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Detailed Information On Lightning Protection

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 components are grouped into either external or internal protection system. They are all aimed at protecting the structure from potential fire, mechanical destruction and people from injury. The external components usually intercept the strikes through the air-terminals to discharge them to earth via the down-conductor system. Current distribution takes place on the ground via the earth-termination system.

On the other hand, the internal protectors prevent the occurrence of dangerous sparking that might arise in the structure being protected. This is achieved by establishing an equipotential bonding that maintains a separation distance between the LPS components with other electrical conductors in a building. The bonding is achieved by forming an interconnection of all the insulated conductors of the system by means of surge protective gadgets.

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 spark generated by thunder is impossible to be controlled by the use of house powered devices like the UPS due to its overwhelming current magnitude. Therefore, the most effective approach you can adopt to protect your electronics from being short-circuited is by unplugging them from the power supply when storms start striking. In addition, you can also use an insurance cover that will protect them under such perils if you domicile in thunder-prone areas.

Nevertheless, the LPS installed in your structure do not hinder lightning from striking. They are principally used to create a better and safer path to discharge the current to the near ground. The process requires the use of the right components for it to be effective. It is also advisable to disconnect the devices from power sources in times of austere storms.

Therefore, both commercial and residential buildings should be fitted with LPS so as to protect the structures and the dwellers as well. A structure without the systems is usually predisposed to lightning strikes which attract disastrous effects on such structures. Thus, the protection systems should be prioritized when building the structures.




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