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Lightning poses a significant threat to military airbase operations
throughout the United States and worldwide. Many
airbases
experience significant damage from direct lightning strikes
and power surges. Damage and destruction to airbase facilities,
aircraft, and equipment can wreak
havoc on flight operations and airbase activities.
When this occurs, aircraft
flight operations and airbase support activities can be significantly
impaired for extended periods of time. Combat
readiness and sortie production is degraded.
It is estimated
that annual lightning damage to property exceeds 20 million
dollars. In addition to property and equipment
damages, lightning claims nearly 500 American deaths and
over 2000 personal injuries yearly. The majority of
these incidents occur within the east and central parts of
the country with Florida being the #1 state for direct
lightning strikes.
In order to minimize damage to facilities, aircraft,
equipment, and injury/death to personnel, military airbases must
adequately protect property and personnel from the effects
of lightning.
Lightning protection measures must be supported by reliable, capable equipment and
technologies. Buildings that
stand alone (such as aircraft hangars and warehouses) are at
greater risk than ones surrounded by larger buildings, which
offer some protection.
A steel
aircraft hangar, flight operations building, a warehouse, or
support facility significantly reduces its vulnerability to
lightning damage if the building's steel work is carried to
the top of the structure. Another way to
reduce lightning damage vulnerability is via an effective
lightning rod system attached to the steel framework and
properly grounded. Otherwise, almost any
structure is subject to damage by lightning if not protected
by properly installed lightning rods.
Protecting
Airbases and
Airports from the Forces of Nature
The National Aerospace Organization is hosting a
symposium and exposition on November 15th, 2012 to address
new technologies and innovations for effectively protecting
military airbases
from lightning, hurricanes, fire, snow storms, and other common
destructive natural forces. Exciting presentations
will be provided to explain and demonstrate the most
effective technologies, construction innovations, and equipment for
minimizing the destructive forces of nature upon military
airbases and support flight operations.
Go to
Event Page for more Information
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