RGA – The Best Fuel tank Lightning Protection System

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 In any U.S. geographical area, lightning storms occur as few as five times or as many as 100 times per year. Lightning and static issues have resulted in the loss of many oil production sites. Modern upstream oil production locations include technologies that are constantly changing at a rapid rate.

 

Statics show that 95% of rim seal fires of an FRT are a result of a lightning strike. By design to ensure ease of movement of the floating roof within the tank shell, there exists a gap between the tank shell and the edge of the floating roof. This eliminates friction, guarantees ease of movement but creates issues in the same areas when lightning strikes. 

 

Recent design enhancements in fuel tank lightning protection by LEC called a Retractable Grounding Array (RGA) is provides protection with a self-retracting conductor. The RGA retracts and extends based on the roof level thereby maintaining the shortest electrical connection possible and prevents the issue associated with the use of long cables. It is made of multiple weaved strands of low resistance tinned copper wire and is typically installed on the tank shell and connected to the edge of the roof.


Fuel tank lightning protection involves a three-step process:

Protection of the structure

This employs our RGA system which is designed to reduce the incidence of direct strikes to the protected structure.

Grounding/Bonding

The purpose of bonding is to bring all the steel equipment to the same electrical potential. While grounding is done to ensure that the current escapes to the earth properly. Bonding in conjunction with grounding is highly important to create a safe working environment.

Surge Suppression

Our SPDs are installed on sub-panels, so that when a transient originating on one circuit travels back to its sub distribution panel, this device limits it before it can be redistributed onto other circuits within the panel, including circuits feeding your sensitive equipment. 

 

Benefits of RGA – The best fuel tank lightning protection system

  • Effective: Permanent, reliable, low-impedance bond prevents fires triggered by lightning currents
  • Economical: Low initial cost and exceptional return on investment
  • Easy-to-Install: 2-hour install on new and existing tanks
  • Durable: Engineered for years of durability and reliable performance in corrosive environments
  • Low-Maintenance: Requires virtually no upkeep as compared to shunts
  • Award Winning: Winner of the E & P Innovation Award


Lightning protection is an indispensable part of the oil depot safety system. LEC systems protect your oil and gas field assets from damage caused by lightning strikes and static discharge. Our experienced engineering team works alongside your operations and engineering team to develop a customized plan that prevents the ignition from lightning strikes and static discharge.   


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