Which component of the lightning protection system is responsible for intercepting lightning strikes?

The component responsible for intercepting lightning strikes in a lightning protection system is air terminals. These devices, often referred to as lightning rods, are strategically placed on the highest points of a structure. When a thunderstorm generates electrical charges, air terminals provide a preferred path for the lightning to follow. By doing so, they redirect the electrical energy safely into the ground instead of allowing it to penetrate the structure itself.

Air terminals are designed to catch and conduct the lightning strike, minimizing the risk of a direct hit to the building or any connected systems. This is crucial for protecting the structure from fire and electrical damage that could arise from a lightning strike. Their effectiveness relies on both their placement and material, which is typically conductive, enabling them to work efficiently in directing the lightning’s energy away from sensitive areas.

The other components, while essential to the overall functioning of a lightning protection system, serve different specific purposes; ground rods provide a path to the earth for the lightning's discharge, surge suppressors protect electrical systems from surges, and conductive cables facilitate the transfer of electricity from air terminals to ground rods.