Fundamentals of Lightning Protection Systems
Course Description
Lightning is a natural electrical discharge that occurs within the Earth's atmosphere. It typically occurs during thunderstorms when strong electric fields develop between clouds and the ground. During a lightning strike, enormous electrical energy is released in a very short period of time. Voltages can reach several million volts, while currents may exceed 200 kiloamperes. Additionally, lightning channels can reach temperatures as high as 30,000 degrees Celsius, which is several times hotter than the surface of the sun. Because of these extreme conditions, lightning has the potential to cause severe structural damage, ignite fires, damage electrical systems, and disrupt communication networks. From an engineering perspective, lightning must be treated as a high-energy transient event that requires careful consideration during the design of electrical and structural systems.
What you'll learn in this course?
Understand the phenomenon and characteristics of lightning.
Identify risks associated with lightning strikes to electrical systems and infrastructure.
Explain the principles of lightning protection systems (LPS).
Recognize the components of external and internal lightning protection.
Understand grounding and bonding requirements for lightning protection.
Apply basic design principles according to international standards.
Identify surge protection methods for electrical equipment.
Prerequisites
Basic understanding of electrical systems, grounding, and electrical safety
Familiarity with power-system equipment and building services is helpful