Lightning Protection Rod: History and Development
- Invention by Father Prokop Diviš (1754):
Father Prokop Diviš, a Czech priest and scientist, created the first grounded lightning rod in 1754. - Design Features:
His design included a vertical iron rod with a grounded wire, intended to attract lightning and safely conduct it to the ground. - Benjamin Franklin’s Contribution:
Though Diviš invented the concept first, Benjamin Franklin independently developed a similar design, popularizing the lightning rod across Europe and North America.
Diviš’s early work laid the foundation for modern lightning protection, while Franklin’s design helped spread its use globally. Both contributions were pivotal in advancing electrical safety systems.
How Does a Lightning Protection Rod Work?
A Lightning Protection Rod works by safely directing the path of a lightning strike to the ground. Here’s how it functions:
- Attracts Lightning: The Lightning Protection Rod draws the electrical charge of a lightning strike, guiding it safely.
- Prevents Damage: Instead of allowing the strike to hit the structure, the rod diverts the lightning into a wire system.
- Conducts Electricity: The lightning travels through metal conductors to a grounding system, where it is safely absorbed into the earth.
- Ensures Safety: It protects structures and their occupants from the destructive force of a lightning strike.
- Protects Against Fires: By redirecting the energy safely, the rod prevents fires that might occur from a lightning strike.
A Lightning Protection Rod does not discharge clouds, as commonly thought. Instead, it serves to guide the strike safely to the ground when it nears the structure.
“The process begins with the rod attracting the lightning, followed by the strike being channeled through conductors that direct it to the ground”
This prevents damage to the building, reduces fire risks, and ensures safety for all within the vicinity.
Types of TAKO Lightning Protection Rods
- Exclusive: Includes a solar panel to power electronic functions, making it suitable for off-grid locations where access to power is limited.
- Ecosolar: Also has a solar panel, emphasizing sustainability. Ideal for eco-friendly buildings or green-certified spaces.
- Premium: A high-quality Lightning Protection Rod without a solar panel, built for premium protection in high-value sites like government buildings or corporate headquarters.
- OLP 214: A large and robust model designed for extensive coverage, suitable for factories, large buildings, or open spaces.
- OLP 175: Slightly smaller than OLP 214, offering strong protection for medium-sized structures with moderate lightning risk.
- OLP 130: A mid-range, compact Lightning Protection Rod ideal for commercial buildings or small industrial sites.
- OLP 80: Smaller and simple, designed for lower-rise structures like small commercial buildings or residential homes.
- OLP 50: The smallest model, suited for localized protection in low-risk areas, such as small offices or homes.
All models are certified for international standards, ensuring safe, high-quality protection across different installations.
Why TAKO’s Lightning Protection Rods Save Money
- Affordable Choices: TAKO offers models at various prices, letting businesses pick what fits their budget and needs.
- Long-Lasting Quality: Built to handle tough weather, TAKO’s rods last longer, saving on repairs over time.
- Solar-Powered Options: Models like “Exclusive” and “Ecosolar” use solar panels, lowering electricity costs and ideal for remote locations.
- Right Level of Protection: Different options (OLP 50 to OLP 214) allow businesses to choose only the protection they need, avoiding extra expenses.
- Low Maintenance: TAKO’s rods need minimal upkeep, helping save on ongoing costs.
- Certified and Trusted: International certifications help prevent compliance issues and may reduce insurance costs.
- Prevents Costly Damage: Effective protection helps avoid losses from equipment damage, downtime, and data loss.
TAKo since 1979, it has provided reliable and affordable protection for Malaysian SMEs/SMIs.
How a Lightning Protection Rod Safeguards Structures from Strikes
Lightning protection rods are critical for safeguarding buildings against lightning strikes. By safely channeling electrical energy to the ground, these rods help prevent fires and electrical hazards.
Direct Strike Control:
Mounted at the structure’s highest point, a lightning protection rod attracts lightning, minimizing the risk of strikes to other parts of the building.
Safe Energy Diversion:
When lightning hits the rod, an attached wire conducts the electrical energy safely to the ground, protecting the building from fire and electrocution.
Material and Design:
Available in various forms—like pointed or rounded—lightning rods are made from conductive materials, such as copper and aluminum, for reliable performance.
“Modern lightning protection rods utilize advanced conductive materials to enhance safety, providing efficient grounding solutions for structures.”
How a Lightning Protection Rod Saves Your Business
A lightning protection rod intercepts a strike, safely conducting the electrical charge into the ground and away from building structures and sensitive equipment. Here are the primary benefits:
- Fire Prevention: When lightning directly hits an unprotected building, the intense energy can ignite materials, leading to fires. A protection rod safely dissipates this energy to prevent fires.
- Equipment Protection: Electronics and machinery are vulnerable to lightning surges. A protection rod with surge protection devices (SPDs) guards these assets.
- Business Continuity: Downtime due to lightning damage disrupts operations, impacting productivity and revenue. Protection rods help avoid these costly interruptions.
TAKO’s Advanced Lightning Protection Rod Solutions
TAKO Astatic Technology Sdn. Bhd. has specialized in lightning protection, providing Malaysian businesses with effective, cost-efficient solutions. With over 21 years of experience, TAKO’s systems are designed to meet Malaysian safety standards and protect a wide range of structures.
Key Features of TAKO’s Lightning Protection Systems
TAKO’s lightning protection rods incorporate proven technologies to ensure maximum safety and durability:
- Early Streamer Emission (ESE) Technology: TAKO’s ESE lightning rods can intercept strikes at a greater distance, covering larger areas than conventional rods.
- Surge Protective Devices (SPDs): Integrated SPDs protect sensitive equipment by absorbing voltage spikes caused by lightning.
- Custom Earthing Systems: Designed to safely channel electric charges into the ground, complying with the MS IEC 62305 standard for maximum safety.
How TAKO’s Lightning Protection Rods Stand Out in Malaysian
TAKO’s systems are crafted to deliver comprehensive, reliable protection based on cutting-edge technology and strict adherence to safety standards. Here’s how TAKO stands out:
| Feature | TAKO’s Lightning Protection | Competitors |
| Standards Compliance | Certified to MS IEC 62305 | May lack Malaysian compliance |
| Customization | Tailored designs based on specific site needs | Often uses generic setups |
| High-Quality Materials | Durable, ensuring long-term effectiveness | Materials may be less resilient |
| Cost-Effective Solutions | Free site assessments and optimized installations | Higher costs without initial site evaluations |
TAKO’s expertise in lightning protection rods allows them to create custom systems that prioritize safety while optimizing costs, making it a preferred choice for Malaysian SMEs.
Why TAKO’s Lightning Protection Rods are a Cost-Effective Choice for SMEs/SMIs
TAKO understands the importance of budget-friendly solutions for SMEs. By providing free consultations, TAKO ensures that each system is tailored to the business’s needs without unnecessary expenses. This approach balances cost with high-quality protection.
- Free Site Assessment
TAKO offers a complimentary RM380 site assessment to help businesses identify their protection needs without an upfront cost. - Customized, Efficient Solutions
TAKO’s lightning protection systems are optimized for each site, which reduces the need for additional spending. - Long-Lasting Durability
TAKO uses durable materials, providing systems that offer reliable protection for years with minimal maintenance.
How to Know If You Should Install a Lightning Protection Rod
- Location of Your Property: If you’re in a high-risk lightning zone or near tall structures, a rod is essential for protection.
- Height of the Building: Taller buildings or structures are more likely to attract lightning, making a rod necessary.
- Presence of Flammable Materials: Properties with gas tanks, dry vegetation, or other flammable materials are at risk of fire, which a rod can help prevent.
- Frequent Storms: Areas with frequent thunderstorms or high lightning activity should definitely have lightning protection.
- Safety of People and Property: A lightning protection rod doesn’t only protect your property but also keeps people safe from potentially fatal lightning strikes.
A lightning protection rod is a crucial safety measure that safeguards both your property and people by preventing lightning strikes from causing harm or damage.
Additional Benefits of TAKO’s Lightning Protection Solutions
With TAKO’s lightning protection rods, Malaysian businesses receive a complete protection system that not only prevents damage but also keeps operations running smoothly.
- Surge Protection: Integrated SPDs absorb dangerous voltage spikes, protecting vital equipment from damage.
- Wide Coverage: TAKO’s ESE systems offer extended protection, ideal for factories and high-rise buildings.
- Ongoing Maintenance: TAKO provides regular maintenance services, ensuring systems perform reliably and stay compliant with safety standards.
Protect Your Business Today with TAKO’s Lightning Protection Rod
TAKO’s lightning protection solutions offer Malaysian SMEs a reliable, affordable way to prevent costly lightning damage. Each system is custom-designed and rigorously tested to meet Malaysia’s safety standards, giving business owners peace of mind.
Ready to secure your business? Contact TAKO for a free consultation and find out how a lightning protection rod can protect your property, personnel, and assets from Malaysia’s frequent lightning threats.
F&Q
Do lightning rods actually work?
Yes, they are highly effective in protecting buildings by intercepting lightning and safely directing its energy to the ground, which helps prevent fires, structural damage, and electrical surges.
How far can a lightning rod provide protection?
Typically, the protection range extends roughly to a radius equal to the rod’s height. However, coverage depends on the design, installation, and building size.
Do lightning rods attract lightning bolts?
No, they don’t attract lightning. Instead, they provide a safe pathway for the electrical current if lightning strikes nearby.
Can lightning rods harvest electricity?
No, they aren’t designed to collect or store energy. Their purpose is purely to redirect the massive charge safely into the ground.
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 tailored to your specific needs. For any questions or to discuss your specific lightning protection needs, please contact us directly.
