Separation distance is key

Maintaining a separation distance is crucial to prevent dangerous flashovers between earthed parts of the building and the lightning-current-carrying components of the lightning protection system. This prevents sparking, which can otherwise lead to personal injury, property damage or fires. 

The lightning current is conducted into the down conductor and into the ground in a controlled manner by means of air-termination systems. The separation distance forms the basis for the design of the lightning protection system. The minimum clearance that must be maintained between the air-termination system or down conductor and the metallic conductive parts of the building structure is determined.  

The challenges involved in maintaining the separation distance are manifold 
Modern architecture sometimes makes it difficult to install down conductors with GRP spacers for aesthetic reasons. And space is often in short supply on roofs – especially for extensions, renovations and changes in how existing buildings are used. The roof surface is used, for example, for ventilation and air-conditioning technology, cooling systems, photovoltaic systems or elevator shafts. Conventional lightning protection systems cannot fulfil the specifications for the required separation distance here.  

HVI Lightning Protection makes it easy to maintain the necessary separation distances. You can also use our detailed instructions and test reports for reliable installation and regular inspection of your lightning protection systems.