The early streamer emission (ESE) lead time of a lightning rod is a key concept, particularly for early streamer emission (ESE) lightning rods such as Ellips Or Paraton@ir®This refers to the ability of a ESE (Powered Data Acquisition) system to initiate the lightning capture process before a conventional lightning rod tip can. Here are some important details about this:
Definition :
The lead time to ignition is the time difference between when a ESE emits an ignition (an advanced spark) to capture a lightning bolt and when a traditional lightning rod tip (such as a Franklin tip) would do so under the same conditions.
Functioning :
A ESE detects the increase in electric fields during a thunderstorm and reacts by emitting a flash, creating an upward leader faster than a simple lightning rod tip. This early flash allows the ESE to intercept and channel the lightning discharge before it reaches other potential points of impact.
Importance for Protection:
The advanced triggering mechanism increases the likelihood that a lightning rod will capture a lightning strike compared to a traditional lightning rod tip. This is particularly important for protecting tall structures or those in areas with a high risk of lightning.
Protection Radius:
Thanks to this early initiation, ESEs offer a wider protection radius, meaning they can protect larger areas and taller structures than traditional lightning rods.
Laboratory Measurement:
The ignition lead time is generally measured in a high-voltage laboratory under specific conditions defined in the lightning protection standards for ESEs, such as NF C 17-102 in France or UNE 21186 in Spain.
Implications for the Design of Protection Systems:
This characteristic influences the design and positioning of ESEs in a lightning protection system, allowing for more effective coverage and better protection of structures against direct lightning strikes.
In summary, early streamer emission is a key characteristic of early streamer emission (ESE) lightning rods, contributing to their superior effectiveness in lightning protection compared to traditional lightning rod systems.