1- Design of the External Lightning Protection Installation (IEPF)
The design of an IEPF is based on the following data:
- The level of protection,
- The dimensions and materials of the structure to be protected,
- The environment, destination and occupancy of the structure,
- The vulnerability of the structure (structural points, networks, conduits, etc.).
2- Installation of the IEPF
Prior to the implementation of the IEPF, a risk assessment and project design must be carried out.
The installation must comply with the NFC 17-102:2011 standard at the expense of any local standard. The application of a local standard in contradiction with the NFC 17-102:2011 standard will be the responsibility of the installer.
The early streamer emitter lightning rod must be installed at the highest part of the structure. It must constitute the highest point of the area to be protected (at least 2 m above the area it protects, including antennas, cooling towers, tanks, etc.).
Risk assessment and design of your project in LPS Manager:
- Compliance with the NFC 17-102: 2011 standard
- Extension of your product warranty
3- Execution file - Initial verification
The execution file must include all the design and installation elements of the IEPF as well as the characteristics of the protection, the early streamer emitter lightning rod and the earthing.
This file must be available for all future checks and updated after each maintenance operation.
Implementation of your IEPF by a qualified professional is strongly recommended.
In accordance with the NFC 17-102:2011 standard, the lightning rod with an initiation device must be connected to two separate conductors and two earth connections.
Initial check in LPS Manager:
- Compliance with the NFC 17-102: 2011 standard
- Extension of your product warranty
4- Components of an External Lightning Protection Installation (IEPF)
Legend :
1 one or more lightning rods with initiation device;
2 connection component;
3 At least two specific down conductors;
4 a control joint for each specific down conductor;
5 an earth connection for each specific down conductor;
6 earth connection at the bottom of the excavation (grounding of the structure);
7 power cable;
8 power distribution panel with surge arresters;
9 main telecommunications distribution board with
lightning arresters;
10 telecommunications cable with surge arresters;
11 one or more equipotentiality bar(s);
12 one or more equipotential connection(s) between the earth connections;
13 disconnectable connection device;
14 one or more equipotential connection(s) (direct(s) or via a
insulation spark gap);
15 main earth terminal;
16 electrical equipment;
17 metal pipe;
18 one or more equipotential connection(s) through a spark gap to
antenna mast.