Lightning can not only be dangerous for you, but for your cooling equipment, as well. In order to protect your towers, it’s important to install a lightning protection system. In this blog, we’ll explain the correct materials and installation procedures for these systems so you can lessen your equipment’s exposure to lightning. Some topics we’ll cover include:
Component Standards
When installing a lightning protection system, all your equipment should be new and constructed to suit the location where it’s being installed. Each component should also be in accordance with accepted industry practices, as well as UL and NFPA standards.
Generally, all materials should be constructed of copper and/or copper/bronze. However, in some instances where ammonia, hydrogen sulfide, or other chemicals are present that would damage this material, aluminum should be used. But, aluminum should not be installed in unusually wet environments, like:
Except for the circumstances above, aluminum components should not be allowed to contact with copper, bronze, or brass — this can cause the dissimilar metals to corrode. Instead, bimetallic fittings should be used to connect pieces of a copper system.
Quality Assurance
In order to ensure your lightning protection system is quality and up to industry standards, there are some codes your parts must align with and inspections that must be completed.
Code Compliance
Lightning protection systems should comply with the current editions of the National Fire Protection Association’s NFPA-780 and Underwriters Laboratories' UL96A. These codes describe how a protection system should be installed based on their design specifications. It’s also crucial that the system owner has a complete shop drawing of their system that shows the:
Inspection
Inspecting your system once the installation has been completed is important to ensure it will run smoothly and work as intended. This inspection should be done by a UL-Listed lightning protection contractor. A system that has been installed incorrectly can be dangerous, so inspection is necessary before full implementation.
Execution
In order to properly execute the installation of a lightning protection system, you must consider each component of the system and the specifications to which they must be installed. Not only is it important to ensure you have each part, but also that you set each one up correctly so it can function properly. The components you’ll need to have and take into consideration when installing include:
Workmanship
During construction, the system installer should coordinate with other trades to ensure all equipment has been installed in a neat and workman-like manner. Upon completion of the installation, application for certification under the UL
During construction, the system installer should coordinate with other trades to ensure all equipment has been installed in a neat and workmanlike manner. Upon completion of the installation, application for certification under the UL “Master Label” certification program should be made.
How Can CTI Assist With Your Cooling Tower Needs?
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