>
>
>> measures <2@vc.net> wrote:
>> A typical lightning strike is c. 100kA. This is beyond the capability of
>> >spark plugs.
>>
>
>No doubt. It's also beyond the capability of open wire line, coax, 2"
>aluminum booms, and #4 copper.
>
#10 Cu can withstand 100kA strikes.
>But once the arc jumps across the plug gap to ground it doesn't matter
>whether the plug can handle it or not - at 100kA won't the subsequent path
>be via ionized air? And then won't the spark plug thingy have done its job?
>
[chortle]
>It's my understanding that the spark plug idea is primarily to prevent
>burning your house down, not to guarantee that your equipment won't get
>zapped. Disconnecting radios during storms is still highly recommended. Even
>then, if you take a direct (100 kA) hit in very close proximity you might
>well have toasted electronics just through high induced currents - there are
>documented cases of this happening.
This is not likely to happen if the feedline is disconnected and laying
on the ground at a goodly distance from your house.
cheers, Doug
- Rich..., 805.386.3734, www.vcnet.com/measures.
end
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