Influences of Lighting Strikes on Pipelines

Since pipelines are widely distributed and highly net-worked, they are often influenced by interference voltages from various sources such as parallel high-voltage lines, traction power supply systems, earth fault currents and lightning effects. Lightning strikes pose a significant risk to pipelines that run both above and below ground. The extremely high temperatures and electrical currents generated by a lightning strike can cause structural damage to pipelines. This damage can lead to environmental pollution and significant economic losses. In addition, lightning strikes can compromise the integrity of protective coatings and insulation, increasing the susceptibility of pipelines to corrosion. Finally, personal protection must also be considered. Various protective measures are therefore essential to ensure the safety and integrity of pipelines. This paper discusses effects of lightning influences on pipelines. Authors’ observations and experience is discussed with the help of software simulations and field observations to create useful recommendations for protective measures.