Grounding, also referred to as earthing, connects an electrical circuit or device to the ground to create a secure path for electrical current. In electrical systems, grounding is integral in maintaining their safety and dependability.

Grounding creates a low-resistance path for electrical current to flow in case of an electrical fault or overload. Grounding helps protect against electrical shocks, fires, and damage to equipment. Grounding is accomplished by connecting metal parts of an electrical system to the earth with a grounding electrode. Usually, a metal rod or plate is buried underground.

Effective grounding systems are essential for guaranteeing the safety and dependability of electrical systems. Here are the primary elements that make up an effective grounding system:

1. Grounding Electrodes: Grounding electrodes are metal rods or plates buried in the earth that provide a low-resistance path for electrical current to flow to the ground. Common grounding electrodes include copper rods, steel rods, and ground rings.
2. Grounding Conductor: This wire or cable connects electrical equipment to the earthing electrodes. Ideally, this conductor should have low resistance and be capable of carrying high currents in case of an electrical short.
3. Grounding Busbar: This metal bar or plate acts as a connector between multiple grounding conductors. Ideally, the busbar should have low resistance and be capable of carrying high currents.
4. Ground Fault Protection Devices: Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) and ground fault relays are designed to detect and interrupt the electrical current in case of a ground fault. They serve as an essential safety feature in grounding systems.
5. Lightning Protection System: A lightning protection system is designed to safeguard electrical systems against lightning strikes, with components such as lightning rods, grounding electrodes and surge arresters. It helps protect electrical equipment during lightning strikes by providing grounding electrodes and surge arresters.

For nearly half a century, Swartz Engineering has been at the forefront of industry safety. They are a family-owned company specializing in power distribution for the electrical industry. They are the leading manufacturer of mobile electrical substations. 

Jeff R. Gordon