[Alberg30] Faraday's cage lightning protection

[J Bergquist]

Dear List,

I've asked about this before, and George gave me a very good answer, 
which was that the best way to avoid being struck by lightning is to 
lead an upstanding life.

What I want to know is does the Alberg 30 mast/rigging form Faraday's cage?

The answer to this question, I think, lies in answering the question of 
whether or not the conductor must be grounded in order for Faraday's 
cage to be well-formed. Since the mast is deck-stepped, and the keel is 
encapsulated, the A30 does not appear grounded as delivered from the 
factory. However, it would be possible to install an aftermarket ground, 
I would think (though this would doubtless have implications for bonding 
and galvanic corrosion, issues I'd just as soon not think about if I 
don't have to).

So I'm wondering if the A30 as rigged (ie. ungrounded) provides a 
Faraday's cage type protection from electromagnetic discharge, or is it 
necessary for the conductor(s) to be grounded in order for Faraday's 
cage to be well-formed.

Having spent a few nights this summer out during thunderstorms, I'd 
personally like to know whether or not I should worry about installing a 
ground this winter.

Anybody know about this?

J Bergquist
#287 Calliope
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