Lightning Protection of 5G Stations

In today’s data-driven world, the demand for high-speed networks and uninterrupted telecommunication services is steadily increasing. The emergence of 5G technology has brought innovations and technological advancements to meet these demands. However, with the implementation of 5G, establishing a reliable and uninterrupted network service is critically important. This requires adequate protection against electrical failures—especially lightning and surges—which can pose a significant threat to telecommunications infrastructure. In our country, a full transition to 5G infrastructure is also expected in the near future. So how can we protect newly installed 5G stations against the destructive effects of lightning? Let’s take a look together.

The Importance of Network Availability and Reliable Operation

The increasing demand for 5G technology requires higher transmission capacities and improved network availability. As a result, new cell site locations are continuously being developed, and existing network infrastructure is being modified and expanded. Since network outages or limited operation can have serious consequences for both telecom operators and end users, it is undeniable that cell sites must be reliable.

Challenges of Lightning and Overvoltage Surges

The exposed nature of mobile telecom towers makes them vulnerable to direct lightning strikes, which can paralyze systems. In addition, damage caused by surges resulting from nearby lightning strikes can also be harmful. Furthermore, protecting personnel working on these systems during storms is extremely important. A comprehensive lightning and surge protection concept is required to ensure the availability of installations and systems.

Lightning and Overvoltage Protection Measures for Telecom Infrastructure 

1. Protection of Cell Sites

Cell sites, including rooftop transmitters and telecommunication towers, are critical components of telecom infrastructure. When installing rooftop transmitters, existing lightning protection systems should be integrated if available. In cases where a new lightning protection system is required, the installation of an isolated lightning protection system is recommended. This maintains the required separation distance and prevents lightning currents from damaging sensitive mobile radio components.

At this point, we recommend the use of Gromtor Insulated Down Conductors and SERTEC CMCE Lightning Prevention Systems.

Lightning Prevention System

2. Protection of Radio Base Stations

Radio base stations are typically supplied via separate power lines independent of the rest of the building. To protect these stations, appropriate lightning current arresters and surge protective devices should be installed on the feeder line downstream of the meter and on the AC sub-distribution panel upstream of the radio base station. This ensures equipment protection and prevents nuisance tripping of system fuses, thereby maintaining high system availability.

Rayvoss panels consisting of Raycap STRIKESORB systems provide the most ideal protection at this point with 1 ns response time and a 200 kA protection level.

RAYCAP RAYVOSS LIGHTNING PROTECTION SYSTEMS

Space-Saving Solutions

To optimize space utilization, compact surge protective devices (SPDs) such as the Raycap ProBloc series are recommended. These devices provide high-performance lightning current discharge capacity and comply with relevant standards. They offer effective protection for TN-S and TT systems.

MAIN PANELS PROTECTED WITH RAYCAP PROBLOC 100 SERIES

3. Protection of Sensitive and Critical Equipment

In addition to protecting cell sites and radio base stations, it is crucial to protect sensitive and critical equipment in the telecom network against indirect or secondary lightning effects. Power line equipment, telecom line equipment, and coaxial lines are sensitive to overvoltage surges and require well-coordinated surge protective devices. These devices must comply with relevant standards and be integrated into a comprehensive grounding network for complete protection.

Raycap Raydat Net6, Raycap SLH Series sensitive low-current protections, and Raycap DMDR 20 Series DC energy protections provide the most accurate solutions for Type 3 protection.

TYPE 3 LOW VOLTAGE SURGE PROTECTION SYSTEMS 

The Need for Reliable and Uninterrupted Network Services

The growing demand for 5G technology stems from its ability to transmit higher volumes of data. This requires a highly advanced network infrastructure capable of supporting modern communication requirements. The implementation of 5G technology also brings potential risks and hazards that could disrupt the capabilities of this advanced technology. Therefore, establishing reliable and uninterrupted network services is of great importance.

As Yılkomer, we offer you maximum safety systems with the world’s most advanced solutions.

You can contact our expert team for site inspection and technical information at info@yilkomer.com.

Do not forget, Yılkomer ‘Protects Your Values!’