In some cases, customers can ask for lightning protection only, with the assumption that lightning protection alone will provide all the protection they need. If a site doesn’t have proper grounding and bonding in place, the earth's potential rise caused by a lightning strike may result in arcing and side flashing between metallic objects on the site and cause damage to the electrical equipment. Costs can range from degradation of electrical or electronic systems to data loss and equipment destruction. Some of these costs can appear relatively minor, but the loss of an essential service or revenue associated with a facility or plant shutdown can be enormous. The lightning protection and grounding systems dissipate most of the energy to the earth. However, residual energy can still harm sensitive electronic systems, which is why the implementation of lightning surge protection devices is equally important.

Secondly, anytime you have a wire coming into a building from the outside world, that wire is perfectly capable of delivering all types of mischief into the facility. This is why lightning surge protection devices should be installed. 

An SPD is a device that becomes conductive at some voltage. As the potential rises and the SPD becomes conductive, it shunts the surge back to where it came. This is required by NFPA 780 and UL both on all services where they enter the structure (AC power, telephone, RF, data, etc.)

Here are 3 quick surge protection tips that you as a facility owner, need to know:

1. Use point-of-use surge protection devices (SPDs), which protect electronics and appliances when combined with a good grounding system.
2. Have a professional check to ensure that the grounding system is up to code before installing any new lightning surge protection device.
3. Explore the option of panel SPDs, which mount in or on the main electrical panel to provide protection for the entire electrical system.

LEC’s lightning surge protection devices offering integrates innovative designs, modern features, and proprietary technology, protecting against sudden and momentary transients, as well as long-term exposure to Temporary over Voltages (TOVs). All these benefits are part of our superior performance when it comes to the SPD offering, plus max surge ratings and compliance with key industry standards, including IEC, UL, and more.

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