An isolated approach defines the route of lightning current around sensitive rooftop equipment during design. The required separation distance must still be calculated; installing a product does not replace that calculation.
How does HVC work?
The air terminal intercepts lightning current, while a fibreglass insulator separates it from the supporting structure. The XLPE insulated HVC conductor carries the current along the designed route into the earthing system. With appropriate design and installation, this manages the risk of sparking between the lightning conductor and nearby metal or electrical parts.
System components
- Isolated air terminal system: A suitable mast and insulator separate the air terminal from rooftop equipment.
- HVC conductor: Carries lightning current along the planned route.
- Connections and supports: Mast head, termination and roof-specific supports complete the installation.
Part numbers and installation spacing are checked against the HARDT HVC brochure and manufacturer instructions for the chosen roof layout.
How is it designed?
- Calculate the required separation distance between the protected equipment and lightning protection system.
- Define the air terminal position and conductor route around roof equipment and connections.
- Select conductor and connection components in line with the manufacturer's installation requirements.
- Design the connection that transfers current into the earthing system.
Technical data (AH39200)
| Property | Manufacturer declaration |
|---|---|
| Conductor / insulation | 35 mm² copper / XLPE |
| Outer diameter | 18.5 mm |
| Impulse current withstand | 200 kA |
| Insulation distance | 750 mm |
These product values do not mean the required separation distance is automatically achieved on site. The calculation, route and connections must be checked for each project.
Applications
Equipment-dense industrial roofs, rooftop solar installations, antenna and telecom systems, and compact technical areas are possible applications. The isolated air terminal system is offered in 2–5 m options; the included mast and conductor accessories are confirmed for each order.
See the HARDT HVC brochure for component codes, dimensions and installation notes.
Frequently asked questions
Does HVC remove the need to calculate separation distance?
No. The structure, air terminal, conductor route and nearby equipment are assessed together, and the required distance is calculated in the design.
Can it be retrofitted to an existing roof?
Suitability is established after reviewing the existing lightning protection layout, rooftop equipment and connection points. The same layout cannot be applied to every roof.
Is buying an HVC conductor alone enough?
No. The air terminal, insulator, conductor, connectors and earthing route are designed as a system.