Lightning Arrester
A lightning arrester also known as a surge arrester or rod. It is design to protect electrical systems and equipment from damage.Providing a low-resistance path for the lightning current to follow, it protects sensitive electronics and prevents potential damage and hazards.
When installed on buildings, power lines, or other structures, it diverts the high-voltage electrical current generated by lightning away from sensitive equipment.
Types of Lightning Arrester
1) Rod or Rod Gap Lightning Arrestor: This type consists of a metal rod placed at the highest point of a structure.
2) Horn Gap Lightning Arrestor: The horn gap use a horn-shaped metal structure to provide a larger surface area for the lightning to strike.
3) Valve-Type Lightning Arrestor: Valve-type employs a series of spark gaps and non-linear resistors to control the flow of lightning energy.
Principle of Lightning Arrester
- The principle behind it is to provide a low-impedance path for the lightning current to follow, diverting it away from sensitive equipment.
- It works based on the concept of voltage breakdown and discharge.
- When a lightning strike or surge occurs, the voltage across the arrester increases beyond its standard operating voltage.
- They typically are installed when electrical power enters a building or facility.
- They are essential to electrical protection systems, safeguarding equipment, structures, and personnel from the destructive power of lightning and electrical surges.
Working of Lightning Arrester
It typically consists of a metal rod or conductor connected to the ground. The surge of electricity is directed toward the arrester.
The arrester’s design and materials are such that it can handle the high levels of voltage and current associated with lightning strikes. The conductor is usually made of materials with good electrical conductivity, such as copper or aluminium, to efficiently conduct the surge to the ground.
Main parts of Lightning Arrester
- Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV): is the key component. It is make of a unique metal oxide material that exhibits a high resistance under normal operating conditions.
- Housing: It is enclose in protective housing made of durable and non-conductive material, porcelain or polymer.
- Terminal Connections: They are equipped with terminal connections that facilitate the connection to the electrical system being protect.
- Grounding System: is important to effectively divert the lightning current.
- Insulating Support: Within the housing, insulating supports keep the internal components securely in place.
- Protective Gap: is a small air gap separating the main terminals.
Lightning Arrester Price In Pakistan
In Pakistan, they vary depending on the brand, type, and specifications. On average, you can expect to find them in the price range of PKR 500 to PKR 5,000. However, it’s important to note that prices may differ based on the quality and features of different manufacturers.
Lightning Arrester Design Calculation
It is a crucial component design to protect electrical systems from damage cause by lightning strikes.
When lightning strikes, it generates a high-voltage surge that can potentially harm sensitive equipment. To ensure effective protection, it involves calculations based on the system’s voltage level, the expected lightning surge current, and the arrester’s voltage rating.
These calculations help determine the appropriate size and rating of the arrester, ensuring it can safely divert the lightning surge and safeguard the electrical system from potential damage.
Lightning Arrester Installation Guide
- Choose the appropriate location for the installation.
- Ensure that the installation site is free from obstructions and accessible for maintenance.
- Consult local regulations and guidelines for the correct procedure.
- Begin by inspecting it and all its components for damage or defects.
- Prepare the mounting surface by cleaning it thoroughly and ensuring it is stable and secure.
- Mount the arrester securely using suitable brackets or fasteners.
- Connect the arrester to the grounding system using copper or aluminium conductors.
- Ensure proper bonding between the arrester, grounding system, and any other nearby metal structures.
- Verify that all connections are tight and secure, and use appropriate torque values for fasteners.
- Inspect the installation to confirm that the lightning arrester is vertically and not tilted.
- Test the arrester after installation to ensure its functionality and effectiveness.
- Regularly inspect and maintain the lightning arrester as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Keep a record of the lightning arrester installation, including installation date, inspection dates, and any maintenance performed.
Lightning Arrester Manufacturers
When it comes to lightning protection, one essential component is the lightning arrester. Several reputable manufacturers specialize in producing them in high-quality to safeguard buildings and structures from the destructive power of lightning strikes.
The manufacturers, along with others in the industry, play a vital role in safeguarding structures and preventing the potentially devastating consequences of lightning strikes.
Metal used as Lightning Arrester
The metal commonly used is zinc. Zinc is chosen for its excellent electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance properties, making it an ideal material for this application.
When lightning strikes, the lightning arrester provides a path of least resistance, diverting the electrical energy safely to the ground and preventing potential damage to the protected equipment.
Is Lightning Arrester safe?
Yes, lightning arresters are safe and are crucial in protecting buildings and structures from the damaging effects of lightning strikes. A lightning arrester is design to divert the high-voltage current produced by lightning from sensitive equipment and structures.
Difference between a lightning arrester and a surge absorber
A lightning arrester, also know as a lightning rod, is primarily design to safeguard against lightning strikes. It provides a path of least resistance for lightning, diverting the electrical energy away from sensitive equipment and structures.
On the other hand, a surge absorber called a surge protector or surge suppressor, defends against voltage spikes originating from various sources, including lightning strikes, power grid fluctuations, or internal system events.
Where is the lightning arrester located?
Lightning arresters are commonly install on utility poles, rooftops, or within electrical substations. Their purpose is to divert the excessive electrical energy generated by lightning or voltage spikes away from sensitive equipment and into the ground, preventing damage and ensuring the safety of the connected devices.
What material is an arrester?
It is typically made of a unique material called a metal oxide varistor (MOV). A MOV is a ceramic compound made from zinc oxide and other metal oxides, which exhibits a unique property called voltage-dependent nonlinear resistance.
Lightning arrester play a vital role in safeguarding our infrastructure from the devastating effects of lightning strikes. By diverting electrical energy safely to the ground, they mitigate the risks associated with lightning strikes. Preserving the integrity and reliability of our modern infrastructure. Through regular maintenance and testing, we can ensure the ongoing effectiveness of these silent guardians, securing the foundation of our interconnected world.