


Red/Line arresters include all types for the power side of a photovoltaic system. Q: How are surge protective devices also distinguished?Ī: In addition to the different types, we also distinguish between Red/Line and Yellow/Line. If so, it depends on whether the separation distance between the lightning protection system and the PV components has been maintained (see WP018 and WP019). Q: How do I know which type of arrester to use?Ī: This depends on whether an external lightning protection system is installed.

The arresters have a different discharge capacity and voltage protection level (max. Q: Which types of surge arresters are there?Ī: Surge arresters are sub-divided into three classes: Type 1, 2 or 3. To ensure internal protection, it is recommended to use surge protective devices (SPDs) in all areas at risk. External lightning protection includes air-termination systems and down conductors which discharge the lightning current via defined paths to the ground. Q: Which lightning protection measures must be taken in PV systems?Ī: A lightning protection system consists of external and internal lightning protection. In addition, the CLC/TS 50539-12:2013 technical specification is available for Europe. Particularly Supplement 5 to DIN EN 62305-3 provides detailed information on lightning and surge protection for PV systems.
Lightning protection system types series#
Q: Which are the standards to be observed for protecting PV systems in the event of a lightning strike?Ī: The IEC 62305 standard series has to be observed. They are designed for applications operating at relatively low frequencies, such as sub-stations, transformers, generators and MRI equipment, and sophisticated technology is used to determine ground resistivity before the appropriate electrical earthing system is installed, tested and inspected in line with industry standards including BS 7430:2011+A1:2015 Code of Practice for Protective Earthing of Electrical Installations.ĪTLAS members are committed to providing clients with the most appropriate and cost effective lightning protection solution whatever the project and should be the first port of call for all lightning protection needs.These are the most frequently asked questions about the protection of PV systems: The consequences of inadequate lightning protection can be serious and only qualified Specialist Contractors such as those in ATLAS membership have the knowledge and skills to test and inspect the system properly and prepare an accurate report identifying any non-compliance issues.Ī number of ATLAS members are also specially trained in electrical earthing systems, which capture and disperse electrical current to ensure a site remains safe at all times. The myth that ‘lightning never strikes twice’ will not provide a building with the protection that it needs. Provide on-going technical advice and support.Identify surge protection requirements and solutions.Ensure conductors are routed, with joints and right angles kept to a minimum.Carry out soil resistivity testing and extrapolate the information to provide possible solutions in areas of poor ground quality.Undertake risk assessments in accordance with the relevant British Standard, BS EN 62305, to identify the exact level of protection required.
Lightning protection system types full#

The table is designed to help them select the correct level of lightning protection for their project which is compliant with BS EN 62305 rather than simply the lowest price. To ensure that adequate lightning protection is installed on a building, the design risk level for the structure should be calculated in accordance with BS EN 62305-2:2012 Protection Against Lightning – Risk Management, the recognised British Standard for the design, installation and testing of lightning protection systems.ĪTLAS has produced this Simplified Risk Assessment Table providing an essential reference guide for clients who may have little or no information available on the structure and will be faced with varying proposals and quotations. They should be designed, installed and tested in accordance with BS EN 62305, the recognised British Standard, and ATLAS is represented on the BSI committee responsible for the development of the standard. Lightning protection systems are designed to intercept, conduct and disperse a lightning strike safely to earth.
