A simulation model for electromagnetic transients in lightning protection systems

Abstract

This paper deals with the evaluation of electromagnetic transients in a lightning protection system (LPS). A field approach is used, based on the numerical solution of a modified version of the thin-wire electric field integral equation in the frequency domain. Time profiles of interesting electromagnetic quantities are computed by using a discrete fast Fourier transform algorithm. The model takes into account coupling effects among aerial parts and ground electrodes in order to correctly estimate the quantities which can determine electromagnetic hazard inside the LPS; transient touch and step voltages can be easily evaluated also taking into account the human body presence on the soil surface. To this purpose, a crucial point is the accurate evaluation of the current distribution among the earthed branches of the LPS and this needs to correctly consider mutual electromagnetic interference among the aerial parts and the earth-termination system of the same LPS. A suitable approach to consider the lossy soil is employed. Validation of the proposed model is performed by comparing the results with those measured and computed available in technical literature. Simulation examples related to realistic LPS structures are presented and discussed to show the flexibility and the accuracy of the model in the range of practical applications inside the volume to be protected.