TAKO since 1979: Supreme External Lightning Protection System in Malaysia

1. Introduction- Explore External Lightning Protection System with TAKO

Huge disasters to Malaysia caused by lightnings, ELPS is a basic tool for security of personal and property. These complex systems provide defense from the stratospheric energy. They intercept lighting hits and direct that energy away from buildings down to the ground. This vital part of building design avoids the collapse of the building structure due to its weak characteristics by protecting the lives of its users.

The main objective of the present piece is to inform readers about the realm of ELPS. This includes a detailed and all-incorporating guide which goes beyond the basic process. We’ll engage an in-depth research on their concepts and offer some insights into such elements that haven’t been addressed enough.

Additionally, we focus on TAKO, a company born and based in MALAYSIA in 1979, which is a domestic leader of ELPS branch. The wide experience level and their unalterable dedication as the best company in the entire lightning protection field places them in a unique position of trust whenever companies are in need of robust and reliable solutions.

An in-depth discussion of ELPS with a sight on the capability of TAKO will enable you to uptake the requisite knowledge to make safe-keeping of your installations and the security of the lives involved.

2. What is an External Lightning Protection System?

Here’s an extended version of the paragraph about External Lightning Protection Systems (ELPS):Here’s an extended version of the paragraph about External Lightning Protection Systems (ELPS):

The main shield against the fury caused by lightning strikes is provided by an External Lightning Protection System (ELPS), which stands as the initial line of defense. This fine-tuned network of components serves as a clever toxin to buildings which takes out the harmful impact of the sun.

Lightning can make you think of a lightning flashing across to a barn which is the safest place in that storm. The ELPS is designed to ensure the maximum concentration of air terminals right at the most vulnerable points. These elements operate as lightning rods. The terminal strokes for the lightning (monopoles in this case) usually are topped with a voltage arrester to serve this purpose.

When the AE is sent off against an air terminal, the large amount of electrical current is then transmitted through a so-called network. Such cables, usually copper-based highly-conducting, convey the current safely to the areas away from the building susceptible to damages.

At the end of the phase inclination, a bonding of the electrode system is a must. These electrodes (sometimes buried deep in the earth) offer a low-resistance route for the lightning surge to quickly travel through, and eventually, be safely dissipated into the ground.

As a matter of fact, an ELPS should be regarded as a directed avenue designed to curtail the force of a lightning attack. As a result, the building and the occupants are protected from the possible negative effects of a possible direct hit.

3. Components of an External Lightning Protection System

Here’s a detailed explanation of the three crucial components of an External Lightning Protection System (ELPS):

1. Air Termination System:

• Function: The gap in the structure acts as the initial point of contact where the lightning strike enters the structure.
• Components:
• Air Terminals: These are the constructs positioned on the topmost elements of a structure like, rooftops or the cones. They will be of different types- finials (those which have sharp pointed structures), cages etc.
• Sparking Gaps (optional): The sparking gaps are in the path of controls that are designed to give air to terminals so as to make it even more successful in protecting the aircraft from lightning.
• Working Principle: As the air termination system is the displayed feature among all materials whose insulation is just not up to the lightning’s standards, it becomes a puny target for a lightning strike. If the lightning strikes the aeronautical terminal close, the electrical field near it gets more amplified. This, in turn, causes spark gap breakdown, which is a gradual discharge of electrical pulse (leader) that bridges the zone between the air conductor and the cloud-ground path. After the protective conductor applied, the main pathway of the lightning strike follows the current and the lightning is instead diverted from directly striking the building.

2. Down Conductor System:

• Function: In this situation, the arresting system serves as the means by which the diverted lightning current travels safely, headed toward ground instead of building structure.
• Components:
• Conductors: Such materials are mostly high-conductivity materials like copper cables with large cross-sectional areas in response allow the high current. They create a perfect seal to the building’s exterior walls using brackets or straps for a safe and secure attachment.
• Working Principle: As soon as the lightning current enters the air terminal’s system it will be through the low-resistance path that was provided by the conductors. Greater surface area of the conductors application ensures the electric current flows smoothly thus, preventing the conductors from overheating and causing damage. Basically, the moving arm of the down conductor system serves as an effective power-controlling channel, diverting the shear energy of the lightning stroke from injury prone spots such as windows, doors and electrical wiring.

3. Earth Termination System:

• Function: Such a system gives ground, a corresponding safe path for the lightning current to neutralize.
• Components:
• Earthing Electrodes: These are straight wires with the length of the bar that we normally pass current through them are made of copper or galvanized steel. Deep into the earth, they are pushed (often to a depth of several meters) because they need to sure conductive layers.
• Earthing Conductors: This is taken to the down conductor system which is further connected to the electrodes, for the continuity of the current path.
• Working Principle: The current, which is already arriving at the position base of the building by way of its down-conductor system, is then pushed into the earthing electrodes.
• Besides, the extension in surface area of electrodes as well as its delivery in low resistivity soil will empower the discharge to quickly fade unharmed.

4. How does an External Lightning Protection System work?

Here’s an extended explanation of the working principle of an external lightning protection system (ELPS):

• Interception: AirTerminals, correctly positioned on the highest level of the urban fabric, perform a cleaning function. Shedding and being at a very high conductivity that material that surrounds them, they are an ideal target for lightning.

• Leader Discharge: Once the lightning’s strike has neared, that is where the effect of electric field around the terminal takes place, consequently, a leader’s discharge phenomenon occurs. The first, the weaker current in the air terminal and lightning channel will be adopted as a bond before the main lightning current is generated.

• Current Channeling: As the leader road take a route, the main current of the strike imitate and follow this same path. The sub-conventional strike missile ensures to hit the target building first, before the ball hits directly onto it.

• Controlled Conduction: The down conductors are like a wire net that carries this current from one place to the other. This is signified by the wires, almost always made of copper cables, that provide a freedom path for the electrons to travel. Large cross-sectional area for them solves the problem of high current granting them ability to carry this current both without overheating or causing damage to the building at all.

• Safe Dissipation: Ultimately the current will end up on the earthing electrodes as well. The peg-shaped conductive devices implanted will be fastened into the ground which is a low-resistance type of the soil. The widespread area of electrodes of these electronics provide the current to transmit and go away safely into the ground.

5. Benefits of using an External Lightning Protection System

Here’s an extended paragraph elaborating on the advantages of installing an external lightning protection system (ELPS):

Shielding Lives and Property:

• Direct Strike Prevention: An ELPS acts as the first line of defense against lightning strikes. By intercepting the lightning current and diverting it away from the building, it significantly reduces the risk of a direct strike that could cause catastrophic damage to the structure. This safeguards the building’s physical integrity, preventing potential collapse or severe structural compromise.
• Enhanced Occupant Safety: A direct lightning strike can not only damage the building but also pose a serious threat to the lives of occupants. The immense electrical current can travel through conductive materials within the structure, putting people at risk of electrical shock or even death. An ELPS effectively diverts this current away from the building’s interior, minimizing the likelihood of such hazards and protecting the well-being of those inside.

Safeguarding Valued Assets:

• Fire Prevention: Lightning strikes are a leading cause of electrical fires. When a lightning current surges through a building, it can ignite flammable materials like wood, insulation, or wiring. An ELPS plays a crucial role in preventing such fires by channeling the current away from these susceptible areas. This not only protects the building itself but also prevents the potential loss of valuable equipment, documents, or even entire businesses.
• Surge Protection: Lightning strikes can induce voltage surges that travel through electrical lines, damaging delicate electronic equipment. An ELPS, by providing a low-resistance path for the lightning current, helps to minimize these surges and safeguards sensitive equipment from potential damage. This protects businesses from costly repairs or replacements and ensures the smooth operation of critical systems.

Additional Advantages:

• Peace of Mind: Knowing that a properly installed ELPS is in place provides significant peace of mind for building owners, managers, and occupants. It signifies a proactive approach to safety and demonstrates a commitment to protecting valuable assets and human life.
• Compliance with Regulations: In many regions, building codes and safety regulations mandate the installation of ELPS for structures exceeding a certain height or located in areas with high lightning activity. Having a compliant ELPS system ensures adherence to these regulations and avoids potential legal ramifications.

6. Standards and Regulations

Here’s an extended paragraph emphasizing the importance of standards and regulations and highlighting TAKO’s commitment to compliance: Here’s an extended paragraph emphasizing the importance of standards and regulations and highlighting TAKO’s commitment to compliance:

Ensuring Effectiveness: The implementing role of standards and regulations.

What’s more, only a well-crafted ELPS, taking into account all installation details and standards, can accomplish its actual purpose. In Malaysia, following the guidelines set forth by MS IEC 62305 (Protection against lightning – Part 1: The cardinal rule of transparency (Truth) is the bedrock of engagement. This holistic criteria include the basic principles, the risk assessment process, and the technical requirements for design, installation, and maintenance of the Emergency Lightning Protection Systems (ELPS).

TAKO’s unwavering commitment to compliance translates into several key advantages: TAKO’s unwavering commitment to compliance translates into several key advantages:

• Guaranteed System Efficacy: In addition, TAKO abides by the strict standards of MS IEC 62305 when building and installing all ELPS systems to ensure that every unit they produce meets their strict quality assurance standards. By means of this attentive approach the risks of a system failure during a lightning strike are minimal, and therefore rescue for your construction and its occupants is kept.
• Peace of Mind Through Compliance: After the standard International Electrotechnical Commission IEC 62305 is followed the authorities can recognize the validity and approval of your ELPS device. This nullifies any issues of legal actions or non-compliance and gives an assurance that the system you use is the safest around; this will provide great peace of mind to the customer.
• Future-Proofing Your Investment: Standards like MS IEC 62305 are in a constant process of update to reflect the latest ideas in science regarding the lightning protection and most applicable practices. TAKO promises to keep itself up-to-date all the time, which assures your ELPS to maintain perfection and accuracy for the future.

TAKO’s Expertise in Standards and Regulations: TAKO’s Expertise in Standards and Regulations:

• Experienced Professionals: TAKO engages a team of skilled and knowledgeable experts who have an extensive knowledge on MS IEC 62305 and other related standards which are the basis standards of the power system. This ensures that the task is handled in such a way relation to the security processes, all aspects of the design, installation and check-up are engineered to be adherent to the strictest safety guidelines.

7. Installation and Maintenance

Safeguarding Lives Through Expert Installation:

Entrusting the installation of an ELPS to qualified professionals is paramount. This intricate system demands specialized knowledge, experience, and adherence to stringent safety protocols.

• Skilled Technicians: Qualified professionals possess the requisite training and expertise to handle the installation process meticulously. This includes the proper selection of materials, precise placement of components, and meticulous execution according to established standards like MS IEC 62305.
• Safety-Focused Approach: Experienced installers prioritize rigorous safety measures throughout the entire process. This ensures the well-being of workers and bystanders while minimizing the risk of accidents or injuries during installation.
• Quality Assurance: Qualified professionals conduct thorough inspections and testing upon completion to guarantee the system’s functionality and compliance with relevant regulations. This provides peace of mind knowing the ELPS is installed correctly and will perform effectively when needed.

Maintaining Peak Performance: Regular Attention is Key

An ELPS, like any intricate system, requires consistent care and maintenance to function optimally over time. Regular maintenance ensures the system remains in top condition and ready to effectively safeguard your structure:

• Proactive Inspections: Scheduled inspections by qualified personnel involve a meticulous examination of all ELPS components. This includes checking for signs of wear and tear, corrosion, or damage that could compromise the system’s effectiveness.
• Preventative Maintenance: Based on the inspection findings, technicians may perform necessary actions such as cleaning components, tightening connections, or replacing parts that show signs of deterioration. This proactive approach helps prevent potential issues from escalating into major problems and ensures the system’s continued reliability.
• Data-Driven Approach: Leading ELPS providers, like TAKO, may utilize inspection data to gain valuable insights into the system’s health. This data can be used to predict future maintenance needs and implement preventative measures, further enhancing the system’s longevity and effectiveness.

8. Cost Considerations

Understanding the Cost Landscape: A Multifaceted Consideration

While it’s crucial to acknowledge that the cost of installing and maintaining an ELPS varies, it’s essential to view this investment within the broader context of risk mitigation and long-term value.

Factors Influencing Cost: Several elements contribute to the overall cost:

• Size and Complexity of the Structure: Larger and more intricate buildings naturally require a more extensive ELPS design, involving a greater number of components and potentially more complex installation procedures. This can lead to higher overall costs.
• Materials Used: The type of materials employed in the ELPS can also impact the price. For instance, high-quality, corrosion-resistant materials offer superior durability but may come at a slightly higher initial cost compared to standard options.
• Labor Costs: The expertise and experience of the professionals involved in installation and maintenance will influence the labor costs associated with the project.

Beyond the Initial Investment: A Long-Term Perspective

While the initial cost of installing an ELPS is a factor to consider, it’s equally important to acknowledge the long-term financial benefits associated with this investment:

• Reduced Risk of Catastrophic Damage: A properly functioning ELPS significantly minimizes the likelihood of a direct lightning strike, potentially saving you from the substantial costs associated with repairing structural damage, replacing damaged equipment, and potentially even covering injuries or loss of life.
• Lower Insurance Premiums: Many insurance companies offer reduced premiums for buildings equipped with compliant ELPS. This ongoing financial benefit can help offset the initial investment over time.
• Enhanced Property Value: An ELPS can demonstrably increase the value of your property by showcasing a proactive approach to safety and compliance with regulations. This can be particularly advantageous when selling or leasing the building.

Striking a Balance:

While cost is a relevant consideration, prioritizing the safety of your building, occupants, and valuable equipment should be paramount. Partnering with a reputable ELPS provider like TAKO allows you to explore cost-effective solutions that utilize high-quality materials while adhering to the crucial aspects of safety and compliance.

By carefully evaluating the long-term financial advantages alongside the initial investment, installing an ELPS becomes a strategic decision that safeguards your assets and fosters a secure environment for your occupants.

9. Conclusion

Lastly, electric stations are fundamental component of lightning stroke prevention with a maximization of human and property safety. From day one, TAKO has become one of the countries’ most widely recognized names for quality and efficient lightning protections having over 40 years of experience in this field.

Disclaimer

The information contained in this blog is for informational and marketing purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Our focus is on providing comprehensive LPS total solution services. This service encompasses a wide range of solutions to design, install, and maintain a complete lightning protection system a to your specific needs. For any questions or to discuss your specific lightning protection needs, please contact us directly.