An Improved Antenna Theory Model of Lightning Return Stroke Using a Distributed Current Source–Part II: Applications

Abstract

A full-wave method of Maxwell's equations is adopted for the analysis of lightning electromagnetic fields. The method is based on a numerical solution of the electric field integral equation by the method of moments (MoM). A new electromagnetic model of the lightning channel based on a thin-wire antenna with distributed current sources allows the use of Sommerfeld integrals for the evaluation of electromagnetic fields due to lightning, in stratified media. In order to extend the study to more complex systems including the lightning channel and its nearby structures, an array of conducting wires and metallic surfaces is used to represent the entire system. An efficient and cost-effective MoM method capable to compute the variation of spatial one-dimensional linear currents and two-dimensional surface currents is implemented. It permits the evaluation of the electromagnetic interference effects of lightning in a complex environment, without the use of approximate formulas. The proposed method is capable of analyzing the electromagnetic interference effects of lightning for a wide range of applications. Several case studies, including the analysis of lightning-induced disturbances on overhead lines, underground cables, and shielding enclosures, are also presented.