Читать книгу Lightning Rod Conference - Various - Страница 18

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There are single points and branching points, fine points and blunt points, cones, spikes, balls with spikes on top, and balls with radiating spikes.

The dimensions vary with each form, and they are made of solid copper and copper tube, of brass, of iron, and of gun-metal. The ends are sometimes silvered, sometimes gilt, and sometimes tipped with platinum. But there is no rule or uniformity; and one manufacturer acknowledges that, while he sometimes tips the points with platinum, he considers the practice to be altogether superfluous.

Now it is clear that if there be any electrical efficacy in points as points, they should be made in such a form, and of such a material, as to maintain their efficiency permanently. The writer is very strongly of opinion that the efficiency of lightning conductors is due principally to the peculiar electrical action of their points. He sees no advantage whatever in multiplying these points. In his opinion each conductor should end in one fine platinum point. It would thus act as a dissipator of the electric charge in its immediate neighbourhood, and would then prevent, and not favour discharge. Moreover, points demand frequent inspection, attention, and renewal. He thinks that one function of the Conference should be to examine some of these points in situ, if possible. At present they are erected and left to their fate.