Installation schemes for downconductors at Airport Traffic Control Towers (ATCT)

Abstract

This paper focuses on design practices for the effective placement of downconductors to increase the level of direct lightning strike protection of Airport Traffic Control Towers (ATCT) in the United States. The adopted design practice is based on the use of the voltage gradient model as applied to tall towers. A scheme of balanced placement of downconductors for ATCTs is presented along with a simplified PSpice simulation that indicates related performance improvements.