Michael Mattera, Consultant, Bridgeport, Conn. commscope.com Wind turbine towers are a natural target for lightning strikes. A good grounding system plays a critical role guarding against catastrophic damage to the blades, electronics, transformer, nacelle, and collector system out to the substation. Up until now, copper has been the predominant material in wire and cable used…

Matt Caie, Mike Gassman, ERICO/ Solon, Ohio/ erico.com The average lightning discharge releases 55 kWh in only 100 to 300 microseconds. This calls for effective methods of protecting blades on wind turbines along with their internal electrical and electronic systems. Most wind turbines work in harsh locations, making them susceptible to damage from volatile weather.…