What are lightning protection zones (LPZ) and what types are there?

In accordance with DIN EN 62305, a lightning protection system is divided into different lightning protection zones. Lightning Protection Zones is also abbreviated LPZ. Each protection zone has a fully earthed sheath and closed shielding, so that complete potential equalization is possible.

In order to achieve a specified protection level, cables that are routed through the shielding must be protected with arresters. As further protection zones can be set up inside a protection zone, the advantage is that these only need to be protected below the insulation strength of the higher-level protection zone.

LPZ 0A

  • External lightning protection

Zone endangered by direct lightning strikes and by the full electromagnetic field of lightning. Internal systems can be exposed to full or partial lightning impulse currents.

LPZ 0B

  • External lightning protection

Zone that is protected against direct lightning strikes but is endangered by the full electromagnetic field of lightning. The internal systems may be exposed to proportional lightning impulse currents.

LPZ 1

  • Internal lightning protection

Zone in which the surge currents are limited by current splitting and by insulating interfaces and/or SPDs at the zone boundary. The electromagnetic field of the lightning can be weakened by spatial shielding.

LPZ 2…n

  • Internal lightning protection

Zone in which the surge currents are further limited by current splitting and by insulating interfaces and/or additional SPDs at the zone boundary. Additional spatial shielding can be used to further attenuate the electromagnetic field of the flash.

The different lightning protection zones

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