High frequency current distribution in a structure with application to lightning protection systems
Date
2008-12-04T13:06:24Z
Authors
Swanson, Andrew Graham
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Abstract
In concrete reinforced buildings, the steel framework is required to be bonded and is often
used as a cost effective method of lightning protection. In defining lightning protection
zones, it is essential to understand where the lightning current due to a direct strike will
flow. A number of models exist to evaluate the current distribution, but are often applied
to relatively simple structures.
Using Maxwell’s equations, an approximate skin effect model is proposed and used to eval-
uate the lightning current distribution in a complex structure. A reduced scale model of
a structure, consisting of conductors arranged in rings, is developed to verify the model.
Particular attention is given to the return path of the current, ensuring an even distrib-
ution of the current in the structure.
The equivalent circuit showed an even distribution of current across each conductor at
dc and low frequencies and a distribution that concentrated in the outer conductors for
higher frequencies. The measurements from the structure confirmed that the current con-
centrates in the outer conductors at high frequencies. Applying a reduced scale lightning
impulse, it is shown that the majority of the current flows on the outermost conductors.
Any current on the inner conductors is not only greatly decreased in magnitude, but
significantly slower in time than the applied impulse.
Description
Keywords
lightning protection, lightning current