Smart Surge Arrester Protection Solution: Based on Full Lifecycle Lightning Detection & Dynamic Evaluation System

08/01/2025

I. Core Concept: Active Defense + Data-Driven
Breaks through traditional passive protection models by establishing a closed-loop system of "Detection-Evaluation-Warning-Optimization." Achieves precise protection through periodic inspections and dynamic risk assessments, reducing lightning strike incidents by over 40%.

II. Comprehensive Lightning Protection Facility Inspection System

  1. Three-Tier Inspection Mechanism
    • Initial Inspection (New/Retrofit Projects):
      • Scans coverage density of air termination systems (rods/straps/meshes).
      • Detects loose connections via infrared thermography.
    • Annual Inspection (Mandatory):
      • Grounding system tests: Dynamic soil resistivity monitoring + 3D imaging of grounding impedance.
      • SPD (Surge Protective Device) performance tests: Insulation resistance test + discharge counter verification.
    • Special Inspection (Post-Thunderstorm/Fault Occurrence):
      • Replays lightning current paths via lightning positioning systems.
      • Conducts targeted impulse grounding resistance tests.
  2. Smart Inspection Tools
    • Drone aerial photography for physical condition analysis of air terminals.
    • Smart grounding resistance tester (±2% accuracy).
    • High-frequency current probes capturing SPD microsecond-level responses.

III. Dynamic Risk Assessment Model
Developed LEAP-Risk™ Assessment Matrix (Lightning Exposure Assessment Program):

Risk Score = 0.3 × Historical Strike Frequency + 0.2 × Equipment Sensitivity 

            + 0.4 × Protection Device Integrity + 0.1 × Electromagnetic Environment Complexity 

Note: Outputs risk levels (Red/Orange/Yellow/Blue) to drive protection strategy adjustments.

IV. Data Value Transformation

  1. Digital Twin Management Platform
    • Integrates BIM models for visualized inspection results.
    • Auto-generates Lightning Facility Health Report, including:
      • Ground grid corrosion rate predictions,
      • SPD remaining lifespan assessments,
      • Air terminal protection angle deviation alerts.
  2. Risk Response Decision Support
    | Risk Level | Protection Reinforcement Focus | Inspection Interval Compression Factor |
    |------------|-------------------------------|----------------------------------------|
    | Red | Install early streamer emission systems | 30 days/cycle |
    | Orange | Upgrade to Class III SPD protection | 90 days/cycle |
    | Yellow | Supplement equipotential bonding | 180 days/cycle |

Solution Value

  1. Risk Visualization: ≥65% reduction in annual lightning disaster economic losses.
  2. Smart O&M: 50% lower manual inspection costs + 3x faster response speed.
  3. Precision Protection: Critical equipment lightning withstand capacity elevated to 200kA (IEC 62305 standard).

Case Study: A data center implementing this solution achieved 92% SPD failure prediction accuracy, reduced lightning-induced downtime incidents to zero, and obtained TÜV Rheinland Smart Lightning Protection Certification.

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