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Hazards of Electrostatics(1) Lightning
Electrostatic charges are built up due to friction between water molecules in the cloud and air molecules. These accumulated charges ionize the air, which then provides a conducting path for the charges to be discharged to the nearest or sharpest object on ground.
How the danger is reduced? Lightning conductors are fitted on top of tall buildings to provide a discharge path for excessive electrons in the air to flow from the top of the building into earth. (2) Electrostatic discharge in gas tankers
Courtesy of Newson Gale
Electric charges can accumulate on trucks due to friction between road and tyres of truck. Sparks may be produced when discharging happens. This will cause any flammable materials that the trucks are carrying to catch fire or explode.
How the danger is reduced? Connect a metal chain at the rear end of truck to the ground to provide a discharging path for excess charges. |
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