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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. <br><br>
<br>
At 07:02 PM 9/22/2011, you wrote:<br>
<blockquote type=cite class=cite cite="">Hi Jeff;<br>
<br>
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.<br>
Robin Gudgel did some testing and found that the Deltas don't even do
anything till about 7000 volts.<br>
Most electronics are HI pot tested to 2000 v, so the Deltas just aren't
really stopping the damage.<br>
He's planning a video at a 50,000 v test facility to see what the various
protection devices can do.<br><br>
You're ground grid sounds interesting, how many electrodes did you use?
<br>
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)<br>
Did you tie to the rebar in the foundation or anything else interesting?
<br>
125 strikes a year is a lot, do you have a strike counter? <br><br>
Always very interested in Lightning stories,<br><br>
Ray Walters<br><br>
<br><br>
On 9/22/2011 4:13 PM, Jeff Oldham wrote: <br>
<blockquote type=cite class=cite cite="">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.<br>
<br>
Good luck, 'cuz w/lightning luck counts for a lot!<br>
<br>
-jeff o<br>
<br>
From the Solar, Wind and Hydro powered office of Jeff
Oldham/Regenerative SOLutions<br><br>
<br>
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