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Lightning protection of a 200 ft long pipe

Lightning protection of a 200 ft long pipe

Lightning protection of a 200 ft long pipe

(OP)
Guys,
I am trying to protect the following pipe against lightning. What is your suggestion?
1- To put air terminals every 50ft along the pipe
2- Using static mast at both ends of the pipe and running a wire along the pipe?
3- Any other suggestion?

RE: Lightning protection of a 200 ft long pipe

In my opinion, you may follow NFPA 780/2011 chapter:
7.3.2 Zone of Protection for Masts and Overhead Ground Wires. 7.3.2.6 Overhead Ground Wire.
One row of ground wire and supporting mats it is enough-if the pipe will stay in 30 m protecting radius.
It depends on wire material, wind and ice in order to calculate the maximum span. However 100 ft. in my opinion, it will be o.k.

RE: Lightning protection of a 200 ft long pipe

(OP)
The problem is that I have not seen protecting pipes in the past. May be they were all thick enough and grounded that we didn't ground them.

RE: Lightning protection of a 200 ft long pipe

I agree with you. NFPA 780 states:
art.7.1.2.1 “Metallic structures that are electrically continuous; tightly sealed to prevent the escape of liquids, vapors, or gases; and of 4.8mm(3⁄16 in.) thickness or greater to withstand direct strikes in accordance with 7.3.2 shall be considered to be inherently self-protecting.”
However, if there is a flammable material involved, all appurtenances where flammable concentrations of vapor or gas escape to the atmosphere shall be closed or otherwise protected against the entrance of flame.
By-the-way, from art.7.3.2 important is the grounding method and end protection.

RE: Lightning protection of a 200 ft long pipe

(OP)
Thanks a lot for great info.

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