Lightning Rods

Lightening rods are used to channel lightening energy in a safe way so that it does not strike down in an area where it could cause damage. It is usually placed on the roof of large buildings.

Lightning rods can also be placed on homes as well. These units are usually made from a conductive metal such as copper.

The First Lightning Rod Ever Invented

Benjamin Franklin was very instrumental in learning how lightening can be used to conduct electricity. He had attached a key to an electrical kite to show how electricity could be conducted from lightning.

Shortly before Ben Franklin had conducted this above mentioned famous kite-and-key experiment in June of 1752, another experiment was completed. In May of 1752, Thomas-Francois Dalibard had set up an iron rod insulated from ground with silk ribbons and wine bottles.

Both incidences were brought about by a proposal that Ben Franklin had made to learn about the power of lightning. He was recorded as the one first suggesting that lightning had an electric charge, but he was the second person to actually conduct the lightning experiment.

Lightning Rods Today

One of the places where lightning rods are most commonly installed is on churches. However, schools, federal buildings, and other important office complexes are seen with one of these age-old rods upon the roof.

Since the making of the first lightning rod, precautions have been made in order to ensure the safety of them. For instance, it is now known that the underground portion of a lightning rod should be installed in an area of high conductivity.

Additionally, it is wise to make sure the underground cable will not corrode. Salt can be used to improve the connectivity of the ground with the cable.

The History Of The Lightning Arrester

Another device is important in the making of telegraphic and telephonic structures. It is the lightning arrester. Lightning arresters are placed right where wires enter a structure (building or pole) in order to ensure safety of individuals and electronic equipment.

Another name for lightning arresters is surge protectors, which are often used in homes today. The most common use for these devices is on computerized equipment and electronic entertainment devices (i.e. televisions, stereos).

Ben Franklin was partially influential in the creation of the lightning arrester, which is a form of lightning rod. Over the years several patents have been given to those who have innovated varying designs of this unit.