Lightning protection systems provide a low-resistance path for lightning to travel from the top of a structure to the ground, preventing damage and injury. Components include lightning arresters, down conductors, and buried electrodes. Surge protectors can also protect electrical systems. Wooden structures and porous building materials are at risk without protection.
Lightning protection systems are designed to protect large structures from damage caused by lightning strikes. These systems allow lightning to travel safely from the top of a structure to the ground, often causing little or no damage. The main components of a lightning protection system include lightning arresters, down conductors and buried electrodes. A building that is not protected with a lightning protection system could suffer serious damage and there is also the possibility of injury to the occupants.
Simply put, a lightning protection system gives lightning an easy path to the ground. Instead of having to pass through wood, masonry or other materials, the system provides a low-resistance or low-impedance path to the ground. Every part of a lightning protection system is usually made of metal, typically aluminum or copper.
Lightning arresters, or air terminals, are some of the major components of a lightning protection system. These long metal rods are usually installed on top of a structure, at its highest point. Some larger properties are eligible for more than one auction. For example, in buildings lightning rods are typically spaced about 20 feet (6 meters) apart. Thus, an 80-foot (24.5-meter) long building may require three or four rods.
Lightning rods are typically attached to other metal components on top of a structure, such as a television antenna. They are also connected to downpipes. These cables or wires connect the lightning rods to an underground metal rod.
Earth rods are the final component of a lightning protection system. These metal rods are buried in the ground, often at a depth of 10 feet (3 meters) or more. Here, the high voltage from the lightning can be safely distributed in the ground. Sometimes, these electrodes can be buried surrounded by salt, which can improve health
electrical connection
to the surrounding land.
A building’s wiring and electrical systems are also prone to damage after a lightning strike. Surge protectors, which can protect these systems, are another component of a lightning protection system. These work by limiting excessive voltage rise.
A lightning protection system can be installed on any number of structures, including buildings, trees, water towers, monuments, and bridges. Wooden structures that are not protected by these systems are at risk of catching fire and burning. Porous or water-laden building materials, such as brick and concrete, can even explode when struck by lightning.
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