notes On Lightning Protection

الجمعة، 19 أبريل 2019

By Martha Allen


Residential and commercial structures are usually predisposed to several perils that lead to disastrous outcomes. Thus, the structures have to be fitted with lightning protection systems. They are integrative developments pioneered by constructors so as to abide by the set engineering codes and regulations. They are also used when launching space shuttles to discharge static charges since they are highly vulnerable to thunder sparks.

The LPS entails the use of latest conducting components. The exposed component that is found on the artic part of a structure is the air terminal rod which has a protrusion with a sphere head. They are used for lightning discharge. The rods usually connect to the conductor cables which convey the charge to the earth. The current conducts through the ground rods where they are buried deeper in the ground near the building or structure being protected.

The overall protection system comprises of both external and internal components that are involved for a safer flow of a current. They are all aimed at protecting the building from destructive incidences like fire and people injured. The external components function by intercepting the sparks by use of rods and thus discharging them to the ground via the conductor cables. The current is thus distributed in the earth via the ground-termination system.

Internal protection systems specifically protect the structures from perilous sparking that can arise upon the strike of thunder. This is attained by setting up a bonding connection that ensures the distance of separation between the system installed and other electrically conducting elements in the structure. The bonding is equipotential and thus it interconnects all the other conductors in the system by surge protective devices.

In a structure that lacks the protective system, the lightning spike can conduct through any electrically conducting material or component. They include; water in taps, electric cables, gas pipes, phones, and even the roof if it is made of steel. However, installing the systems does not necessarily prevent the thunder from striking but creates a safe and convenient path where the discharged currents will flow to the ground. The external components team up to carry the massive current down the building.

The current generated from a thunderstorm spike is usually high to protect by use of in-house power supply equipment such the UPS and surge protectors. Thus, the best and most effective way to protect your electrical devices from such strikes is the by unplugging all power cables and telephone connections when a major thunderstorm strikes near your structure. In addition, you can also ensure such devices under a specific policy if you reside in thunder sensitive locations.

Moreover, the systems are not fitted to prevent the electrical discharge from occurring. They are primarily used to provide a safe and better passage for current down to the ground. The system works better if the right components are used in their installation. However, it is wiser to unplug the costly devices when stormy rains start.

Thus, dwelling structures are required by the statutes to be installed with protection systems in order to protect human life and properties in such buildings. An unprotected structure is vulnerable to get stroked by thunderstorm charges which results in calamitous effects. Therefore, the systems should be given precedence when constructing buildings.




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