Despite being a hidden element, the earthing system is an essential element in the proper functioning of any electrical system. However, due to its characteristics and location, it must be correctly executed for the proper maintenance of the system, of the connected assets, and to guarantee the safety of people.
Earthing, as we have explained on other occasions, is an indispensable element in any electrical system, both to guarantee safety and to ensure correct performance and regulatory compliance, given that it protects people and the connected equipment. It is, to use an analogy, the roots of any installation: even if they are buried, they must be strong and stable to prevent the whole system from collapsing.
Given its fundamental role, the earthing system must be well executed from the outset to avoid the risks arising from any of the most common faults that can occur. Such faults can result in anything from rapid degradation of connected electrical equipment to risk to human life.
A quick look at earthing systems
In several previous articles, we have discussed earthing systems: from their fundamentals and importance to how to achieve a proper grounding system that reduces the risk of faults and performs optimally.
In addition, we have compiled some of the most frequently asked questions, such as the particularities of an earthing system for lightning protection systems or which elements are necessary to design an efficient system.
Earthing system – the most frequent risks of inadequate earthing
Broadly speaking, the most common risks of not having Some of the most frequent consequences of not having a good earthing system are:
- Risk of electric shock: Lack of proper grounding can allow electrical currents to flow through unintended paths, such as the human body, increasing the risk of electric shock.
- Risk of fire: A poor grounding system can result in loose or improperly established connections, which can lead to fires.
- Risk of damaging overvoltages: Surge protective devices (SPDs) direct excess energy to ground, keeping the peak voltage at a safe level for connected equipment. However, if the earthing system is in poor condition or has a high impedance, the ability to divert the surge is reduced, increasing the risk of damage to equipment from the effects of excess voltage.
- Power differential risks: Lack of equipotential bonding of a common low impedance point on all circuits can prevent voltage stabilisation under normal operating conditions, affecting the performance and safety of connected equipment.
- Regulatory non-compliance: Every electrical installation must have an earthing system to protect people and connected equipment. In Spain, for example, this requirement is mandatory in compliance with the Low Voltage Electrotechnical Regulation (REBT in Spanish), and is detailed in ITC-BT-18.
Earthing systems – Our approach
Ensuring an adequate earthing system is an investment in safety and efficiency in the long term, due to its vital role in the electrical installation of any structure.
Our earthing systems 4.0 projects include:
- A prior geoelectric study to determine the stratification and resistivity of the ground. At Aplicaciones Tecnológicas S.A. we have a very competitive geoelectric study service.
- Designs based on international standards, packed with advanced software to determine the best solution objectively.
- Use of anti-theft conductors and specific electrodes according to the particularities of the terrain: corrosion-resistant electrodes for aggressive soils, special electrodes and/or perimeter conductor rings for highly resistive soils, etc.
- Durable connections between conductors using Apliweld® Secure + exothermic welding, keeping them in optimal condition throughout the lifespan of the installation.
If you want to know more about earthing and the materials needed to make it efficient, you can contact us via the following link.
You can also attend any of our free webinars on earthing systems on our training page for professionals.
