Lightning. these boats can be protected from lightning strikes by properly designed and connected systems of lightning protection. however, the majority of these boats are not so equipped. lightning protection systems do not prevent lightning strikes. they may, in fact, increase the possibilities of the boat being struck. the purpose of. The air terminal, or “lightning rod” in lubber’s argot, is “a device at the uppermost point of the lightning protection system that attaches a lightning stroke to the lightning ground system” (the emphasis is mine). it’s designed to bridge the gap between a lightning bolt and the vessel.. The lightning protection system installed on the boat in question is not uncommon and reflects production boat standards. the boat was built by a well-known company, and an equally reputable firm installed the tower and outriggers. but it could have been more effectively protected..
Therefore, steel is the safest hull material during a lightning strike, since the entire boat is grounded. the best protection comes when an aluminum mast is used since it acts as a giant lightning rod, but with a wood spar the stays will ground the current to the hull.. Considerations for lightning protection: conclusions reached post-survey by the owner of domino, referenced above. lessons in lightning: ocean navigator article by a cruiser in an aluminum boat who was struck by lightning in the baltic. of particular interest to those (like myself) who own aluminum boats.. Marine lightning protection inc. being at the forefront of both the basic science and product development in this area, we are uniquely qualified to address all of the problems inherent in lightning protection on the water..
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