[TowerTalk] Grounding -- yet again

[Wes]

W8JI.com

On 10/20/2021 8:55 AM, Dave Sublette wrote:
>   I am in the process of upgrading my grounding systems.  I have the new
> book on order from ARRL and a couple of retired power company engineers to
> advise.  I won't go into details, but I have a question about one item on
> the agenda.
>
> I have a full quarter wave vertical made from Rohn 45.  It has the
> broadcast tower insulator section 27 feet above ground and I use 1/8th wave
> radials with an inductor for tuning to resonance.  It works.  I'm trying to
> decide how to protect against lightning.  So far, I have two thoughts:  1)
> wind an RF choke to be connected across one of the insulators.  It would
> have to be replaced after every hit, I suspect.  2) build a spark gap on
> each insulator.  The tips would have to be replaced after every stroke.
> Should it have sharp tips or a ball?
>
> What are your thoughts on the problem?  All advice cheerfully received.
>
> Thanks and 73,
>
> Dve, K4TO
>