The Lightning Arrestor Connector

A multipin connector has been modified to include lightning arresting features. A dielectric stimulated arc is used for rapid electrical, breakdown in the connector prior to any damage to downstream components. This report reviews the connector design basis and concept, and summarizes the electrical test results obtained during development and production. Electrical testing included insulation resistance, high voltage rise rate (to 500 kV/µs) tests and simulated lightning (over 200 kA) exposures. The lightning arrestor connector has been effective under all tests maintaining an insulation resistance over 100 M, and shorting fast rise lightning induced voltages to about 1000 V. A final test of a missile system showed the lightning arrestor connector effectively protected missile components against simulated lightning.