Lightning is one of the strongest forces of nature, each discharge of lightning may have more than 100 million volts, and this is enough to damage the building, cause fire, destroy electrical equipment and endanger the lives of human beings.
This is what has made Lightning Protection Systems a requisite safety measure to industries, commercial buildings, residential projects, hospitals, data centers, and even those that are out in the open.
Here we are going to discuss in much more detail the lightning protection, how it works, what you can do to ensure your safety, the role of lightning arresters in lightning protection of a structure, the difference between lightning arresters using the ESE (Early Streamer Emission) system and the traditional lightning rods, and the way to find a reliable manufacturer of the lightning protection equipment in your project.
What is Lightning Protection System?
Lightning protection system which is designed to safely intercept, capture and redirect lightning energy to the ground without damaging the building or the individuals inside the building.
A complete LPS includes:
1). Air terminals (Lightning Arrester / ESE Arrester / Franklin Rod)
2). Down conductors
3). Earthing/Grounding System
4). Testing & Bonding Components
When lightning strikes a protected area, the electrical system will divert any current into the earth rather than into the building.
How to Stay Safe from Lightning
The safety of lightning is behavioral safety as well as system-based safety.
1). Outdoor Safety Tips
i. It is not advisable to stand under trees, towers, or open places during the storms.
ii. Stay away from metal poles, fences and water bodies.
iii. Mobile phones should not be used in open fields.
iv. If you’re stuck in an open area, crouch low with your hands on your ears.
2). Indoor Safety Tips
i. Do not touch metal doors, windows and plumbing pipes.
ii. Disconnect sensitive electronics (TV, routers, computer, CCTV).
iii. Avoid the use of wired telephones and corded equipment.
3). Infrastructure Safety
i. Install lightning protection system in your building.
ii. Maintain a strong earthing system with proper soil resistance.
iii. Electrical panels should be used with surge protecting devices (SPDs).
iv. Conduct regular earthing & LPS testing.
Infrastructure safety is what prevents fire hazards. equipment damage and building losses.
What Is a Lightning Arrester?
A lightning arrester (also referred to as an air terminal) is a piece of equipment that is mounted on the roof of a building.
its task is to seize the lightning energy and direct it safely to the ground.
What a lightning arrester does?
1). Covers buildings against lightning strikes.
2). Reduces fire risk
3). Eliminates the destruction of electrical equipment.
4). Helps prevent outage and risks.
5). Provides better working conditions.
The two most popular lightning arrester are:
1). ESE Lightning Arrester
2). Conventional Lightning Arrester.
Difference between ESE Lightning Arrester and Conventional Lightning Arrester
Both Lightning Arrester work on same basic concept – intercept lightning.
But their technology, coverage area and installation requirements are very different.
1). ESE Lightning Arrester (Early Streamer Emission)
ESE arresters produce a regulated upward streamer at an earlier stage than usual rods.
This assists in getting lightning at a higher distance and it protects a larger area.
Key Features
i. Large range of protection (up to 60m or even greater depending on model)
ii. Less units needed to cover large areas.
iii. Advanced technology
iv. Perfect in industries, factories, airports, commercial buildings, schools and open spaces.
Advantages
i. Secures extensive spaces using 1 device.
ii. Increased performance in risky areas.
iii. NF C 17-102: The international standards compliance.
iv. Lengthening life and minimal maintenance.
2). Conventional Lightning Rod.
Conventional lightning protection is also referred to as Franklin Rod.
Key Features
i. Protects only a small radius
ii. Large buildings need a number of rods.
iii. Works on a passive principle
iv. Better adapted to smaller buildings.
Disadvantages
i. Large areas are expensive to install.
ii. Require additional down conductors and earthing pits.
iii. Inability to defend expansive industrial areas.
How to choose Trusted and Reliable Manufacturer and Supplier of ESE Lightning Arrester
By selecting the appropriate supplier, there is safety, compliance, durability, and long-term protection.
Here’s what to check before you buy:
1). Certifications and Test Reports.
Make sure that the manufacturer supplies:
i. NF C 17-102 compliance
ii. High Voltage Lab Test Report
iii. Factory Test Report
iv. ISO Certifications
Avoid untested and uncertified products – they fail easily.
2). Product Quality & Material
Good ESE arresters use:
i. High-grade stainless steel
ii. Weather-resistant components
iii. Healthy mechanical building.
iv. Corrosion-proof body
v. The correct testing of ion generators.
Check Build quality before purchasing.
3). After-Sales Support
The manufacturer should be reliable and offer:
i. Installation guidance
ii. Site assessment
iii. Technical data sheets
iv. Maintenance support
v. Warranty (minimum 1-5 years)
4). Protection Radius & Model Options.
Select a manufacturer that has several models including:
i. 30m
ii. 45m
iii. 60m or higher
This assists in choosing an appropriate device based on the size of the building and the level of risk.
5). Industry Experience
Check if the supplier has experience in:
i. Industrial sites
ii. Educational institutes
iii. Hospitals
iv. Oil & Gas sites
v. Government projects
vi. Commercial complexes
An installer who has varied experience in the field of installation is more reliable.
Suggested manufacturer and supplier – SG Power
Author – Trulast