The Applied Technical Services Family of Companies (FoC) is a leader among indirect lightning testing labs.
What is an Indirect Lightning Strike?
Indirect lightning strikes occur when lightning strikes an object or surface, and the current travels to a nearby object that was not directly hit by the initial impact. There are two types of indirect strikes, ground currents and side flashes. Ground currents occur when a lightning strike hits an object and travels through the ground to other objects. Side flashes occur when lightning strikes an object before the current travels through the air and strikes additional objects.
What is Indirect Lightning Strike Testing?
Indirect lightning strike testing allows experts to evaluate how equipment may respond to the effects of indirect lightning strikes. During the testing process, technicians use indirect lightning test generators to simulate the complex characteristics of the surges and electromagnetic fields created by lightning-related events. Advanced testing equipment allows experts to accurately simulate the effects of natural lightning by simulating a wide range of lightning strike voltages.
About Our Indirect Lightning Testing Labs
The ATS FoC’s environmental testing lab offers lightning simulation services that help clients ensure that their electrical equipment is properly protected from indirect lightning strikes and their potential effects. Whether you’re interested in protecting avionics equipment or complying with military regulations, our lab may have testing solutions your company needs. We offer testing services that comply with the following:
- RTCA DO 160 Section 22 (Lightning Induced Transient Susceptibility
- MIL STD 461G (Electromagnetic Interference)
How Do Indirect Lightning Strikes Affect Electronics?
All electronic components are susceptible to damage from lightning, and in some cases, the consequences of lightning-related events can completely compromise an operation’s safety. Lightning strikes can create excessive voltage, which can overwhelm electrical systems and their components, potentially leading to temporary or even permanent malfunction. Indirect lighting tests help equipment manufacturers and operators mitigate the risk of equipment outages and failures by doing the following:
- Verifying the equipment’s ability to withstand lightning-induced stresses
- Ensuring compliance with relevant safety requirements
Contact Us
To learn more about our indirect lightning testing lab and its capabilities, please call us at +1 (888) 287-5227 or submit the online request form located at the top right of the page.
