A direct or branch hit on an X transformer line (low voltage) is instant destruction for anything connected to the X lines.
A very nearby ground hit not only charges earth ground the EMP can and will fry electronics. Nearby meaning 33 meters.
Earlier on in a different thread I discussed "surge protectors" incorporating MOVS, Bi-directional TVS (Avalanche Diodes) and Plasma discharge tubes.
Lightning is frightening......a good phrase to remember.
Lightning operates by first establishing a pathway of ionized air. A feeder pulse instantly follows, then (perhaps) the main enchilada (there may be hundreds of ionization pathways established before a feeder and the big-one follows).
By incorporating a voltage sensitive surge protection circuit. All components in a surge protection circuit will die a violent death if a strike occurs. But enough time is purchased to allow ionization to choose the path of least resistance. Blowing first the TVS, then MOVS, then finally the gas tube discharge devices then continuing on to an earth ground pathway. All this happens in microseconds.
Would this protect downstream during a direct strike ? NO
How about during a branch strike? Perhaps infrequently but it would be unusual.
During a nearby direct earth strike? Most probably YES
For EMP pulse emissions? DEFINITELY YES
I have had similar configurations protect gen set distribution networks, and generator windings secondary rectifiers, and voltage regulator circuitry survived. I also used a .030" air gap tie from phase to earth ground but that's another protection circuit entirely.
When I get North señor Pianotuna gets an electronic MOV, TVS and GDT circuit housed in a hobby box, ready to connect. Hope the mail does not loose it :)
