National Electrical Grounding Research Project

 

Technical Report

 

The National Electrical Code specifies ways to achieve an electrical ground through the use of grounding electrode systems. In response to a concern regarding the long term performance of these systems, in 1995, the Fire Protection Research Foundation established The National Electrical Grounding Research Project to document the performance of grounding electrode systems over time.

 

The purpose of the project is the evaluation of the effects of different environmental and soil conditions on the effectiveness of several types of grounding electrode systems over time. This project’s goal is to produce quantifiable, scientific data for possible use by codewriters, and for manufacturers, designers, facility owners, insurers and inspectors of grounding electrode systems. Test results may help to identify better grounding practices by matching the optimum performing electrode type (minimum resistance, least corrosion) to the appropriate environmental and soil condition.

 

Click here to read this entire report prepared by Travis Lindsey (Travis Lindsey Consulting Services Inc.) for The Fire Protection Research Foundation.