Implementation of a calibration method for lightning locating system (LLS)

Abstract

Data validating is important for a country-wide lightning mapping system. The existing lightning mapping and locating system owned by TNB Malaysia covered a wide area surrounding the Peninsular Malaysia. The system known as the Lightning Detection Network (LDN), consists of high performance sensors and is able to determine the coordinates of cloud to ground lightning strikes within ± 500 m accuracy. Obviously, it is desired that the mapping accuracy of the LDN data be improved for purposes which desire more accuracy such as insurance claims due to lightning strikes. Regarding that, a new method known as the localised lightning locating system (LLLS) is introduced in UTM Skudai to determine the coordinate of any cloud to ground lightning strike within a local region with a claimed accuracy of ± 20 m. This localised system is based on the measurement of induced voltages due to lightning strikes in the vicinity of a purposely overhead constructed twisted telephone lines. This study was carried out with the objectives of comparing the LLLS system in UTM with that of the LDN TNB system. Previously captured measurement data was analyzed and compared with the LDN TNB data readings. In addition, the improvements had been carried out on the LLLS to give better strike locations. The online system is ready to be used at any time for lightning data capturing (implemented using LabVIEW Software). The theoretical explanation of lightning induced voltages due to the travelling wave effect on a typical transmission line had also been proven using ATP EMTP Software.