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Lightning Dissipator Arrays

Lightning Dissipator Arrays

Replace lightning rods on towers and structures - LBA Technology offers a wide variety of lightning air terminals in the form of lightning dissipaters. Sometimes called a static dissipater, or static dissipation array, this relatively new and advanced air terminal replaces conventional lightning rods in most applications. It functions as a streamer retarding air terminal.Static dissipation array generically describes a system using point discharge phenomenon to protect towers and antennas and the area around them from a lightning strike. Static dissipation arrays function, as the name implies, by dissipating static electrical charge. Among design factors, the radius of the dissipater electrode cross-section is critical because the process which enables dissipation of static ground charge to the atmosphere is related to electric field intensity (and flux density) surrounding the lightning dissipater. Static dissipation arrays provide, in effect, a "low resistance" route for static ground charge to reach the atmosphere, thus preventing a buildup of the ground charge to the value necessary to trigger a strike on the protected object.Since a static dissipation system must provide a low resistance path to the atmosphere, it seems logical to provide as many discharge points as reasonably possible. By using a large number of air terminal points one can compensate for any loss of efficiency from a theoretical maximum, and spread the dissipater elements over more of the cross-section area of the tower or antenna structure.All objects have natural dissipation points. On a tower structure, charge tends to gather at, and dissipate from the tower top, antennas and antenna mounts, and from corners. The most effective way to mount a dissipater in terms of structure, weight, wind loading, cost and aesthetics is to enhance this natural dissipation by supporting the dissipater from the structure itself at these natural dissipation points. Since most antenna and tower structures are steel, direct attachment provides excellent conductivity. As a practical matter, the dissipater configuration should be tailored to the structure, not vice versa.Our lightning dissipaters are available in configurations which can protect the entire tower structure, or just individual cellular antennas. To accomplish this, dissipaters are available in linear, spot, and candelabra styles. From our proprietary products to those of LBA partner suppliers, our products meet highest quality and reliability standards, certified by standards organizations as required. Consult with LBA for the exact mix of products to most effectively protect your antenna or tower system.

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