Lightning Protection at Petrochemical Facilities - Part 1 History and Background Science

Development of lightning protection standards for petrochemical processing and storage facilities has progressed significantly over the past 20 years. Standard requirements have become more stringent and prescriptive. Understanding of development and propagation of lightning has grown with the advent of 3-D detection systems. This is Part 1 of a 3-part primer on lightning protection systems for petrochemical production, storage, and processing facilities. Part 1 covers the basic science behind lightning strikes, and the history of lightning research, protection systems, and models of attachment. The purpose of this paper, and the primer series, is to update the design and operating engineer's knowledge of lightning protection at petrochemical facilities, and to increase the safety of these facilities to workers and equipment.