Why Lightning Protection is Critical
A Lightning Protection System (LPS) is a coordinated network of components designed to protect buildings and structures from lightning strikes by providing a controlled, low-resistance path for electrical energy to safely disperse into the ground.
According to industry data, lightning strikes cause billions of dollars in damage globally each year, with industrial facilities among the most vulnerable due to their complex electrical infrastructure and operational sensitivity. Without proper lightning protection, the consequences can be severe—ranging from electrical fires and equipment failure to production downtime and safety risks. Inadequate or outdated systems not only heighten these threats but also complicate insurance claims and lead to non-compliance with safety standards.
Advanced Lightning Protection Solutions (ALPS) focuses on delivering systems that comply with both local regulations and international standards such as IEC 62305. This ensures that your facility is not only protected from lightning-related incidents but also supported by a fully compliant, resilient solution that reinforces operational continuity and personnel safety.
Advanced Lightning Protection System (ALPS) – by Critical Facility Group
The Advanced Lightning Protection System (ALPS) from Critical Facility Group (CFG) is a scientifically developed strike avoidance solution that protects critical facilities, locations, and assets from direct lightning strikes and the resulting damage and downtime. Unlike traditional lightning rods that attempt to capture strikes, ALPS suppresses upward leader formation, placing the protected facility in the least likely position for lightning termination — thereby avoiding the strike altogether.
ALPS Application
- Oil & Gas Refineries, Petrochemical Plants & Storage Facilities
- Defence Installations & Command Centres
- Telecom Towers & Data Centres
- Transportation Hubs, Rail Systems, Airports
- … Among other Critical Facilities
With ALPS, you can:
- Prevent catastrophic damage from lightning
- Reduces electric field potential exposure to the protected structure
- Extend equipment lifespan and reduce maintenance
- Minimize unplanned downtime
- Get it right from the start — with scientific validation and proper design
- Meet global standards while receiving customized solutions
Key Feature of Advanced Lightning Protection System
A Holistic, Tiered Strategy
This is part of our Integrated, Tiered Protection strategy. We deliver a holistic solution, from the air to the ground:
- Tier 1 : Direct Strike Avoidance (ALPS)
- Tier 2: Surge Protection
- Tier 3: Grounding and Bonding
Everything is designed to work seamlessly as one system, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
Reliable Failsafe Device
The effectiveness of the ALPS system is evidenced by its track record. In over 40 years and in multiple large deployments around the world, ALPS technology has had a flawless record of zero strikes to assets under protection.
Maximum Protection
The ALPS system effectively lowers the likelihood of a direct lightning strike within a given area to virtually zero. It does this by building up a space charge shield over its zone of protection. The result is that any asset within the zone no longer presents itself as a path of least resistance to lightning. If a thundercloud overhead discharges lightning, it will strike outside the zone of protection instead.
Stellar Track Record
The ALPS tower also functions as a failsafe device in the unlikely event that lightning activity occurs over the zone. In such an instance, the tower is designed to absorb the strike, then work in tandem with complementary solutions from Critical Facility Group to ensure proper grounding and surge protection for the assets within the zone of protection.
Explore the Advanced Lightning Protection System (ALPS) Product Range
| Model | Ideal Application | Key Features | Benefits | |
|
Model R – Unparalleled Performance Lightning Rods |
|
Critical facilities, buildings requiring flexible configuration |
Replaceable head tip (Crown, Sharp, Blunt, Multipoint) | Customizable tip designs |
| Unique coupler for positive bonding | Achieves <0.2 ohm bonding resistance (IEC62305) | |||
| Ergonomic grip for installation | Easy maintenance without full replacement | |||
|
Model T – Cost Effective Air Terminal |
|
General commercial and industrial buildings |
Multi-pin rod on sphere design | Effective for multi-directional flash collection |
| ALPS-PIN for enhanced ionization | Affordable and reliable | |||
| – | Supports business continuity | |||
|
Model D – High-Level Risk Mitigation System |
|
Data centers, defense, telecoms, oil & gas, and sensitive government agencies. |
Strike avoidance & mitigation design | Most cost-effective system for critical facilities |
| Engineered for extreme weather | Ideal for high-value assets | |||
| Customizable per site risk level | Reduces EMP risks | |||
|
Multi Points Device – Layered Protection Concept |
|
Supplementary protection for critical applications or use with ALPS | Multipoint ionizing design | Continues functioning after multiple strikes |
| Collects strikes from all directions | Enhances existing ALPS system | |||
| Reduces electric field intensity | Reduces direct strike likelihood |
End-to-End Lightning Protection Services
From risk assessment to ongoing maintenance, we provide end-to-end lightning protection services tailored to your facility’s needs. Our expert team conducts site surveys, performs risk analysis using 3D Rolling Sphere simulations, and delivers custom system designs with full engineering reports. From product supply and installation to compliance checks and long-term support, we ensure your operations stay safe, protected, and compliant.
Lightning Consultancy and Safety AuditsÂ
- Site surveyÂ
- Risk analysis with 3D Rolling Sphere simulations
- Custom system design and engineering reports
- Product supply: air terminals, surge arresters, earthing systems
- Installation, testing, and commissioning
- Lightning safety programs and compliance checks
- Ongoing maintenance and support
Why Work with CFG?Â
Effectiveness of system is positively demonstrated in labs across Japan, China and Thailand, with field tests in Singapore, Japan, and Thailand
Proven Results in the Field
- 0% failure rate in ALPS-deployed zones
- With over 25 years of global experience
- Case studies show millions in saved downtime and man-hours
- Some clients have seen an 80% reduction in electronics maintenance
CFG is backed by the largest knowledge pool in the industry:
- A panel of 7 PhDs and 2 senior scientific advisors
- Experts in lightning physics, power systems, plasma science, RF, and fluid dynamics
- Over two decades of lab-validated innovations
- Partnered with institutions like Hitachi Laboratories, EGAT, RMUTT, and more
Global Experience, Local Adaptability
CFG systems protect critical sites in:
- Singapore, Japan, Thailand, Malaysia, PNG, the Philippines, and more
- Used by ExxonMobil, M1, Mitsui Chemicals, and military clients across Asia
- Installed in complex environments: offshore rigs, oil storage tanks, radomes, data centres, control towers, and smart buildings
Frequently Asked Questions
How is CFG’s ALPS system different from regular lightning rods or ESE terminals?
Traditional rods and ESEs manage lightning after it strikes by directing it to the ground. ALPS takes a different approach: it reduces the chances of a strike happening at all, by suppressing the electric field buildup that leads to leader generation.
What kind of facilities benefit most from CFG’s Advanced Lightning Protection System?
Any high-value or mission-critical site — especially where downtime, fire risk, or data/equipment loss is unacceptable. This includes refineries, defense sites, radar systems, data centres, and hospitals.
Do CFG’s Advanced Lightning Protection System meet international standards?
Yes. Our systems are designed in accordance with IEC 62305 and other international lightning protection standards — and often go beyond them in performance.
Can I integrate CFG’s Advanced Lightning Protection System into an existing facility?
Absolutely. We often retrofit older sites with modern protection, and our engineers can customize a solution that works with your current infrastructure.
How do I know if my current lightning protection is sufficient?
We offer lightning risk assessments and audits that evaluate your site’s exposure, simulate lightning paths, and identify gaps in your existing protection.
Ready to Upgrade Your Lightning Protection?
Ensure your facility is protected with the right lightning protection system. Discover how ALPS can deliver the safety and reliability your facility needs.
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