Grounding is one of the most important components of electrical systems used to protect people and equipment from electrical hazards. This article introduces grounding equipment, types of grounding systems, and the benefits of using them.
Introduction
As part of the critical infrastructure in modern societies, electrical systems need protection and safety. Grounding is an important method to prevent electric shock and protect electrical equipment. This article discusses grounding equipment, types of grounding systems, and the benefits of using them.
Grounding Equipment
Grounding equipment includes various electrodes that are used to connect directly to the ground. These equipment are divided into two main categories:
1. Rod electrodes
Rod electrodes are made of copper, galvanized steel, or composite alloys. These electrodes are planted vertically in the ground and are suitable for sandy areas and dry soils. The length and diameter of the rod electrodes are selected based on the soil resistance and environmental conditions.
2. Plate electrodes
Plate electrodes are made of copper or galvanized iron and are placed vertically in a pit in the ground. These electrodes are suitable for high humidity conditions and should be placed in soil with sufficient moisture to have better performance.
3. Strip or wire electrodes
These electrodes are buried horizontally in sandy or soil trenches. Strip electrodes are usually made of galvanized iron or steel and are not suitable for areas with hard soil. Due to their greater length, these electrodes have lower resistance and are suitable for larger systems.
4. Tubular Electrodes
Tubular electrodes are made of galvanized steel pipes and are planted vertically in the ground. These electrodes are very widely used due to their low cost and ease of installation.
Types of Grounding Systems
Grounding systems are divided into several categories:
1. Protective grounding system
This system is used to protect people and equipment from electric shock. The metal body of electrical equipment is connected to the ground so that if it becomes energized, the electric current is directed to the ground and electric shock is prevented.
2. Safety grounding system
This system is used to stabilize the neutral point of transformers and generators. Safety grounding helps the equipment to function properly and prevents damage to them.
3. Lightning arrester grounding system
This system is used to prevent damage to tall structures caused by lightning. Lightning rods are installed on the top of buildings and conduct the electrical current caused by lightning to the ground.
Benefits of using grounding equipment
The use of grounding equipment has many benefits:
Protection of humans and animals: Grounding prevents electric shock and injury to humans and animals.
Equipment protection: Grounding prevents damage to electrical equipment from overload and short circuits.
Fire risk reduction: Grounding prevents current leakage and the risk of fire that results from it.
