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ROLE OF BONDING IN LIGHTNING PROTECTION SYSTEMS: Bonding is a crucial aspect of lightning protection systems, ensuring that all metal components are electrically connected to provide a safe path for lightning currents to flow to the ground, thereby preventing damage to the system and adjacent structures.
Understanding Bonding in Lightning Protection Systems
Bonding is a critical component of a lightning protection system, ensuring the structural integrity and safety of the system during a lightning strike. The primary goal of bonding is to create a conductive path for the lightning current to flow safely to the ground, reducing the risk of damage to the structure and adjacent equipment.
Bonding Techniques and Requirements
To ensure effective bonding, it is essential to follow specific guidelines and requirements. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) F 1637 standard recommends a maximum resistance of 1 ohm for the bonding connection between metal components. This can be achieved by using copper bonding jumpers, typically 4 mm in diameter, spaced at intervals of 20 feet or less. The bonding connection should be made to a grounding system designed to handle the expected surge currents.
Bonding Considerations for Solar Systems
In solar installations, it is essential to consider the bonding requirements for the solar panel array, inverter, and grounding system. The National Electric Code (NEC) 2017 Article 250.6 requires that all metal components be bonded together to provide a safe path for lightning currents. This includes bonding the solar panel array, the inverter mounting hardware, and the grounding system. By following these guidelines, solar system installers can ensure a safe and effective lightning protection system for their customers.
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