CMCE Lightning Prevention for Yachts | Sertec Marine
The Sertec Marine CMCE system is an advanced lightning prevention technology developed specifically for sailing yachts, superyachts and motor yachts operating in regions prone to electrical storms.
Unlike conventional lightning protection systems that are designed to conduct a strike safely to ground after impact, the CMCE system works continuously to manage atmospheric electrical field conditions around the vessel. By dissipating electrostatic charge build-up, the system is designed to minimise the conditions that can lead to lightning attachment.
Technical Marine Supplies are the exclusive European distributor for Sertec Marine CMCE technology, providing technical support, specification advice and worldwide supply to yacht builders, refit yards, surveyors and vessel owners.
Why Lightning Protection Matters on Yachts
Yachts are naturally vulnerable during electrical storms. Tall masts, antennas, carbon rigging and elevated structures can make a vessel one of the highest points on the water.
A lightning strike can result in:
- Destruction of onboard electronics
- Navigation system failure
- Instrument damage
- Communication system failure
- Hull and structural damage
- Injury to crew members
- Expensive insurance claims
For modern yachts with sophisticated electrical systems, preventative protection is becoming increasingly important.
How the CMCE Marine System Works
The CMCE Marine device operates as a passive electrostatic field compensation system.
The technology continuously absorbs and compensates atmospheric electrical charges, directing them safely through the vessel's grounding arrangement and into the surrounding water.
By stabilising the electrical field around the yacht, the system helps prevent the formation of the upward streamer that can initiate a lightning attachment.
The result is a protective electrostatic envelope around the vessel that reduces the probability of a direct lightning strike.
Benefits of the Sertec Marine CMCE System
Designed Specifically for Marine Use
- The CMCE Marine system has been developed for the unique operating conditions experienced by yachts and commercial vessels.
Continuous Passive Protection
- No moving parts, no operator intervention and no power consumption requirements.
Protects Valuable Electronics
- Helps reduce the risk of catastrophic damage to navigation equipment, communications equipment and onboard electrical systems.
Suitable for New Builds and Refits
- Can be installed during construction or retrofitted to existing vessels.
Recognised Marine Certifications
- Lloyd's, RINA and NATO approvals provide additional confidence for owners, captains and specifiers.
Applications
The CMCE Marine system is suitable for:
- Sailing yachts
- Performance yachts
- Cruising yachts
- Superyachts
- Catamarans
- Motor yachts
- Commercial vessels
- USVs
- Military and government vessels
Proven Marine Lightning Protection
The SERTEC CMCE Marine system is the only marine lightning prevention system with Lloyd's, RINA and NATO approvals. The technology has been specified on sailing yachts, superyachts, commercial vessels, defence platforms and unmanned surface vessels operating worldwide.
CMCE vs Traditional Lightning Conductors
Traditional lightning protection systems are designed to conduct a lightning strike safely through the vessel after impact.
CMCE technology takes a preventative approach by managing atmospheric charge conditions around the vessel and reducing the likelihood of lightning attachment
CMCE systems are commonly specified on vessels operating in lightning-prone regions such as the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Gulf Coast and tropical cruising areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the CMCE system attract lightning?
- No. The system is designed to manage atmospheric charge conditions and reduce the likelihood of lightning attachment.
Can the CMCE system be installed on existing yachts?
- Yes. The system can be specified for both new construction projects and retrofit installations.
Is the system suitable for carbon fibre masts?
- Yes. TMS can advise on installation requirements for carbon and aluminium mast applications.
Does the system require maintenance?
- The system is designed as a passive device with minimal maintenance requirements.
Is technical support available?
- Yes. Technical Marine Supplies provides specification and installation support throughout Europe and worldwide.
The SERTEC CMCE Marine system is the only approved marine lightning protection system with Lloyd's, RINA and NATO approvals, making it a compelling solution for professional marine applications where vessel protection, risk reduction and system reliability are critical requirements.
As a specialist B2B marine distributor, Technical Marine Supplies works closely with boat builders, marine consultants, naval architects, commercial fleet operators, defence contractors and superyacht projects to provide technical support, product specification guidance and worldwide supply.
Technical Marine Supplies supports boat builders, commercial vessel operators, naval architects, defence projects, system integrators and OEM manufacturers with specialist vessel protection technologies
Contact our technical team today to discuss lightning protection requirements, vessel specifications or project quotations.