[TowerTalk] Grounding mast?

[jim Jarvis]

Been following the SteppIR v. Stepper.IT thread while travelling.
Had a few minutes to browse both websites, this morning,
and came across a short commentary about lightning and ESD protection  
for the steppIR.

It raises the question of static charge buildup due to wind motion,  
in (one assumes)
drier climates.   Points out lack of conductivity across rotors,  and  
asserts 300-500V per meter
above ground as the possible potential buildup.    Routed into the  
shack, if the charge isn't
bled off.

The discussion recommends a positive ground between the mast, and the  
tower, as well
as a good dissipative ground for the tower itself, as lightning  
protection would dictate.

The physics of this are real.   What amazes me is that this is the  
first time I'm seeing the
discussion, in these terms.   Does anyone actively ground their mast,  
across the rotor?

Firsthand experience?

n2ea