potential equalizing bar

A potential equalization bar( PAS) is a connecting bar for internal lightning protection that prevents voltage differences with possible voltage flashovers in the event of a lightning strike. All electrically conductive equipment and low-voltage circuits are connected to it and connected to the lightning protection system and the earth electrode.

In detail, the protective conductor of the low-voltage supply, the antenna system, gas, water and heating pipes and the telephone and fuse system are connected to the equipotential bonding rail and connected to the lightning protection system and the earth electrode.

Potential equalization bar (PAS), photo: Moria.de.

If the grounding resistance is too high, a voltage will build up on the equipotential bonding rail when lightning strikes. Since this is directly dependent on the lightning current and the grounding resistance, it can rise to extremely high voltage values and overvoltage can occur on the live conductors.

According to DIN VDE 0618, seven equipotential bonding conductors can be connected to one equipotential bonding rail. The equipotential bonding rail itself is made of strip steel and has a cross-section of up to 30 mm wide and a thickness of 3.5 mm.