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moisture and/or where installations have limited footprints.
A ground inspection/test well should be installed where the end of the down
conductor terminates to the grounding system. This gives an access point
for disconnection and future testing.
Each down conductor should be provided with a means of disconnect for
testing. These disconnect/test terminals may be located 2m above ground
level and should be marked “Lightning Conductor” and the symbol:
When the building or the protected structure has a foundation earth
termination system for the electrical system, the ESE system earth
termination systems should be connected to it with a standardized
conductor.
The ESE system earth termination components should be at least 2 m
distant away from any buried metal pipe or electrical conduit, in case these
conduits are not electrical connected to the main equipotential bonding of
the structure.
Down Conductor Routing Guidelines
Bare or tin-plated copper conductor is recommended for use as the down
conductor, although building steel and alternate materials are also allowed. NF
C 17-102 requirements should be strictly adhered to as regards materials and
design requirements for number and placement of TerraStreamer
®
ESE Terminals
and down conductors.
• The route of the down conductor should be as set out in the original design.
Ensure no structural changes such as new antenna, mast installations, air
conditioning towers or ducting has been installed.
• DO NOT double the down conductor back against itself after changes of
direction (i.e. 180° bend).
•
The down conductor may be installed internally or externally on the
structure; however internal routing may reduce effectiveness and induce
voltage surges into structures.
•
The down conductor should be installed as close (flush) as possible to the
structure.
•
Minimize the number of bends and use the most direct route to the ground
possible.
•
Ensure recommended bend radius is maintained, never less than 20cm.
• If the down conductor has to cross other services make sure it crosses at
right angles using a conduit that extends at least 1m past either side of the
existing service.
• The down conductor should be protected from damage at the lower end by
installing a protective tube/conduit up to 2m from ground level.
•
Provide adequate separation between down conductors, preferably
opposite building corners.