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Electricity has changed the way humans live their lives for the better. From making the world a smaller place to reducing effort and optimising speed, electricity is indispensable. However, in certain cases, electricity can turn against us and cause loss of life, property, and other damage. Lightning and Earthing systems are designed to help harness the power of electricity while exercising safety. Continue reading to learn more about how such systems and tools help make structures safe for inhabitation and act as a barrier against damage caused due to faulty electrical systems.  

What are Earthing and Lightning Protection Systems? 

Earthing is a method designed to prevent electric shocks and the damage that follows. Earthing, also known as grounding, is used to manage electrical overload and the resultant unbalancing. Earthing protection systems are usually located within the earth, in a pot between the property and the underground. Such earthing pits are considered neutral grounds for electrical purges. Earthing provides protection to metal parts that may not directly form the electrical circuits but can cause harm in case of a defect of voltage fluctuations. Earthing systems control voltage jumps and prevents conditions that can harm the electrical circuit and people residing in the premises. Similarly, grounding protects components of the circuit, either directly or indirectly. Earthing equipment includes: 

– Copper earth rods 

– Copper lattice earth mats  

– Copper plates 

– Copper earth tapes 

– Bentonite powder for chemical earthing 

Lightning Protection Systems are specifically created to protect property from extreme weather conditions. Lightning is the result of visible electrical discharge within or between clouds. When lightning passes through the air, it releases heat and emits an electrical spark. Essentially, lightning is a direct current and carries a charge of almost 300 million volts. As such, lightning can wreak havoc on electrical systems. Lightning protection systems prevent just that. A lightning conductor works on the induction principle and develops a charge opposite that of a cloud passing over it. It safely attracts the charged particles from the cloud and moves it to the ground via earthing systems. Lightning Protection Systems consist of external and internal devices that help intercept lightning flashes and conduct lightning safely to the earth, respectively. Lightning Protection Systems include: 

– Lightning Rods 

– Copper and Aluminum Conductor Cables 

– Ground Rods 

– Surge Protection Devices like lightning arrestors 

What is the Difference Between Lightning Arrestors and Earthing Pits? 

While lightning arrestors and earthing puts are integral parts of electrical safety systems, they are distinct protection measures and function in different ways. Here is how they differ: 

Purpose: Lighting arrestors are designed to protect buildings and electrical systems from potential damage caused by lightning strikes. They play an instrumental role in diverting high voltage from charged clouds to the ground. On the other hand, earthing pits create a safe path for faulty current to be purged into the ground. Creating a route for overflow current helps protect property and people from electrical shocks, structural damage, and fires.  

Function: Lightning arrestors are installed externally, at the top of buildings. They create a pathway for lightning surges to reach the ground without causing damage to electrical wiring or structures. Meanwhile, an earthing pit is filled with conductive materials like salt, charcoal, earth electrodes and is located below ground. It creates a low-resistance connection with the ground and allows for electrical purges whenever systems fail, falter, or overload.  

Characteristics: Lightning arrestors usually only activate when surges occur and are connected to earthing systems for adequate protection. They are part of the external protection system.  Earthing pits differ in the sense that they are always active and are used in almost every electrical installation.   

Although they are distinct parts of the electrical protection system, lightning arrestors and earthing pits work in tandem to keep buildings and people safe.  

At Electric Way, we believe in harnessing the power of electricity safely. We carry earthing and lightning protection systems from reputable brands across the region that are designed to keep structures and people safe from electrical failure, shock circuits, weather conditions, and more. You can rely on Electric Way to find the latest innovations in building secure systems and enjoy the perks of electricity without any worry.