The ZANDZ Technical Center frequently receives requests to calculate the lightning protection of buildings and structures associated with cultural heritage sites. The design of lightning protection comes with extra requirements that must be met because these kinds of structures were typically constructed prior to the development of the Standards and Technical Documentation for Lightning Protection. Preserving the items in their original state is one of these requirements. It is critical to perform lightning protection in such a way that the building's look is not compromised and the lightning protection features do not detract from the appearance or draw attention to themselves.
What factors to consider while designing lightning protection for cultural heritage objects?
1. Selection of materials
The materials used to install the lightning protection system should be long-lasting and resistant to environmental conditions. This will prevent situations like rust on the facade from corroding current collectors and the requirement for regular system element replacements. The color and appearance of the lightning protection components are also crucial. For instance, the copper-plated wire of current collectors covered in patina is nearly undetectable on the seam roofing of buildings, as well as waterspouts.
Figure 1. Cottage Palace, Park Aleksandriya, Peterhof
Figure 2. Current collector outlet located behind the waterspout
2. Preserving the visual and historical appearance
The lightning protection system can be designed to incorporate the building's architectural characteristics. For example, metal roof components such as spires, weathervanes, flagpoles, crosses, fences, and other roof elements can serve as natural lightning protection systems.
Figure 3. A cross serving as a natural lightning protection system
Figure 4. Shepelevsky Lighthouse, Cape Shepelevsky, Leningrad Region
Figure 5. The weathervane on the lighthouse roof acts as a natural lightning protection system
3. Positioning of components for lightning protection
The lightning protection system's components should be positioned not to draw attention to themselves or detract from the building's outside appearance. For instance, current collector risers from down the roof can be subtly mounted on waterspouts to avoid being noticeable, and the lightning protection systems can be placed away from main architectural elements to be not visible from the ground level.
Figure 6. Figure 6. Gothic Chapel, Alexandria Park, Peterhof
Figure 7. The current collector riser is not visible from the main facade of the building
4. Safety
Preserving a pristine appearance does not decrease the importance of appropriate lightning protection for the building. ZANDZ Technical Center does the required calculations and determines the best option to meet the safety criteria.
It is crucial to keep in mind that installing a lightning protection system is an issue of cultural heritage preservation as well as safety. A well-chosen and fitted system will help guarantee the building's durability and safeguard it from potential damage and fire
Do you require assistance with grounding non-standard buildings and structures and protecting them from lightning? Feel free to contact ZANDZ Technical Center!
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