Lightning strike counters are very useful tools in lightning protection installations, since they provide first-hand information on whether the installation has suffered a lightning strike and therefore if there is a need for any subsequent verification or extra maintenance beyond the periodical inspections, according the provisions of the standards ((UNE-EN IEC 62305, UNE 21186, NF C 17 102, NP4426, etc.).
SMART LIGHTNING LOGGER: Intelligent lightning strike counter
Through the introduction of IoT technology, the SMART LIGHTNING LOGGER allows receiving alerts and knowing this information in real-time and in several locations through a multi-platform application.
Information on the characteristics of a lightning strike is used to improve protection systems and determine appropriate repairs. However, traditional lightning strike counters collect this information locally and require an on-site inspection to retrieve this information, a situation that becomes more complex if this data must be accessed at multiple locations.
SMART LIGHTNING LOGGER, developed by Aplicaciones Tecnológicas S.A., solves this limitation by implementing intelligent IoT technology. This way, when an event occurs, the data is collected and sent through a secure server. The user receives an alert when an event occurs and has all the characterisation of the impact available to know if repairs must be carried out urgently, without waiting for the next on-site inspection. With this information, the correct functioning of the LPS is ensured at all times.
WIND TURBINE SMART LIGHTNING LOGGER, for the wind energy sector
The new WIND TURBINE SMART LIGHTNING LOGGER, developed and patented by Aplicaciones Tecnológicas S.A., is the key device that provides objective information to optimise maintenance operations and efficiently manage any lightning strike.
WIND TURBINE SMART LIGHTNING LOGGER is an advanced smart logger that continuously monitors the electrical activity in the wind turbine blades where it is installed.
Other lightning strike counters
ATLOGGER lightning event counter
The ATLOGGER lightning event counter (AT-004G) is a recorder of electrical activity in the lightning rod’s down-conductor which, in addition to counting the number of strikes, records the amplitude and polarity of the lightning, as well as the date and time the impact occurred.
The ATLOGGER lightning event counter is authorised for use in explosive atmospheres (CE EX certificated) and complies with the standards UNE-EN IEC 62561-6).
Installation of the lightning strike counter is very easy as it does not involve any interruption or cutting of the down-conductor. Simply place it beside the down-conductor and fix it properly onto a flat surface. The data is downloaded automatically using a USB device that enables data transfer from different ATLOGGER devices to the reading point.
AT-034G Lightning event counter
The AT-034G lightning event counter is a device to be installed on the down-conductor, usually above the guard tube. It automatically counts the strikes received by the lightning protection system. It is very sturdy and totally autonomous, however it is advisable to check it periodically in order to see if there has been a strike and, therefore, whether or not the lightning protection system needs any special maintenance.
This counter is designed to be installed inside self-supporting masts and interrupting the downconductor is not necessary for its installation.
If you want to know more about smart technology applied to lightning protection systems, you can contact us at this link.
If you are interested, you can also attend any of our free online training on this and other topics on our webinar page.