Lightning Protection and Earthing System Explained
Lightning Arrester: An Overview
A lightning arrester, also known as a surge arrester or lightning diverter, is a protective device used to limit the damaging effects of lightning strikes on electrical systems. It provides a low-resistance path for lightning current to safely flow into the ground, preventing equipment damage, electrical surges, and potential fire hazards.
Earthing: An Overview
Earthing, also referred to as grounding, is the process of connecting electrical systems and equipment to the earth through conductive materials. The primary purpose of earthing is to ensure safety by providing a path for electrical faults and surges to safely dissipate into the ground.
Importance of Lightning Arresters and Earthing
Lightning arresters and proper earthing systems are crucial for several reasons:
- Protection against Lightning Strikes: Lightning arresters intercept lightning strikes and provide a safe path for the lightning current to bypass electrical systems, protecting them from damage and preventing electrical surges.
- Mitigation of Electrical Surges: Lightning arresters, in conjunction with earthing systems, redirect electrical surges caused by lightning strikes or other electrical events into the ground, preventing damage to equipment and reducing the risk of electrical hazards.
- Safety and Fire Prevention: Proper earthing systems ensure that electrical faults, such as short circuits or ground faults, are quickly detected and safely channeled into the ground, minimizing the risk of electrical shock and fire hazards.
- Compliance with Electrical Codes: Lightning arresters and earthing systems are often required by electrical codes and regulations to ensure the safety and reliability of electrical installations. Adhering to these standards helps maintain compliance and ensures the well-being of occupants.
Lightning Arrester Price List
| LA Model | Selling Price | Buy It Now |
| 1M Lightning Arrestor | Rs. 599 |  |
| 1M Lightning Arrestor | Rs. 769 | |
| 1M Lightning Arrestor | Rs. 945 | |
How Lightning Arresters Work
Lightning arresters work by providing a low-resistance path for lightning currents to travel safely into the ground. When a lightning strike occurs, the arrester's metal rods or conductors attract the lightning current, creating an ionized path that guides the current away from the electrical system. This redirection prevents the lightning strike from damaging the system and protects against electrical surges.
Types of Lightning Arresters
There are different types of lightning arresters available, each designed to cater to specific applications and requirements. Here are three common types:
1. Rod/Standard Lightning Arresters
Rod or standard lightning arresters are widely used and consist of a metal rod or conductor connected to an earthing system. They operate by attracting lightning strikes and safely conducting the current to the ground.
2. ESE (Early Streamer Emission) Lightning Arresters
ESE lightning arresters are advanced devices that employ ionization techniques to emit a streamer earlier than the surrounding objects during a lightning event. By doing so, they increase the likelihood of capturing the lightning strike, providing enhanced protection.
3. Surge Arresters
Surge arresters, also known as surge protectors or transient voltage surge suppressors (TVSS), protect electrical systems from transient voltage surges caused by lightning strikes, switching operations, or power grid fluctuations. They divert excess voltage to the ground and limit the amplitude of surges, safeguarding connected equipment.
Installation Considerations for Lightning Arresters
When installing lightning arresters, several factors should be considered:
- Location: Lightning arresters should be strategically placed to provide maximum protection for electrical systems, focusing on areas susceptible to lightning strikes and where equipment is located.
- Earthing: Proper earthing connections are essential for effective lightning arrester operation. Ensure that the lightning arrester is connected to a reliable earthing system, allowing the lightning current to safely dissipate into the ground.
- Surge Protection Coordination: Consider coordinating lightning arresters with surge protection devices and other protective measures to provide comprehensive protection against electrical surges.
- Compliance: Adhere to local electrical codes and regulations regarding the installation of lightning arresters to ensure compliance and system safety.
Consult with professionals experienced in lightning protection to determine the most suitable type of lightning arrester and optimal installation locations for your specific application.
How Earthing Works
Earthing involves creating a conductive path from electrical systems and equipment to the earth. This path allows electrical faults, surges, and static charges to flow safely into the ground, preventing damage to equipment and minimizing electrical hazards.
Types of Earthing Systems
Various earthing systems are used based on soil resistivity, available space, and specific requirements. Here are three common types:
1. Plate Earthing
Plate earthing involves burying a metal plate, such as copper or galvanized iron, in the ground. The plate acts as an electrode to conduct electrical faults or surges into the earth.
2. Rod Earthing
Rod earthing utilizes metal rods, typically made of copper or galvanized iron, driven vertically into the ground. The rods act as conductors to provide an earthing path for electrical currents.
3. Pipe Earthing
Pipe earthing involves using a metal pipe, such as a copper or galvanized iron pipe, driven vertically into the ground. The pipe acts as a conductor to provide a path for electrical faults and surges to dissipate.
Installation Considerations for Earthing Systems
When installing earthing systems, consider the following:
- Location: Choose an appropriate location for the earthing system, considering soil resistivity, accessibility, and proximity to electrical systems and equipment.
- Electrode Material: Select suitable electrode materials, such as copper or galvanized iron, based on local soil conditions and corrosion resistance requirements.
- Connection Integrity: Ensure proper connections between the electrical system, earthing electrodes, and earthing conductors to achieve low-resistance paths for fault currents.
- Measurement and Testing: Perform periodic measurements and testing of the earthing system to verify its effectiveness and compliance with electrical standards.
Professional guidance and expertise are recommended for the design and installation of earthing systems to ensure their effectiveness and compliance with safety standards.