> Protection again the direct effects of lightning



The principle consists of creating one or more preferred impact points for a lightning strike using low  impédance, conductor elements. These then conduct and dissipate the lightning current into the ground. This coherent system enables the lightning to be captured and dissipated whilst providing protection to the structure. There are five types of lightning conductor for protecting structures against lightning:

- Lightning rod,
- Mesh cage,
- Catenary wires,
- Early streamer emission,
- Protection by «natural» components,

Note: The decree of 11 October 1983, applicable from 1st January 1986, forbids the use of radioactive elements in the manufacture, marketing and importing of lightning conductors. Existing lightning conductors may be left in place; they are now however to be generally considered as lightning rods (not ESE’s), particularly with respect to the decree of 28/01/1993, circular no.2 of 28/01/1996 concerning lightning protection of installations classified for environmental protection purposes (ICPE).  Installation standards:
Different types of protection :
Lightning rod
Meshed cage lightning conductor
Catenary wire lightning conductor
Protection using «natural» components
Early streamer emission lightning conductor
Advantages and disadvantages of the different protection types :
Lightning rod
Meshed cage lightning conductor
Catenary wire lightning conductor
Protection using «natural» components
Early streamer emission lightning conductor
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