CSS Lightning Protection System

The CSS-15 is a single cable system which requires the semi-permanent installation of a contact plate to the mast of the sailboat. It is suitable for both catamarans and sailboats. It has one high capacity conductor cable capable of withstanding multiple lightning strikes to which is attached a uniquely designed electrical dissipater electrode that hangs overboard and is submerged in the water.

The Strikeshield ensures that a proper electrical ground between the mast and the water is established through its contact plate, conductor cable and dissipater electrode.

 

The tinned copper contact plate is screwed to the front of the mast (on a flat area) with marine grade stainless steel screws.

It bears a 20mm connection stud in the center. The actual dissipater assembly is attached to this connection stud with a specially designed clamp.

You fit it around the stud and with a few quick turns of the hand,

 

it creates a perfect connection to the mast. It is the proximity of this contact plate assembly to the mast along with the quality of the components and their inter-connections that ensures proper conductivity and grounding during a strike

The CSS system package includes the LRAT Air Terminal.