Copper clips are a common lightning protection accessory used to connect lightning protection equipment to an earth wire in order to effectively direct the current of lightning to the ground, thereby protecting the equipment from damage. Below are the general steps for using copper clips:
1. Preparation: Ensure that the workplace is safe and disconnect equipment associated with the power supply to avoid electric shock or damage to the equipment.
2. Determine the location: Determine where to install the copper clips as needed. Typically, the copper clamp should be installed between the earth wire and the lightning protection equipment to ensure a smooth flow of current to ground.
3. Clean surfaces: Clean the connection surfaces of the earth wire and lightning protection equipment to ensure that there is no dirt or oxides to ensure a good connection.
4. Install copper clamps: Fix the copper clamps correctly between the earth wire and the lightning protection equipment. Ensure that the clamps fit snugly and that they are held securely in place using the appropriate tools.
5. Earthing: Ensure a good earth connection by attaching the copper clamp to the ground. This is usually done by connecting the earth wire to the building's earthing system or to an underground earth rod.
6. Check: After installation, carefully check all connections to ensure that the connection between the copper clamp and the earth wire is strong and reliable.
7. Testing: Finally, a test is carried out to ensure that the lightning protection system is working properly. This can be carried out by specialist lightning protection testing equipment or by a qualified electrical engineer.