We put lightning protection on an existing system at 9000' + in
Colorado that had extensive lightning damage over the years. The key
to solving the problem was grounding the system to the metal well
casing, which went down over 200 feet. We also added a some Delta
lightning arrestors. If they really aren't doing anything, it would
be good to know.
At 07:02 PM 9/22/2011, you wrote:
Hi Jeff;
I'd look at using a lightning arrestor that is listed as a lightning
protection device (UL 1449 rev. 3) The Deltas (which I've used for
years) are just wires stuck in some sand. I have never had them
actually work, but as you found, good grounding can do wonders. Take
a look at the new Midnite solar arrestor, it has 8 MOVs. At least
use a Citel, it will protect things till it cooks its single MOV.
Robin Gudgel did some testing and found that the Deltas don't even
do anything till about 7000 volts.
Most electronics are HI pot tested to 2000 v, so the Deltas just
aren't really stopping the damage.
He's planning a video at a 50,000 v test facility to see what the
various protection devices can do.
You're ground grid sounds interesting, how many electrodes did you use?
Have you ever tried the really long electrodes, that you thread
together in 10 ft sections, and can drive as deep as 80 ft? (I
always wanted to try that system)
Did you tie to the rebar in the foundation or anything else interesting?
125 strikes a year is a lot, do you have a strike counter?
Always very interested in Lightning stories,
Ray Walters
On 9/22/2011 4:13 PM, Jeff Oldham wrote:
Yep, lots of copper in the ground is key as is a suppression
specialist. I have a 23kW array on the top of a structure on the
top of a 400' remote island at 8 degrees from the Equator. This
site averages 125 strikes/year. We built a 4/0 CU ground grid
completely around and under the building and have a lightning rod
at each corner of the roof tied to this grid. Delta's everywhere
and solid grounding. In over 5 years we have "only" lost 2 CC's and
one HUB10. I consider this to be exceptional good considering the
exposure. We are looking at both Outback and Midnite solutions and
86 the Deltas.
Good luck, 'cuz w/lightning luck counts for a lot!
-jeff o
From the Solar, Wind and Hydro powered office of Jeff
Oldham/Regenerative SOLutions
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