Clear Evidence of Lightning Strikes to a Building Installed with Multiple ESE Air Terminals

Abstract

Studies on the failures of the early streamer emission air terminals in the form of lightning bypass observations in Malaysia have been recognized by CIGRE and NFPA for over two decades. In this case study, the subject building was periodically observed for new bypasses, from the time it was completed and installed with just one ESE air terminal to the time after two additional ESE air terminals and Franklin rods were added a few years later. The continued occurrences of bypasses provide clear evidence that the use of multiple ESE air terminals cannot protect a building from being struck by lightning. The incorrect positioning of Franklin rods according to the IEC62305 standard also contributes to the occurrence of bypasses.