> Protection against effects of lightning > 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

Lightning rod :
Advantages Disadvantages
- Ease of installation. - Limited to protecting small size structures.
- Economic - Mechanical withstand constraint of the masts.
- Can be integrated into the building's architecture without changing its aesthetics  
Mesh cage lightning conductor
Advantages Disadvantages
- Reduction of electromagnetic radiating effects within the protected structure. Spreading of lightning currents over several down conductors. - Complex and costly to install.
- Contributes to overall equipotential between the conducting structures and ground. - Often not aesthetic due to the complexity of the structure.
Catenary wire lightning conductor
Advantages Disadvantages
- Reduction of electromagnetic radiating effects within the protected structure. Spreading of lightning currents over several down conductors. - The catenary wires can be a danger in handling areas where lifting equipment is used.
- Contributes to overall equipotential between the conducting structures and ground. - Complex and costly to install.
- Protection of open zones - Often not aesthetic due to the complexity of the structure
Protection by «natural» components
Advantages Disadvantages
- Simplifying of the installation and reduction of costs - Maintenance is difficult (checking of electrical continuity, identification of «natural» structures participating in the protection, etc.)
  - Possible partial or total removal of «natural» elements participating in the protection when the building is modified.
Early streamer emission lightning conductor
Advantages Disadvantages
- Lightning conductor can be installed outside of a dangerous zone. - Minimum lightning conductor height of 2 metres.
- Possible to protect several buildings with the same lightning conductor. - Mechanical withstand constraint of the masts.
- Economic  
- Possible to protect a structure and its surrounding environment at the same time.  
- Protection of open zones.  
- Can be integrated into the building's architecture without changing its aesthetics.  
   
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