– 21 – BS EN 62305-3:2006

5.4 Earth-termination system

5.4.1 General

When dealing with the dispersion of the lightning current (high frequency behaviour) into the
ground, whilst minimizing any potentially dangerous overvoltages, the shape and dimensions
of the earth-termination system are the important criteria. In general, a low earthing
resistance (if possible lower than 10 when measured at low frequency) is recommended.

From the viewpoint of lightning protection, a single integrated structure earth-termination

system is preferable and is suitable for all purposes (i.e. lightning protection, power systems
and telecommunication systems).

Earth-termination systems shall be bonded in accordance with the requirements of 6.2.

NOTE 1 The conditions of separation and bonding of other earth-termination systems are usually determined by
the appropriate national authorities.
NOTE 2 Serious corrosion problems can occur when earthing systems made of different materials are connected
to each other.

5.4.2 Earthing arrangement in general conditions

For earth-termination systems, two basic types of earth electrode arrangements apply.

5.4.2.1 Type A arrangement

This type of arrangement comprises horizontal or vertical earth electrodes installed outside
the structure to be protected connected to each down-conductor.

In type A arrangements, the total number of earth electrodes shall be not less than two.

100

90

80 Class I

70

60

50
Class II

40

30

20

10
Class III-IV
0

0 500 1 000 1 500 2 000 2 500 3 000

m IEC 2097/05

NOTE Classes III and IV are independent of soil resistivity.

Figure 2 – Minimum length l 1 of each earth electrode according to the class of LPS