Effective Lightning Protection for Refineries
Prevent Lightning-Induced Process Interruptions and Downtime
Lightning Protection Strategies for Refineries
Crude oil refineries typically operate continuously, optimizing output by processing and selling all refined products. Unplanned shutdowns can result in significant restart costs and lost production that cannot be recovered—particularly when refineries are running at or near full capacity. Following a catastrophic lightning-induced event, the loss of output is permanent and unrecoverable.
Comprehensive lightning protection helps prevent lightning related operational disruptions that result in financial and human impacts. Our lightning protection systems are specifically designed to prevent operational disruptions, safeguard critical process control systems, and protect infrastructure from the hazardous impacts of lightning activity.
Trusted by industry leaders like ExxonMobil, Chevron, ADNOC (TAKREER), Perobras, PEMEX, and many others.
Continuous operations in extreme conditions
Innovating Since 1971
Risk Assessment
Identify and Quantify VulnerabilitiesLEC detailed site surveys include an in-depth review of your refinery's physical properties—from structural materials and dimensions to environmental conditions and soil composition. We identify vulnerable equipment and assess the quantitative and qualitative costs of potential lightning-induced interruptions.
Lightning Protection Strategy
Customized Strategies for Maximum ProtectionOur comprehensive assessment maps your facility’s risk zones that informs a detailed visual representation highlighting areas of high strike probability, zones requiring protection, and potential paths for lightning-induced currents.
Lightning Risks for Refineries
Crude oil refineries face serious risks from lightning strikes, driven by the presence of flammable materials and highly sensitive equipment. A direct strike, spark, or even a strike miles away can trigger fires, explosions, equipment failures, or widespread process disruptions. Additionally, because processes are closely integrated, a disruption in one part of the plant can quickly cascade into a larger upset. To ensure safety and maintain uninterrupted operations, robust and proactive lightning protection is not just important—it’s essential.
Equipment particularly vulnerable to lightning-related risks include:
Equipment particularly vulnerable to lightning-related risks include:
- Distillation Towers
- Floating Roof Tanks
- Cracking Units
- Reforming Units
- Fixed Roof Tanks
- Pressure Vessels
- Pumps
- Electrical Transformers
- Flares
- Pipe Racks
- Control Rooms
- Cokers
