What is a lightning protection device?
– The function of the external lightning protection system is to block direct lightning strikes through the lightning rod system at the highest point of the structure. transmit high currents through measuring devices and then disperse them to the ground below. Distribute lightning currents underground through the energy dispersion system
– Lightning protection devices are to prevent lightning from spreading along the power supply line and prevent lightning from spreading on the signal line. However, each lightning protection device is made up of three main important parts: Lightning rod (lightning rod – mounted on the highest contact point), lightning conductor (lightning conductor – is the path for the electric current) and grounding part (spreads the scattered electric current)
The function of the lightning protection system
– The lightning protection system is created to collect the electric current of lightning strikes on your structure. Prevent lightning from striking directly on the structure, avoiding creating fires or creating electrical impulses that damage electrical and electronic equipment. The fact that lightning protection devices cannot prevent lightning from striking a structure but rather block lightning above, create a lightning reception point as a path for harmful discharges to follow (UL listed copper or aluminum cables) and safely disperse energy to the ground (grounding network). The components of the lightning protection system must create a complete, continuous circuit to transmit and disperse the electrical current
– Any lightning protection system must comply with the principles, standards, quality and safety requirements of the Fire Prevention and Fighting Law and international fire safety standards
What are the components of lightning protection devices?
A. Lightning arrester
– The main component of the lightning protection system is the lightning rod. This device is installed at the highest point of the structure. This is the device that first contacts the lightning and then transmits it to other components. Lightning rods come in many types and have similar features but can withstand large or small currents depending on the brand and type. Each system is usually equipped with 3 to 5 lightning rods for many layers of protection to ensure the area radius is safe for all lightning strike directions
B. Lightning conductor
– Lightning conductor is an important part of today’s lightning protection equipment. The device has the function of connecting to the lightning rod at one point and one point is connected to the grounding device. Lightning conductor has the function of conducting lightning current from the lightning rod to the grounding system. The structure of the lightning conductor is usually made of bare copper cable or anti-rust steel wire. The cross-section of the conductor is about 6 mm to 10 mm and this wire is absolutely not placed inside the building wall.
– Proper installation must be 50 mm from the wall, the device is fixed with reinforcement devices to hold the wire rigidly, the distance is from 1m to 1.5m. The number of these lightning protection devices depends on the project where you install the device (Usually at least 2 wires. For large projects, more connecting wires are needed to the surrounding areas).
C. Grounding device
– This is the last part that conducts lightning to the ground to disperse the electric current. This device is usually made of anti-rust steel by anti-corrosion paint. The device is 2 to 3 meters long and buried vertically. The surrounding area can be mixed with GEM chemicals – a suitable material for use in places where the soil has poor electrical conductivity and slow lightning dispersion. This part is also buried at least 1 to 2 meters away from the project.
D. Grounding wire
– This part is made of bare steel or copper wires with a cross-section of 0.8cm – 1.4cm. This device is simple, easy to manufacture and install, it connects the ground rods together in the area. It has tight connecting parts that keep the ground rods stable and firm in one position. These ground wires are also buried 50 – 100cm deep and are held tightly under the soil layer
E. Lightning counter (lightning counter)
– The lightning counter, as its specific name suggests, simply counts the number of lightning strikes on the lightning protection system. The main function of this device is to check the effectiveness of the lightning rod. Is the device durable or damaged after many lightning strikes? On the other hand, the Lightning Counter supports the statistics and accurate recording of lightning strikes on a structure and the physical properties of a specific area. Through this device, investors can install a better and more suitable system for the project itself to effectively prevent lightning from affecting daily life and business production.
