OBJECTIVES

After studying this unt, the reader will understand systems that are required to be grounded, those that are permitted but not required to be grounded, and those circuits that are not permitted to be grounded. grounding requlrements for grounded systems.

installing and sizing grounded service and system conductors. system conductors that are required to be grounded. function and sizing of main and system bonding [umpers, I grounding requirements for separately derived svsterns. grounding for two ar more buildings supplied bya feeder ar branch bircuit.
-i

requirements for Igrounding portable and vehiciemounted generators. requirements svsterns. for high-impedance grounded neutral

61

62

UNIT 2

S stern Grounding

250. O.ALTEANATINGCURRENT IRCUITS ANO SYST MS TO BE

GROUNDE
The Requirement: Alternating-current circuits and systems are require~ to be grounded (connected to earth) if the system rneets any of the conditions in 250.20(A), (B), (C), or (D).
whether the electrical systems are requir~d to be grounded, the voltage supplied by the system is a major factor, ln some cases, the requirement for grounding depends on whether the system 3-phase and whether the neutral conductor is used as a system (current-carrying) conductor. Most circuits and systems that are not required to be ground dare permitted to be grounded. Only a few systems ar circuits are not permitted to be grounded. When systems that are not required to be grounded are grounded, they rnust be grounded in accordance with the applicable provisions of Article 250.

;;====f==I==d)1 iF=:;;;:;:f;::::F;;;:::;;;::;~

3-Ph, 3-W 240V Delta System PhA to B 240 V Ph Bto C 240 V Ph A to C 240 V li Ph A to Grnd 240 V !! I" ..... '~ Ph B to Grnd 240 V !! >;~::::).'.'~" Ph C to Grnd OV !' )'. ~ ..' -, -,1)

~~:P

Discussion: In considering

rs

1\ 6>1

_-

! Route grounded iI conductor to service _ J! 1 and cond to enolosure.

~L.-

I I

----1

===~1I.~~"11
'~i======:::::::::::iil
w.~

Informational ~ote: An example of a system

permitted but n~f required to be grounded is a corner-grounded delta transformer connecdono See 250.2~ 4) for the conductor to be grounded.

FIGURE 2-1 Svsterns permitted but not required to be grounded, 250.20 Informationa/ Note. ( Cengage Leaming ______ ~ __ ~. __ .B2012) _

250.20(A) A!ternating-Current Systems of Less Than 50 Volts

systems of less than 50 volts are required to be grounded under any of the following conditions: 1. Where supplied by transforrners, if the transformer supply systern exceeds 150 volts to ground. 2. Where supplied by transformers, if the transformer supply system 1S ungrounded. 3. Where installed outside as overhead conductors. Figure 2-2 illustrates these three conditions.

Discussion: Although this Informational Note refers to a corner-grounded delta-connected transformer as a system permitted but not required to be grounded, such a system must meet the I50-volt test of 250.20(A)( 1) If the delta-connected transformer bank has 120-volt transformer connections, the system would be required to be grounded, because if one comer of the delta-connected system is grounded, the other phases of the delta connections would be less than 150 volts to zround. Manv of I these optionally grounded systems are 240-volt or 480-volt, 3-phase, 3-wre, delta-connected systems, As shown in Figure 2-1, if one transformer phase is grounded, the voltagf to ground on the other phases would be greater than 150 volts, and thus this system would not be required to be grounded. See the ?iscussi~n followin& 250.20(A)(1) for additional information, I

The Requirements: Alternating-current

Dtscussion: Yoltage to ground is defined in Article

100. The main principles can be summarized as follows: For grounded circuits, the voltage to ground is the difference in potential between the ungrounded conductor or portion of the circuit anel the conductor

UNIT 2 System Grounding

63

!
> 150V

t
< 50V

Where the

primary voltage
exceeds 150

volts

7,200 V

120 V

t
I
240 V

-+
120 V

Voltage-to-ground s 120 as that is the difference in potental between grounded ano ungrouned polnts,

Where the prirnary of the transformer is ungrounded

13,800 V Where lnstalted as overhead conductors outside of buildings

t
t
I

480 V

t
~

t
I I

tI
480 V

~
I Vo!tage-to-ground on ungrounded system is 480 as I that would be the difference in p.otential should one ungrounded co~ductor become grounded. j

FIGURE 22 Alternating-current systems less than 50 volts required t~ be grounded, 250.20(A). ( Cengage Learning 2012)

FIGURE 2-3

Definition of Voltage to Groutui, Article 100. (@Cengage Leaming 2012)

or portion of the circlJit that is grounded. For ungrounded circuits, the ~oltage to ground 1S considered the greatest voltagc pctween th~ given c~nductor and any other conductor of the circurt. This rule applies because if one o~ the conductors of the ungraunded system bccom s grounded, the other side of the circuit or svstem h. s a potential to zround that equals the system voltage. See Figure 2-3.
..; .... u .

250.20(8) Altern~ting-CUrrent
Systems of 50 Vf'ts to 1000 Volts
systerns of 50 volts to less than 1000 volts that supply premises wiring and premises wiring systems are required to be grounded under any of the following conditions:

The Requirement: Alternating-current

Discussion: An understanding of the term premises

wiring systems as it is de Ined in Article 100 is esse~tial because it detem1iyes ~~e systerns ~hat ar~ ~equired to be grounded. As defined, premtses wlrmg

begins at the service point (another term defined in Article 100) and includes "interior and exterior wiring, including power, lighting, control, and signal circuit wiring, together with all of their associated hardware, fittings, and wiring devices, both permanently and temporarily installed."* Premises wiring includes the source of power from the electric utility (lhe service[s]) and other sources ofpower such as a battery, a solar photovoltaic systern, ar a generator, transformer, or converter windings, Premises wiring extends from the source of power to the outlet(s) anel inc1udes the services) and all feeders and branch circuits, The definition of premises wiring also includes the wiring from the source of power, such as a separately derived system to the outlets if there is no service point. Such wiring does n01 include wiring internal to appliances, luminaires, motors, controllers, motor control centers, and similar equipment,
"'Reprintcd wth perrnission from NFPA 70-201 J.

_,, __ .64 _j

UNIr 2 S stem Grounding

The Requirement: 250.20(B)( 1). The systern is required to be grounded if it can be grounded 50 the maxin.1Ul11 VOl.,age ground on the ungrounded cone ductors does not e ceed 150 volts.

tb

Discussion: When one of the system conductors is grounded, the othey system conductors rise to a specific voltage ab~velground. For syste~s supplie? by transforrners, this Y0ltage to g.round 18 determined by the voltage supplied to the primary and the ratio " theori . di 01 le pnmary to t 11 te secou d ary win mgs, _ Co~mo~ syst4ms that meet the conditions .of 2)0.20(B}( 1) and fherefore must be grounded include the followina; 120-volt, l-phle, 2-wre systems 120/240- volt, iphase, 3- wire systems 208Y/120-volt 3-phase, 4-wire systems

are 120240-volt, 1 phase, This system consists 0:- _ transformer with a 240-volt secondary that is cen;~ tapped. This allows the occupant to use equipmerated for 240 volts as well as 120 volts. The sy~.:'= is single phase in spite of the multiple voltages are available. The 208Y /120 volt, 3-phase, 4-wire sysrezr -consists of three 120-volt transformers that are co'"nected together at one end. That point is the commec, point where the system is grounded. Of course, primary is also 3-phase, with the phases 120 electncal degrees apart. If you use a volt meter and measure from phase to phase, it will read approximately 208 volts. Thl,:. can be determined mathematically as 120 volts X 1.732 = 207.84 volts In common usage, this is rounded up to 208, T12' multiplier L 732 is used because ir is the square roo; of 3 and this is a 3-phase system. The Requirement: 250.20(B)(2).. The system is required to be grounded if ir is a 3-phase, 4-wire, wyeconnected system in which the neutra} is used as a circuit conductor.

These systems are shown in Figure 2-4, It is uncommon for the electric utility to supply a
120-volt service,
<

Imost all services in this class

~(

J
~

,1
----~ 12~

120-volt,1-phase, 2-wire system

Discussion:

+JI t
240 V

1211

A 240-volt transformer ls center-tapped to create 120/240 volt, t-phase, 3-wire system

Three 120-volt transformers are 120 V connected at one end to form vvye configuration. Phase-to-pbase voltage

is:
120

1.732

= 208

volts

fiGURE 24
be grounded,

Svst ms 50 to 1000 volts required to

250. '0(8)(1). ( Cengage Leaming 2012)

Three-phase, 4-wire, wye-connecte systerns are created by connecting three singlephase transforrners or three windings in a "Y(wye) configuration. The center points of the three transformers are connected together. As can be seen in Figure 2-5, this system can easily supply single-phase loads by connecting a load from the center terminal of the transformers to one of the outer terminais of a transformer. The center terminal is usually identified as "XO" and the ungrounded terminais are identified as "Xl ," "X2," or "X3." It can also supply a higher-voltage "singlephase" load by connecting the load between two of the outer terminais of the transformers. For 208Y1l20-volt transformers, the voltage between phases is 208 volts, and for 480Y/277-volt transforrners the voltage is 480 volts, The transformer bank can also supply 3-phase loads by connecting loads between each of the ungrounded terminals of the transformers. Although not required by the Code, these wyeconnected transformers usually are delta connected on the primary side. This configuration allows for

UNIT 2 System Grounding

65

~~

~ __ 2_0!~V_

208 V

20r
120

1 1

600Y/346-volt, 3-phase, 4-wire (used in some industrial plants; may not have a grounded system conductor when there are no line-toneutral loads) These systems are represented in Figure 2-5.

Tire Requirement: 250,20(B)(3). The system is required to be grounded if it is 3-phase, 4-wire, delta connected, in which the midpoint of one phase winding is used as a circuit conductor.

1.732 = 208 Volts

Discussion: These systerns are commonly installed

when it is desired or required to supply both 3-phase loads at the higher delta-connected system voltages and single-phase loads for lighting and/or receptacles. The common voltages are 120/240-volt, 3-phase, 4-wire. The midpoint of one 01' the transformers is tapped to create a portion the system that is 120/240-v01t, single-phase, As a result, the system is required to be grounded. The Code refers to such a system as one that has a conductor or busbar having lhe higher phase voltage to ground. This conductor having the highcr voltage to ground is required to be identified durably and permanently by an outer finish thatis orange in color or by other effective means, This identification is required to be placed at each point on the system where a connection is made if the grounded conductor also is present. See the requirernents for identificaton in 110.15, for phase arrangement in 408.3( E), and for field marking requirements in 408.3(F). The higher voltage to ground is approximately 208 volts. See Figure 2-6. The voltage of me

277 x 1.732 = 480 Volts

ar

FIGURE 2*5 Wye-con~ected systems required to be grounded, 250.20(B){2J. (@CengageLeamng2012)

efficient operation, 3-wire supply to lhe primary and a 4-wre secondary. The wording in which the neutral is used as a circuit conductor indicates that a line-toneutral load is SUPPli11. For 480Y/277-volt sysrems, these l~a~s. woul be rated at 277 volts, such as 277-volt lighting sy tems. Therefore, a system l snpplied by a 3-Phase'r ye-connected transformer where the neutral is not grounded is not required to nave a neutral extende to a disconnect, such as a service disconnectin~. ?1e~nS, if there ~re no lineto-neutral loads supplied. (Recall the bO-volts-toground rules dscussedl under 250.20(B)(1). These 208Y/120-volt wye-collnected systems are required :0 begrounded even though line-to-neutral loads are not supplied.) Systems that meet the conditions of 250.20( B)(2) ~d t~erefore must grounded include the following:

t
I I

240'1
1

pe

120 V

208Y/120-volt, 3-P?ase, 4-wire 480Y/277-volt, 3-ppase, 4-wire, in which the neutral is used a circuit conductor 575Y/332-volt, 3-phase, 4-wire (used in some industrial plants: may not have a grounded system conductor when there are no line-toneutral loads)

-=

asl

120 V

t
t

I I 240 V
I

i
I

240 V

FIGURE 2-6 Delta-connected systems required to be grounded, 250.20(8)(3). ( Cengage Learning 2012)

66

UNIT 2 SvsternGrounding

fl~_J

Conductor wm higher voltage

'1 to

ground identified orange

= =

conductor with the h~gher voltage to ground is determined by the followirg formula: Yz the system voltage X'J3 For a 120!240-vblt, ground is (240/2) 3-phase, -l-wire system, the

voltage of the conductor with the higher voltage to

panelboards to be installed. The first one will be 120/240 volt, 3 phase, 4 wire, and the second will be 120/240 volt, J phase, 3 wire, Electricians are encouraged to connect 3-phase-only oads to the 3-phase panelboard and not to connect any line-toneutral loads to it. Line-to-neutral loads should be supplied onlyfrom the l-phase panelboard.

126

x 1.732 = 207.8 volts

As c~n.be seen trom Fig~re 2-7, ~t is important for electricians to aware of these higher voltages when connecting brrnch circuits from panelboards supplied by 1201240-volt, 3-phase, 4-wire systems. For 208Y/120-volt systems, it is common to install a multiwire branch ciTut with a conductor c?llI~ect~d to phases A, B, and c: and the neutral. On this crrcuit, each ungrounded conductor has a voltage to ground

b9

of 120 volts. If a Sim~'l. ar set of conductors 1S installed from a 1201240-vol, 3-phase, 4-wire systern, two 01' the ungrounded onductors-phase A and phase C-will have a voltage to ground of 120 volts, and lhe B phase conductor will have a voltage to ground of 208 volts. Obviously, this higher voltage can have disastrous consequences if the equipment supplied is
I

CAUTION: lf the electrical system is grounde by the utility, be aware that 250.24( C) requires the grounded conductor to be installed as far as the service disconnecting means and to be bonded to the enclosure, This requirement applies for the service installed for 3-phase power loads, even though allloads will be connected 3 phase. This grounded system conductor serves to carry any Iine-to-ground-fault current that develops at the service equipment or downstrearn from the service. See the comment in 250.24( C) for the sizing rules.
Depending on the connected loads, it is 110t uncommon for electric utilities to install a larger transtormer for the sngle-phasc loads (A- to C-phase transformer with a grounded midpoint) and smaller transformer for the 3-phase loads. It is also not uncommon for the electric utility to instal1 two transforrners connected in open delta configuration (the A- to C-transformer with a grounded midpoint plus one other transformer).

intended to be SUpp!ed at ] 20 volts. In an attempt to avoid improper connections, some utilitie require two separare service

UNIT 2 System Grounding

_ 67

250.20(D) Impedi' nce Grounded

Neutral Systems The Requirement: Impedance grounded neutra! systems are required to be g lounded in accordance with 250.36 or 250.186. Discussion: Grounding high-impedance grounded neutral systems is disJussed later in this book, in 2:0.36. Obviously, thes9 systems are grounded, but through an impedance device rather than through a solid connection. ~

I !
~il
ii

lf

Fi====I==t=t=,~-"i1
1

I
I

System not required to be grounded for: 1, Industrial electric turnaces

for melting, reflning,

tempering, ete. 2 Rectifiers for adjustable

1I

II
I

11 ~

!
I

'Ir -.

..

I!~

I~

I'

1,:'1 I
11

:I li II

11 speed drives

I 3. Separatey derived systems i for contrai clrcults I I 4. Systems not ,;qUired to be I

grounded by &'SO.20(B) ,

~==.==~~ ' LTERNATINGCURRENT SY TEMS OF 50 VOLTS TO 100 VOLTS NOT BEQUIRE TO SE GBOUNDED
250.21~.
250.21 (A) Gene~al The Requirements: The following ac systerns of 50
'olts to 1000 volts are permitted to be grounded but are not be required to belgrounded: 1. Electric systems Jed exclusively to supply industrial electric fu!-naces for melting, refining, tempering, and thilike. 1, Separately derive1 systems used exclusively for rectifiers that supply only adjustable-speed industrial drives. I 3. Separately derived systems supplied by transformers that have ~ primary voltage rating less than 1000 volts, p~ovided that all the following I d" cone itions are met: a. The system is hsed exclusively circuits, .. I ' . b. The conditions of mamtenance for control

~~~~) ~,?:,
,

~~:~~l

!(

FIGURE 2-8

Systems

to be 9 rounded, 250.21.

permitted but not required (@ Cengage Leamng 2012)

and supervision ensure that only qualified persons service the installation. c. Conti~uity of dontrol power is required. Other systems that are not required to be grounded in accordance with the requirements of 250.20(B). - _cussioll: This section contains rules on electri systems t'I I . d but are not require . d ~.;;... rat are permtte '='egrounded. As sh0r,n in the list, many of these , stems are not grOUndjd and most of these systems

are installed in industrial occupancies. The most common reason electrical systems are not grounded, when there is an option to do 50, is to try to achieve operational reliability. Figure 2-8 shows these systems. As discussed extensively in Unit 1, ungrounded systems are not affected by the first ground fault other that the ground fault simply grounds the system. Little, if any, current will flow in the fault path. Certainly, not enough current will fow to cause an overcurrent device to operate. See Figure 1-12 and the accornpanying discussion on 250.4(B)(2). If the first ground fault is not located and the insulation integrity restored before the second ground fault occurs on a different phase, a short circuit or phase-to-phase fault is established, The impedance of the system and the available fault current determine the amount of current that will flow in the short circuit. Conductive paths between lhe faults will carry current. The path includes the metallic wiring method that usually includes conduits, motor starters, disconnects, wireways, locknuts, and fittings. Arcing and sparking occurs where these connections are not tight, which can be the source of ignition in the presence of combustible material. See Figure 1-13 and the accompanying discussion on 250.4(B)(2).

68

UNIT2 System Grounding

IUnqrounded
I system
L

li
.-1

delta-connected

~r ,1

250.21 (B) Ground Detectors

TIU!Requirement: Ground detectors (for ungrc,n, ed systems) are required to be installed in ::,:dance with the following:
1. Ungrounded alternating current systems a.': permitted in 250.21(A)(1) through (A){4) operating at not less than 120 volts and not exceeding 1000 volts are required to have ground detectors installed on the system, 2. The ground detection-sensing equiprnent is required to be connected as dose as practicable to where the system receives its supply.

I~roLlnded throug~
i dlstributed I

l---:?"

capabtance (

T T T
_ _

..L-

FIGURE 2-9 Systems grounded through distributed capacitane. ( Cengage Leaming 2012)

I
These systems are unzrounded in name onlv. In reality, the systems are~inductively and capacitively coupled to gro~nd, as shown in Figure 2-9. This occurs when theJ~nergized conductor is insulated and installed inside metal conduits and other r~ceways .that a.re grpunded. The ~nsul~tion a~t8 Iike the dielectric between conductive plates o a
capacitor.

Discussion: Ground detection on ungrounded systerns has direct operational benefits to industna plants because the first ground fault will be detected and indicated. The type of system groundfault indication varies by the sophistication of the equipment and can range from light bulbs that extnguish when a ground-fault occurs on that phase to both a light and horn or bell and local and remete
annunciation. Ungrounded electrical systems are usual1y installed to provide operational continuity because the first ground fault does not cause an overcurrent device to open but simply grounds the system. Ideally, maintenance electricians will locate the ground fault and make repairs before a second ground fault

An induced voltase to ground builds up on the conductor, which con~monly will be about one half ?f the ~ystel11.voltage long as there are no sputtermg ar mtermutent ground faults on the system. For a 480-volt ungrounded system, the "half-voltage"

10

of approximately

240 volts presents a severe shock

occurs. A second ground fault

011

a different phase

hazard to maintenance personnel, who may not be aware of the operational nature of these systems. Sputtering or intermittent faults oecur when the insulation breaks down, often as a result of damage to the conductors or where chafing occurs, such as at vibrating motors or other equipment. Because lhe
system is not grounded and little current flows in the fault, not enough current is present either to weld the conductor to the reta1 conduit or other enclosure through a high-temperature are or to burn itself

from the first fauIt can result in the opening of one

or more overcurrent devices provided the current flowing in the fault path is above the tripping point of the circuit breaker or the melting point of a fuse. Ths can result in disruption of the operations in the
plant.

Ground-detection systems are available ranging from the fairly simple to the sophisticated, The
Code does not specify the leve} or type of grounddetection systems to be installed. Some systems, consisting of light bulb arrangements, are made on site. Manufacturers of busway systems often have a ground-fault-indicating plug available as an accessory that plugs into the busway. This equipment

clear. These sputteri~g faults can cause transient overvoltages ou the~ ystem that are several tin:es
the system voltage. 1 1S e1evated voltage can easily exceed the dielectric rithstand rating of conductor insulation as well as that of motor and transformer windings. Premature failure of these system components can often be traced back to these transient

overvoltages.

often includes a resistor that is connected to ground and has voltage taps for eonnecting instrument lamps. This equipment has the effect of grounding me ungrounded system through the resistors, which

UNIT 2

System Grounding

69

Ungrounded
~]

delta-connected system

.:
operating over combustible fibers ln Class IlIlocations

es

Inicationcircu~ (sensng and alarm circuit not shown)

W ~

311~
I Circuits
~

I provded
!

in health care facililies as in 517.61 and 517.160

FIGURE 2-10 (@

Grond-detection

system.

cengatea,mn~~
to prevent

_
transient

Circuits for equipment withn I .---,the electrolytic cen zone I working area per Article 6681

r-=-:--

ould carry enough crrrent

ervoltages. Ground-detection equipment is also available is listed by a nationally recognized electrical ting laboratory. It f~tl.lIes a sophisticated design
.-i

[ Second~r;-~~ut; of lgt~~~ ! systems per 411.5(A) I

r. ~ ..

!
i

=--='"~,~'"-~-~--~0=-~"

L-----,/

construction, including a sensing circuit, alarrn

cuit. and an jndicatior circuit, The indication cire rshown in Figure 2j 10) includes three indicator nps, an alarm light, and an alann bell. Remete anciarors are also avaIlable.

250.221 CIRCUITS

NOT

O QI; GROUNDED
Requirements: As ~llustrated in Figure 2-11, the
owing circuits are n,1 perrnitted to be grounded: Circuits for ele9tric cranes operating over combustible fibe.ls in Class lII locations, as provided in 503.155.

~)
-j
,-j

xussion: AccOrdingj to 500.5( D), Class III loca__ :tS

are those that are hazardous because of easily

-:::_tiblefibers or flyings bur in which such fibers or

.gs are not likely to lhe in suspension in the air in ..Lties sufficient roduce ignitible mixtures.
Hot particles drop ing from ground faults that -_{'it occur on cranes that operare over these easily

t01

FIGURE 2-11

Circuits not to be grounded, 250.22.

( Cengage Learning 2012)

70

UNlT2

Syst m Grounding

ignitible fibers 01' ftyipgs might be a source of ignition if the temperature of the particles s above the ignition temperature the fibers or flyings .. As a result, the circuits for these cranes are required to be ungrounded. The ungrounded circuit is safer, because the first ground fault will not produce an are or cause an overcurrfnt protecti~e device to o~erate. A ground detectr must be installed that gl ves an alarm and automatically de-energizes the contact conductors in case ofla fault to ground or gives a visual and audible alany so long as power is supp1ied to the contact conductor and the ground fault remains.

ff

This section no longer relates to a determina:' of whether interruption of power under fault c-:--_ tions can be tolerated regarding procednres bein; performed 011 patients. The administration 01' t~:: health care facility has the responsibility for determining the type of shock protection to be employ c., as well as for designating wet procedure locations.

More Requirements:
3. Circuits for equipment within the electrolyu: cell working zone as provded in Article 6t. are not permitted to be grounded.

More Requirements:
2. Crcuits in heJlth care facilities as provided in 517.61 and 517.160 are not perrnitted to be grounded.

Discussion: Article 668 applies to the nstallation the electrical componenrs and accessory equipmea
of electrolytic cells, electrolytic cell lines, and proc -. power supply for the production of aluminum, caomium, chlorine, copper, fluorine, hydrogen peroxide magnesium, sodium, sodium chlorate, and zinco Power to the eell lines is usually de and is TIl.' required to be grounded, Altemating-current systems supplying fixed and portable electrical equipment within the cell line working zone also are n required to be grounded.

Discussion: The circuits referred to here are from isolated (ungrounded) trlnsformers for equipment used in flammable inhalationl anesthetizing locations in health

care facilities. Most Health care facilities have stopped

using Ilammable in~alation anesthetics sueh as cyclopropane in favor pf more modern, nonflammable anesthetics, However, isolated (ungrounded) power systerns are sometimes used in surgeries or special I . procedure rooms that are defined as "wet procedure locations" by the he~th care facility administration. All receptacles and fixed equipment within the area of the wet procedure kf.ation are required oy 517.20(A) to be provided with pecial protection against electric shock by one of the ~'oUowing means: 1. "A power distribution system that inherently limits the possible ground-fault current due to a first fault to ~ low value, without interrupting the power supply."* This requirement equates to an ungrounded secondary type system. These systems are referred to as "isolated power system ." See 517.20(B) and 517.160. 2. "A power dif.tribution system in which the power supply lis interrupted if the ground-fault current does,

More Requirements:
4. Secondary circuits of Iiglning systems as provided in 411.5(.4) are not pennitted to bc grounded.

Discussion: Anicle 411 covers lighting systerns

that operate at 30 volts or less. A transformer reduces the source voltage, which is usually 120 volts: to 30 volts. These systems are not permitted to be grounded because the secondary conductors are permitted to be bare.

ilfore Requirements:
5. Secondary circuits of lighing systems as provided in 680.23(A)(2) are 110t permitted to De grounded.

ir

fact, exceed a value of 6 mA."*

Discussion: Transformers used for the supply of underwater luminaires, together with the transformer enclosure, are required to be listed by a qualified electrical testing laboratory as a_ swimming pool and spa transformer, The transformer is required to be an isolated winding type with an ungrounded secondary that has a grounded metal barrier between the primary and secondary windings.

Although this secti1,n does not specifically require a Class A ground-faltlt circuit interrupter for personnel protection, the operating characteristics are identical to those of the jGFCI.
*Reprinted with permission [raro NFPA 70-2011.

UNIT 2 System Grounding

~1 __

--,

Swimming pool and spa transfonners are covered under the product category in rhe Underwriters Laboratories White Book (Guide

wnov

lnjorrnation/or Elec~ri~f:q.UiPment)..

. .
--".,

The Guide Card mforuatlon reads 111 part, "Tlus category covers swmmng pool and spa transformers of the isolated two-windirg type having a grounded metal barrier between the Ifrimary and secondary windings, and intended to supply swimming pool, spa or submersible (fountain) l~aires in accordance with Article 680 ~f ANS~~[~l 70, National Ele~trical Code. The pnmary ranng 18 120 V and the maximum secondary ratings are 15 rms and 1 kV A. The transrormers are provided withlinte~ral ov~rload protection. "These products are provided with a power sup~ly cord or have provisiens for conduit connection :G lhe branch circuit supply. Transformers not proided wth a power supply cord are provided with .eads 01' with studs 01' terminal pads to which Listed ::-ressure wire connectors can be factory or field intalled to accommodate ,field wiring, Wire binding erews or studs with cupped washers should be used :-:n copper wire 10 AWO max. "'rransformers provlded with a power supply _nrd are intended for ~~pplYing low-voltage sub- rsible (fountain) luminaires as indicated by mark-6 on the transformer. ~hey are not intended for use '.:ti a swimming pool spa luminaires. "Unless marked otherwise, these transformers .: not suitable for connection to a conduit which ex-15 directly to a wet-nifhe or no-niche Iuminaire.?"

Grounding electrode conductor connectsd to grounded servlce conductor at service

FIGURE 2~12
systems,

Grounding service-supplied ac 250.24(A). (@ Cengage Learning 2012)

Discussion: This connection

is normally made to

0r

the bus for the neutral or grounded service conductor in the service equipment (see Figure 2-12). The phrase at each service is both narrow and broad in meaning. As can be seen in 230.71, the service disconnecting means can consist of a single enclosure or up to six enclosures grouped ai one location. Additionallocations permitted for the grounding electrode connection can be found in 250.24(A)( 1) and 250. 64(D).

250.24(A)(I) General

250.24 GROUNDING ERVICE-SUP LIED TERNATIN -CURRENT YSTEMS

--.c.24(A) System Grounding

The Requirement: The grounding electrode conductor connection is required to be made at any accessible point from the load end of the service drop or service lateral to and including lhe terminal 01' bus to which the grounded service conductor is connected at the service disconnecting means,

: onnectlons

Requirement: A pfemises wiring system sup-

Informatonal

-=.: by a grounded aJserVice is required to have ~ ;;ounding electrode onductor connected to the ~_!ded service cond ctor, at each service, in accance with 250.24(Ai(l) through (A)(5).
I

Note: See the definitions of Service Drop, Service Conductors, Underground and Service Lateral in Article 100.

Author's Note: Several changes were made to

the definitions of conductors related to services in A rticle 100 of the 2011 NEC. For example, if the underground supply conductors are installed

-.- ...:::edfrom the White B ,ok with permission from Underwrit- : ~:-.llOries lnc.,

COPYrigr 2010 Underwriters Laboratories

by the electric utility, they are defined as the service lateral-if the conductors are installed by the

.. 7.2

UNIT 2

Syst~m Grounding

)G~O~nded Srvlcec~~d~ct-;;0
~/

Connection to grounding

Load end of service drop

eisctrooe In wreway
<

\}

rfi

o o

o o o o o

J."
'E.'

i
ln enct servic; diSC:~nect~ mean~

L, sure for i

I'
ji
I1

II

I ''

1
~ ~ FIGURE 2-14

1 Grounding electrode

I
I

(system)

FIGURE 2-13

Gr9unding electrode conductor connection ~t accesstble location,

250. 24(A){1 ). (0 Cengage Leamng 2012)

Grounding electrode conductor connection in wireway, 250.24(A)(1).

(@Cengage Learning 2012)

they are derined as service conductorsunderground. The s~~ice drop is usually installed by the electric utilrty and connects to serviceentrance conductor,t at the building or structure. owner, Corr~spon?ing?chan ogy 111 Article _30. es were made to.the terminol-

Discussion: Note th t this rule refers to making the connection at any ac sessible point (see Figure 2-13). The term accessible is defined in Article 100 and
means, so far as equ pment

18 concerned, admiuing

3. At a wireway or auxiliary gutter on the line side of'the service equipment. SeeFgure2-14. This is perhaps the rnost desirable location when the service consists of more than one service disconnecting means, as permtted by 230.71, because a single connection can be made for all of the service disconnecting means rather than multiple connections, including tap connections, permitted in 250.64(D). 4, Within the service equipment enclosure. This location is almost universally accepted by the AHJ. It s illustrated in Figure 2-13. 250.24(A)(2)

close approach; not uarded by locked doors, elevation; or other effectt e means. * Locations for making the connection t the service grounded conducI

tor that are generall the following:

considered

accessible include

Outdoor Transtormer

1. At the weatherhead

for overhead services.

2. At the meter scket or current transformer enclosure. This ,ocation is sometimes not perrnitted by the jlectrical inspector, because the connection is ~rotected by the seal installed on

The Requirement: Where the transformer supplying the service s located outside the building, at least one additional grounding connection is required to be made from the grounded service conductor to

a grounding electrode, either at the transformer or

elsewhere outside the building.

th.. e metering. rclosure by the serving utility,

Check with th local ARJ.
"Reprinted with

P'nni"T

Excepticn: The additional grounding connection ts not permitted to be made on highimpedance grounded neutral systems. The
system is required to comply wth 250.36.

from NFP A 70-2011.

UNIT 2 SystemGrounding

41 __

73 ~

FIGURE 2-15 Gr unding connectlons outdoor transf, rrner, 250,24{A)(2), {@ Cengag

if

r~ming

i Groundlng etectrode

--_.~._-'7:l
i

2012~.

Ipojnt

I oonnsction

a tia

permlttd

I I

Diseussion: This, reqpirement ~nsures that the electrical system 18 ~I~unded tWIC~: at ~he source rransformer and agam at the service disconnectmg means (see Figur 2-15). Note that this rule ~a~s not apply to serring uti~~ies,as des,crib~d ~'1 902{B)( 5). Despire the utility exempnon m
lit. if'ities almo. 8t. alWYS. gw. und. ;.:.heir systems in comp iance with NEC rules but :or a different reason: .hey ground their electrical systems in compliance rvith the National Electrical 5afery Code ANSI C-2, [[hs standard is produced by me Institute of Electridtl and Electronic Engineers.

FIGURE 2-16 Groundin electrode connection for dual-fad servlcss, 250.24(A)(3), ( Cengage Learning 2012)

installed from grounded conductor terminal bar or bus to the equipment grounding terminal bar ar

me

9t. J.2.(B.)( )-), s.ervice..

bus in the service equipment,

trode conductor

me

grounding elec-

18 permtted to be connected to the

equipment grounding terminal, bar, or bus to which

the main bonding jumper is connected rather than to

the neutral bus. Discussion:

in Figure 2-17. Normally, and to comply with the rules 1S connected directly to the neutra! terminal bar in the service equipment. Electrical nspectors often inter-

150.24(A)(3) Dl1al-Fedl Servces

This requirement

is illustrated

The Requirement: FO~ services that are dual fed

double-ended) in a common enclosure or grouped

in 250.24(.4.)(1), the grounding electrode conductor

~gether in separate ene ~ - andary de, a single gro ID the te point of the each power source is p

osures and employing a secnding electrode connection rounded conductons) from mitted.

pret a connection of the grounding electrode conductor to other than the neutral terminal bar as creating a splice in the grounding electrode conductor, in violation of the rules in 250.64(C), Section 250.25(A)(4)

Discussion: This requirernent really amounts to an c!.,-ception to the gener IJ role, although it is stated ~arately. It simpy ] ermits a single grounding eI-e,ctrode connecton to the tie point for the douhle.!::.ded service, rather t an a double connection to equipment (see Fig e 2-16). :'50,14(A.)(4) Main Bo ding Jumper as Wre
r Busbar f:he Requirement: 'Wll re the main bonding jump-

permits

me

connection

of the grounding electrode

conductor to be made to the equprnent grounding bus for a special reason, Making the connection to the equiprnent grounding terminal bar rather than at the neutra} terminal bar allows a residual-type groundfault protection system to function. (A residual-type

;: specified in 250.28 is a wire or busbar and is

ground-fault protection system is sometimes referred to as a "ground-strap" type.) For the sake of smplicity, a residual-type equipment ground-fault protection system can be

74

UNIT 2 Syste

Groundlng

Uti!ity
transtormer

Informational Note: See 250.30 for separately derived systems, 250.32 for connections at separate buildings or structures, and 250.142 for use of the grounded-circuit conductor for grounding equipment. Discussion: This section provides some of the most basic and important requirements in Article 250. The grounded conductor is not generally permitted to be grounded again 01' to be used to ground or bond equipment beyond the pont of grounding at the service equiprnent. The Informational Note following this section gives an example of the three locations at which a grounding connection of the neutra! conductor downstream of the service is acceptable. In some of these locations, specific conditions must be met before regrounding of the neutral is acceptable. Those requirements are discussed later in those sections. Figure 2-18 shows the basic service disconnecting means where the neutral of a 120/240-volt,

Neutrai termina! enclosure

! Current

i bonding jumper of thE! wire ar i i buscar type used to measure I I ground-fault current i
GroJEding .:ectrOde connection
per is a wire ar busbar,
(@Cengage Learnng 2012)

transformer

qn msin

~GURE 2-17

if main bonding ju
250.24(A)(4).

considered

to operate by forcing all of the return

current from a gromi fault to flow through the main bonding jumpe . A current transformer is placed on the main boi ding jumper to measure the current flowing on it. A controller can be connected to set various pckup ~nd time-dela)' points or periOd8. At the predetermined amount of fault current, a signal is sent to open a shunt-trip circuit breaker OI; .contactor ~relay), rhich ?pens the faulted circuit. By making the rroundmg electrode connection on the load si de of the main bonding jumper, a single return path for ground-fault current is established. This singl~ path allows the residual or ground-strap type orl ground-fault equipment to work correctly. 250.24(_4)(5) Load-s+e Grounding Conneetons

I Feeder pane!bOa~c;J

/,!-~...;..y,........
t:;<;

The Requirements: I A grounded conductor

not permitted current-carrying metal parts of equipment or to equipment grounding conductor(s), or to be reconnected to ground ou the load side of the service disconnecting means, except as otherwise permitted in Article 250.

s to be Fonnected to normally non-

~-----~~---~---~/! L-J!{ . .. " .. I! ! .;.:'.'::;~':;.:lfrem enclosure I conouctor bondea to ~~~19 I enc!osure I

! Neutra! lsolated

Equpment groun~ing

FIGURE 2-18 Neutral isolated in panelboard, 250.24(A)(5). (@ Cengage Leaming 2012)

UNIT 2

System Grounding

j.1:i~~_

Load-stoe Gro Inding Connections

L0 !
i

rr 120 11

FIGURE 2-19 Load-slde grounding connections. 250.24(A)(5). ( Cengage Learning 2012)

FIGURE 2~20 Hazard of usinq neutra] to ground

equpment. ( Cengage Leamng 2012)

. I 18 . grounceo. , d A ree; c d 8erVICe er con. sisting of two ungrou~ded conductors, one neutral conductor, and one equipment grounding conductor supplies a distribution panelboard. At the dis::-ibulion panelboard shown in Figure 2-19), thc sonding jumpcr between the neutral bar anel the enclosure is not installed, Sometimes this is referred te in the electrical trade as "floating the neutral." The neutral conductOlj and terminal bar are electrically isolated from ttJ:e enclosure. Thc equipment ;rounding. conductor Iwi~hthe fe.eder is installed ~ da .eqU1pme~lt gro~ndmg t~n111nal bar tl:ar ~as ~.een installcd m electrical contact with tne e-iclosure. Connecting the neutral to a metallic enclosure cn the load side of th~ service or point of bonding -: r a separately derived system is the leading canse (1'( power quality problems. These improper conneczons allow neutral cU!'-Tent to flow on multiple un"'Hended paths, including conduit, EMT, and cable zrmor ar sheaths, as \'vell as over shields for data :;ocessing cabJes. I The neutral s permitted ar required to be :c~ounded. beyond tl1 service for sep~rate1y d~::\ed sysiems (see 250.30), under specific condi. ms for existing se arate buildings ar structures see 250.32(B )], and under specific conditions for ;:.)unding cquipment in 250.142.

-. . .-pnase, "' .s-wrre

gOOr

Isolating the neutral on the load side of thc service or point of grounding for a separately derived system prevents a shock hazard that could occur if t.he neutral were used to ground equipment improperly. Figure 2-20 illustrates how a ground fault "downstream" of the service could create a shock hazard if the equipment is grounded to the neutral. Actually, t\VO events must occur for the shock hazard to be present. The neutral connection to the panelboard must be loose somewhere 011 1tS line ar supply side. A Iine-to-neutral Ioad, such as a single incandescent lamp (or other load-connected line to neutral), will then energize the panelboard at a dangerous elevated voltage above ground. The same hazard would be present at any otherequipment with a line-to-neutral connection.

250.24(8)

Main Bonding ,Jumper

an 1..111spliced main bonding jumper is required to be used to connect the equipment grounding conductous) anel the service-disconnect enclosure to the grounded conductor within the enclosure for each service disconnect, in accordance with 250.28 .

The Requirement: For a grounded system,

Discussion: The main bonding jumper provides the

essential connection between the grounded system

.. _._26":

UNIT 2

systel[

Grounding

conductor (ofren a neut al) and the enclosure. Equipment grounding cond~ctors such as conduit, cable sheaths, and wire-type conductors are connected to the service metal eljlclosure sueh as the cabinet. The man bonding jumper connects the equipmenr grounding conductorsJto the system grounded conductor, which is often a neutral. Recall that for CUfrent to flow, a complete circuit must existo As can be seen in Figure 2-~l, the main bonding jumper provides the criticall~ important link to complete the circuit from the frult to the system grounded conductor, which in turn returns fault current back to thc utility transformer 01' other source of energy. Additional discussion on the rcquirements for main and system bonding jumpers takes place in 250.28 in this book.

Exceptionr Where more than one serVIC2 disconnecting means is located in an assembly lsted for use as service equipmer.; such as a switchboard, an unspliced mzir bonding jumper is only required to be located in one of the sections of the assemb.i enclosure. /-

Discussion: Switchboards are generally large pieceof equprnent that may be installed as the service .::... connecting means. Typically, this is floor-mountec equipment that consists of several sections that are bolted together on the job site before the service is energized. The sections are thereby connected together mechanically and electrically. In addition, an equipment grounding bus is installed in contact with each secrion. Because of electrical continuity of the equipment, a single main bonding jumper is permitted to be installed between the neutral bar anel the enclosure (see Figure 2-22). Usually, this rnain boncling jumper is furnished by the manufacturer and is the proper size for the ampere rating of the

_~
Service

I
Feeder panet Feeder

\.,
~.'.:

Mainl bonding jumper: .. ;.::::,::.J~::~:/i.~ co~nects grounded service conductor

--I
I

<"~:n::;1~;:~~~il;~;~i~::j ~~;~~~~~~~UiPment grounding

'-Z;.',:;~;~

co~~uctors t~ grounded conductor

I
i
!
I

I pr~Vldes iow-rnpecarce
L-

path for fault

= Ground-fault

r currert
I

cu~rent to return to source path

'

I Unspliced main bO:C;;~ I I jumper permitted n one !

l.~ec~2.I1 . FIGURE 2-22 Main bonding jumper for servicedisconnecting means in listed assembly, 250.24{B)F Exception No. 1. ( Cengage Learning 2012)

FIGURE 2-21 Main bonding jumper, 250.24(Bj. ( Cengage Learning 2012)

UNIT 2

System Grounding

77,.. ~_..,,

,.. ,

, nchboard. The main bonding jumper for switch_.oards usually c~nsi~ts ~f a ,b~sbar .~r copper con-=-_ tor. The bondmg jumper 15 identified as such by ce manufacturer.
250.24(C)

I Groundecl
I source L-

utility
_

I
!

Grounded Conductor

8rought to Servife Equipment lhe Requirement: lf ah ac system operating at

than 1000 volts is grounded at any point, the .,:-ounded conductons) is required to be routed with ungrounded conductors to each service disconzecring means and to bel connected to each discon-.,ecling means grounded conductors) terminal or as. A main bondlng jmhper is required to connect :2c grounded conductor( s) to each service disconnecting means enclosure. The grounded conductor(s) zaust be installed in acc6rdance with 250.24(C)(l)
35

i Grounded
I1

1I

conductor run to service and ! bonded to i enclosure ~

~""~

::::u-ough(C)(4).

Discussion: This Code section provides another critically important req rement in Article 250. If a
system supplying the se~rice is grounded, usually by the electric utility, the grounded system conductor usually a neutral) must Ibe run to each service disconnect and be .bond.ed each serv~ce ~isconnect:::g means, As discussed 1m 250.24(B j, this grounded '.':.-tem conductor provifes the critically important ~ th from a ground faul~ back to the source to com:;ete the circuito This complete circuit allows CUfrent to 110\\1 through the overcurrent device so :. will clear lhe faUltej circuit off the Iine. (See rrgures 2-23 to 2-25.) The requirement to route the grounded system ..:onductor with the phase (ungrounded) conductors ,s intended to keep all the circuit conductors in ~,ose proximity (see Fig res 2-23 through 2-25). As discussed earlier, keepi g all of the circuit conducrors together in an ac system is essential to maintain the impedance as low as possible. This is important :;,ecause the grounded system conductor serves the critical role of providing thc path for fault current to

[O

FIGURE 2-23

Grounded conductor to service equipment routed with phase conductors,

250. 24{C).
(()

Cengage Leamng 2012)

if

is not used beyond the service. This is often the case when a l-phase service disconnect and a 3-phase service disconnect are installed from a 3-phase, 4-wire system. Often, the l-phase service supplies lighting and receptacle loads, and the 3-phase service supplies motor and other 3-phase loads. The grounded conductor from the 3-phase service provides the lowimpedance path back to the source even if line-toneutral loads are not suppl ied by the service. Exception: Where more than one service msconnecting means are located in a single assembly listed for use as service equipment, it is permitted to run the grounded conductons) to the assembly common grounded condnctor(s) terminal or bus. The assembly must include a main bonding jumper for connecting the grounded conductor(s) to the assembly

re~urn t~ the sou~ce.

I ..

"

. .
lt 18 lfi-

Discussion: As illustrated m FIgure 2-26,

portant that the grounded service conductor be run to each s.ervice.enclosure attd be conn~cted t~ the. enclosure either directly ar thr ugh amam bonding jumper ;:,'en though the grounde conductor (often a neutral)

enclosure.

7.8

UNIT 2

Syste

Grounding

Grounded conductor ruo to each service disconnectng rneans and bonded to the enclosure

FIGURE 2-24

Grounded conductor brought to service equipment and bonded to enclosure,

250. 24(C}. (@)Cengage Leamng 2012)

Grounded service cpnductor to

e~ch service fisconnect

Grounded service conductor run to both 1- and 3-phase service dsconnsctnq means I and bonded to the enc!osure~

FIGURE 2-25 or more service-disconnecting means, 250.24{C).

(@Cengabe Learnmg 2012)

FIGURE 226 Grounded service conductor to 1-phase and 3-phase service-disconnecting rneans,

250. 24(C).

(@Cengage

Learning

2012)

UNIT 2

System Grounding

79

Main

Ij=l o I 1~81

a11 the service conductors are in a single raceway, The raceway might be conduit, E\<1T, or a wireway. Figure 2-26 is an example of this requirernent, where a sngle conduit supplies a single wireway. Another example 1S Figure 2-28, which shows an individual set of service-entrance conductors from a currcnt-transforrncr enclosure to individual service disconnecting means. For each of these and similar installations, use the size of the service conductor in the racewav., in the first or second column of Table 250.66, based on whether the service conductors are copper or aluminurn. The third or fourth colurnn is used to determine rhe minimum-size conductor permitted to be used for the grounded (neutral) service

conductor.
The rule would also apply to Type Me cables that are installed for service conductors. As shown in Figure 2-28, parallel underground service conductors supply a current transformer cabinet for utility metering. Individual sets of service-entrance conductors supply each service disconnecting means, The grounded conductor for the underground service conductor must be sized 00 lhe basis of the larger of the calculated load or from Table 250.66, using the size of the ungrounded ("hot") conductors in the raceway. Routing and sizing of grounding systern conductors for parallel serviee conductors that are installed in a single wireway are shown in Figure 2-29. Basically, three steps are required for properly sizing the grounded system conductor (often the neutrai). First, perform a load calculation in accordance with 220.61. This gives the minimum-size conductor required to carry the maximum unbalanced load from the ungrounded service conductor. Second, determine the size of the ungrounded service conductor and reter to Table 250.66. Note that even though lhe table title is Grounding Electrode Conductor for Altemating-Current Systems, the tablc is used for several othcr purposcs, and this is one of thcm. Third, install the largest conductor.

FIGURE 2-27

Grounded conductor to listed assernblv. 25r.24(C) Excepton. (@Cengag Leaming 2012)

:n.; LfISCUSSlOl1:

Thirs exception mrrrors 'E' ixception lVO. 1 .:: 250. 24(B) and recognizes that multisection _~',ithboardsor motor control ceniers used as serrce cquipment are boltcd togcthcr and are cquipped ith an .equpment gro~ndi~g bus that also connects _1C sections together (sTe Figure 2-27).
')\T'

I,

'

.utcxn Sizing fot a Single Raceway

rhe Requirements: The grounded conductor is re~Id to be not smaler rhan the required grounding __ ctrode conductor specified in Table 250.66 but is -: required to be largei than the largest ungrounded .~ ice-entrance conduftof(S).
re~uirements for sizing the in this section are intended ~. en,sore that it is l,":~le enough to carry fault cur::m back to the utilit transformer. The conducar size determined b reference to Table 250.66 erisfies this requiremnt, Even tbough the title of Table 250.66 is Grou(uling Electrode Conductor r r Altemastng-Current Systems, the table is used sizing many other conductors and this is one of :-:;::m.The reference int,the title of 250. 24(C)( 1) in..:~.:aresthese are Sizin requirements that apply if
~.sSiOll:

The

=::. unded conductor

Here 's How: For exarnple, if 350-kcmiJ ungrounded aluminum servire-lateral conductors are installed in each conduit, Table 250.66 requires a 2 AWG copper or 1/0 A WG aluminum grounded conductor. This becomes the minimum size required to carry fault current back to the source from the service equipment,

-.

-e-

80

UNIT 2

System Grounding

I calculated
'--~

f;ze eachrounoeo conductor not srnalle:'.tllai.'

load and not srnaller than speeified m
00

I Tebte 250.66 oased

r---\. \

siz:e of unqrounded conouctor.]

\
,-o ----~

,\

r==\\

\i

\ "-=~==::::.:;~

\ r-

Grounded conductor routed with phase conductors and not smaller than grounding electrode conductor

./ 11

.I J
//

--,......I--~
FIGURE 2-28

--

..-/

/f-~

/1/

~~'

Routing and sizing of grounded conductor for individual service disconnects, 250.24(C)(1). ( Cengage Learning 2012) =-~ -= =====~~=' ~ -=M-= =~"_HA~'

__

===--=

I Size ~u'-n-d-e-d-c-o-n-d-u-c-to--r-f-o-r-Ia-rg-e-s-t-o-f-c-a-IC-U-Ia-t-e-d-Io'ad ~r, !

l.i based on largest set of ungrounded conductors, trem i Tebte 250.66 or 12.5% rule for larger conductor sets. i I ~~\.\
\ \

!
i

~~~==~~~~~~~~~============~~~

1 n -ft.+- *'-j;
1:~ _.!I.
j

t,

F i::-

~I

...--J J ) ct;==~~y
FIGURE 2-29

i 'J
i

I
I

J j

I
j

ROU~ng and sizing of grounded conductor for paraltel servce conductors installed in a sngle wireway or auxiliarv qutter, 250.24{C)(1). ( Cengage Learning 2012)

UNIT 2

System Grounding

81

Compare. the size of con~lIctor required to carry the cnbalanced current from tpe load calculation in 220.61 ;ih the size of conductof from Table 250.66 and in~n t~e larger one. The rtrqurrement-s of 3J(.J.~O(H)?1l .astalling parallel condl)'tors mnst be comphed with "" we.Tne sma.ll. est con .uctor generally permitted to oe installed in parallel is 110 AWG. This rule has the effect of requiring the se e size copper or aluminum tre as used in our example, If 3/0 AWG copper conductors supply the ':JO-ampere service di~onnect from the current zansformer cabinet, Tab~e250.66 requires a 4 A WG ..upper or 2 AWG alumif' um grounded conductor. A -.' arger conductor may be equired as a result of a load .alculation. ~, For the 400-ampere Iserv~ce disc~nnet, seJect a ~"OA WG copper 01' 3/0 A \\t G aluminum grounded zonductor, based ou a 500-kcmil copper service-atrance conductor. Ag in, a larger conductor may te required as a result o a load calculation.

conductors in parallel is shown in Figure 2-29. Keep in mind this formula determines the minirnum-size conductor for carrying fault current back to the source and does not take neutral load into account. The fOl111Ula is applied as follows: Add together the circular mil area of one set the ungrounded service-entrance conductors. Multiply

of

this value by 0.125 (12Wlo).

This gives lhe minimum size of grounded (neutra1) conductor. If the calculation does not result in a standard conductor size or in a size less than 250 kcmil, refer to Table 8 of Chapter 9 and round up to the next standard size. For some standard combination of service conductors, refer to Table 2-1 for the minimum size pennitted for a single copper grounded (neutral) service conducror. This requirernent and discussion contemplates that all of the ungrounded conductors are to be installed in one raceway, such as a metal wireway 01' metal auxiliary gutter. One ungrounded or neutral conductor can then be nstalled to serve as the return fault-current conductor for a11 of the ungrounded service conductors, These larger installations utilize installing two or more conductors in parallel (electrically joined at each end to create a set of conductors that have adequate ampacity), Ir is common for design electrical engineers to specify that ali service-entrance conductors, inc1uding ungrounded and grounded (neutral), be the same size. Note the rulesin 3JO.1O(H) for installing conductors in parallel.

dare Requirements: addition, for sets of ungrounded serVice.-entra ce conductors larger than :OO-kcmil copper O[ 1750-kcmil aluminum, the grounded conductor mu t not be smaller than 12V2%
f me area of the largest lerVice-entrance
conductor.

lf

ungrounded

Discusson: This requir ment covers installarions in

aich the ungrounded service conductors are larger an specified in Tabl 250.66. Note that Table "'ZJ.66 covers ungroUj,ded service conductors up lIOO-kcml copper nd 1750-kcmil aluminum. - or installations with s rvice conductors larger than ....::is.lhe minimum size] of the grounded conduct. ar nsr be calculated uS1~ga simple formula. A typi, installation of a service with service-entrance

Note: App1ying an adjustment factor for more than three current-carrying conductors in the racewav

inimum Size of GrJu~d:d Service

Ampere Rating 1000
1200 1600 2000 " :...,il = 1000 em; em

Zo~~~~~r
Minimum Area of Grounded Conductor Minimum Size of Grounded Conductor
=:

Total Area of Ungrounded Conductors

(3)400 kcmil 1200 kcmit

3iO
4/0 250,000 em
300,000 em 250 kcmil 300 kcmil

(4) 350 kcmil = 1400 kcmil (5) 400 kcmil = 2000 kcrnil {6} 400 kcmil = 2400 kcmil

= cirduler

mil area,

82

UNIT 2

System Grounding

is not required in a metal wireway or auxiliary gutters in which the number oflconductors at, a cross seti~n does not exceed 30. 366.23(.ll) for metal auxiliary gutters and 376.22(~) for metal wireways. These sections act Iike exceptions to the rules in 310.15(B) I ' (3)(a) for adjustment factors when there are more than three current-carrying eonductors in a raceway. The rationale is that iflthe maximum conductor nu in the auxiliary wireway or wireway does not exceed 20%, the conductors can readily dissipate heat.

Seb

Discussion: This is the second method for insta .. ing conductors in parallel. [The first method is i.: 250.24( C)( 1).] Here, identical sets of conductors
in parallel in two or more conduits or cables. A11 the rules discussed previously for installing conductors in parallel apply. With this method, the set of ungrounded conductors counected in parallel is not normally larger than 1l00-kcmil copper or 1750-kcmil aluminum. Thus, Table 250.66 ean usually be used to determine the minimum size of grounded conductor for each raceway, as follows: Determine the maximum-size ungrounded ductor in the raceway ar cable. Refer to Table 250.66. conare installed

250.24(C)(2) ParaJlel tonductors in Two or

More Raceways service-entrance conductors are installed in parallel in two or more raceways, lhe grounded conductor is also required to be installed in parallel. The size of the
grounded eonductor in each raceway is required to be based on the total 0fcular mil area of the parallel ungrounded conduqtors in the raceway as indicated in (C)( l ), but not smaller than 1/0 AWG. See

The Requirement: If the ungrounded

Determine the rninirnum-size copper ar aluminum grounded conductor.

This grounded conductor cannot be smaller than

1/0 AWG to comply with the rules in 310.10(H) and

Figure 2-30.

must be installed in each raceway or cable,

I
I

i calcul:ated load and, based on slze of ungrounded

Size grounded conductor in each conduit or cab!e not smausr than conductors, not sm~Her than Table 250.66 and not smaller than 1iO AWG.

\0
I' t -F\

=====~~;;~i~~ii~~~

)) -:;/
FIGURE 2-30 Size of paralle! grounded service conductor in individual conduits, 250.24(C)(2). ( Cengage Learning 2012)

tt

UNIT 2

Svstem Groundnq

Often, electrical

design enzineers I~'

wiU require -

1:. full-size grounded (oJen a neut,raJ) .condu,ctor in eaeh raceway ar cable, comply, the installer must select a grounded conduftor(s) of appropriate size:

'Ir
I

As required for the load calculated by 220.61 As required for caJTying fault current as discussed previously -

As re"qlIired by tl,le ~rojet electrical engineer or designer ;5tU4(C)(3) Delta Con ected Service The grounded .::onductor of a 3-phasc, 3 \vire delta service is required 1 :0 have an ampacity nat Iess than the ungrounded cenductors.

Discussion: This requirement deals with a comergrounded sUPt::ly systen1 in vi'hich. lhe tra?sformers 2re connected 111 a delta Iconfigurauon, as illustrated 1]i Fizure 2-31, In a svstem connected in this manner, ,~' ',' -'" .oaos are typically conn .cted only 3 phase, such as
,

for motors, As a result, the current on each conductor is usually equal, So, the size of all conductors, including the grounded conductor, is required to be the same, These delta-connected systems often are not required to be grounded by 250.20(B) but are grounded by choice to avoid problema associated with ungrounded systems. Note that this rule clarifies that the grounded conductor of a 3-phase, 3-\vire, corner-grounded delta system is required to be directly connected to the neutral terminal bar of the enclosure, In the past, some have connected the grounded conductor to a circuit breaker or a fuse rather than to the neutra! terminal bar or enclosure. As previously mentioned, this corner-grounded system providos 3-phase power, typically for motor loads, but does not nave the disadvantages of transient overvoltages inherent in ungrounded systems,

One disadvantage of this system is a siugle ground fault on one of the ungrounded circuit conductors will cause an overcurrent device to open if enough
current flows in the circuit, These systems can best be understood if they are thought of as single-phase systems. The similarities are summarized in Table 2-2.

I Grounded

i 3-phase,
i

conductor of 3-wire deita service not srnaller than

,"

) _1

unqrounoeo connucrors ~ L---

250.24(0) Grounding Electrode Conductor

Breakers marked 10-30 (1 Ph-3Ph)

The Requirement: A grounding electrode conductor is required to be used to connect the equipment grounding conductors, the service-equipment enclosures, and, where the system is grounded, the grounded service conductor to the aroundinz ~ electrodets) required by Part 111 of Article 250. The groundng electrode conductor is required to be sized according to 250.66 and high-impedance systerns grounded according to 25036. See Figure 2-32.

Discussion:

\Ve reviewed the requirements

of

making the grounding electrode connection

in

FIGURE2-31

Ground d conduetor for 3-phase,

3-wre delte-connect d service, 250,24(C)(3),

(D Cengage Learning 2012)

250.21 and 250.21(/1)(1). The requirements for a grounding electrode system are described in 250.50 in this book; the grounding electrode, in 250.52; the methods of installing thc grounding electrodes, in 250.53; and installation rules for the grounding electrode conductors, in 250.64. In addition, the

84

UNIT 2

Syste

Comparison

ar ReqJirements

for

I-Phase and 3-Phase Systems

120/240 V, 1-0, 3-W 120/240 V, 3-0, 3-W
Yes Yes Yes Yes _

Section
N/A 200,6

Two ungrounded condu tors and one grounded eonduetor Colar cade af grounded Use of grounded Grounded ~.~d_u_ct_a_rS

Yes Yes __Y_e_s Yes

---------

condu9tor

200,7 230.41

systern conductor

perrnitted

tObebaretotheseNice Grounded svstem con~ctor requlred to be grounded at each l:1eNice

Grounded system conductor required

~-----~~~~~_ Yes
Yes Yes Yes 250.24(A)(1 ) 250. 24(C,!

to be connected to service equipment snctosure

0(\

Grounded conductor required to be insulated lhe load side of the syrviee diseonneeting mean

Yes
NA

Yes
Yes

31O,106(O}
240,85

Two-pole circuit breaker required to be rated

250.24(E) Ungrounded
Grounding
~!\,-.,J!!."-J!II!c,,.--Utility grounding electrode

System

Connections

servce equpment

The Requirements: A premises wiring system that is supplied by an alternating-currcnt service that is ungrounded is required to have, at each service, a
electrodc conductor connected to the electrode(s) required hy Par! !fI of Arlide 250. The grounding electrode conductor rnust be connected to a metal enclosure of the service congrounding grounding

ductors ar any accessible pont from the load end of

the service drop or service lateral to the service disconnecting means,
\'~

(!t;;;):K I eQupmen1

GmUnding+,ec,mde conductor connects t~~llnding conouctors, seP/lce-eq1.llpn!ent enctosures, and . i grounded srrvIce conductor to groundlllg ! e,ec,ro , d e (s . I

Discussion: The title of this section=-t'U ngrounded System Grounding Connection"-may appear selfcontradictory. How can an ungrounded system have grounding connections? The requirements for
grounding an ungrounded system result in a "case ground" or a "metal enclosure ground" connection to the grounding electrode system (see Figure 2-33). The source system is left ungrounded, The reasons for grounding the metal enclosures for the service equipment are covered in 250.4(B). The NEC is silent in this section on the minirnum sizing of the grounding electrode conductor to be used to connect the enclosurets) to the grounding electrodeis). In 250,66, however, the rules for sizing the grounding electrode conductor are the same for

FIGURE 2-32

Grounding electrode conductor connection to service, 250. 24(D),

( Cengabe Learning 2012)

ed systems are covered in 250.36 in this book and

the requirements for sizing grounding electrode

,~u=~

inslng hi:-reSist.nce

conductors in 250.66.

UNIT 2

System Grounding

85

Ungrou ded system

grounded and for ungrounded systems. This finding supports the stated rationale for installation of the grounding electrode and conductor-which is not to clear ground faults.

250.26 CONDUCTOR

TO BE GROUNDEDAL TERNATING-CURRENT SYSTEMS

The Requirement: For ac premises wiring systems,
the conductor to be grounded is as specified in the following:
~X .....:,:' ~ ! GrOundiryg
~~

electrode connscts

I
I

1. Single-phase,

2-wire--one

conductor

"

I grounding

servlce endosure(s) and equipment conductor(s) to earth.

I
!

Discussion: Either side of the system can be grounded. These commonly are 120-volt, single-phase sys-

tems (see Figure 2-34).

FIGURE 2-33

Ungrpunded

system grounding

conn~I_~'::~20~

More Requirements:
2. Single-phase, 3-wire-the neutral conductor

f1j
(1) t-phase, 2 wire-one

~---1-2~V-

rr=:tv
\. I

120V 120V

l
r
~o'reithe,one)

(2) t-phase, 3-wre-the neutral conduotor

(3) Multiphase systems with one wire common to ali pllases-the common wire

120V

(4) Multiphase systems with one grounded phase-i-tphase coneuctor in (2)-the

t -+

120V

(5) Multiphase systemsused as

neutra] conductor (@..:.enoaoe Leem;no 2012) .

.. __

FIGURE

2-fndu.eto<

to ~ grounded: aes~ste,:: 250.26.

&6

UNIT 2

syste1

Grounding

Discussion:

Thcse typically are 1201240-volt, l-phase, 3-wire syst~ms and are installed in dwellings and for insta~ations not requiring 3-phase motors or power,

LVIOl"e Requirements:
3. Multiphase

I
common r-""""~~

syste71s having onewire

I System
! jumper

bonding

II

to all Phases-thlcommon

conductor
voltages are

"

"..--,......., .... \.~~,."

<\

Dis~ussion: These sys ems are commonly 3-phase,

4-wlre, 600Y/346. wye-connecte.

208Y/120, 480YI277, and, in some industrial plants,

More Requirements:
4. Multiphase

grounded-l-ph

syst ms where se conductor

Common

one

phase

lS

Discussion: These sy

are 3-phase, 3-\'vlre, delta-connected in which one comer of the system is grounded. F~r obvious reasons, the systems are referred to as 'comer grounded."

r= typcally

& = Neutra! isolated

enciosure

trom

FIGURE 2-35

Main and system bonding jumpers,

2012)

250.28. (@ Cengage Leaming

More Requirements:
5. Multiphase syst9ms in which one phase used. as in (2)-the neutral conductor
18

Diseussion: These syJtems typically are 120/240volt, 3-phase, 4-wre. 1fhey are often installed when the higher phase-to-phase voltage of 240 volts is desired and 3-phase power is desired, often for motors. In addition, 120-volt power is available for lighting and receptacles. One ofthe three 240-vo1t transformers is center-point grau ded to create this system. The requirements in this NEC section ensure standardized system gr unding connections,

and system bonding jumper are in Article 1000fthe NEC. The main and systern bonding jumpers perform identical functions; they bond the grounded system conductor to the metal enclosure and serve as the fault-current return path. Thus, they serve a vital and importam function in the safety system.

250.28(A) Material of Main and System Bonding Jumpers The Requirements: Main bonding jumpers and system bonding jumpers are required to be of copper ar other corrosion-resistant material. .A main bonding jumper and a system bonding jumper can consist of a wire, bus, screw, or similar suitable conduetor.

250.2 MAIN BONOING .JU PER ANO SYST M 80 OING .JUMPER

The Requirement: For a grounded system, main bonding jumpers and [ystem bonding jumpers are
required to be installed as follows,

Discussion: Main bonding jumpers are typically furnished by the electrical equipment manufacturer for the listed equipment intendcd to be used as service equipment. The equipment is most often listed by an electrical products testing laboratory in compliance with a product safety standard, For the V.S. safety system, Underwriters Laboratories (UL) produces the safety standards for testing and manufacture of most electrical equipment.

Dlscussion: Main bonding jumpers are installed at

lhe service equipmenti and system bonding jumpers are installed at se~arately derived systerns (see Figure 2-35). The definition of main bondine iumper ~ I
~J

UNIT 2 SystemGrounding

87

=----_. __ ..
SUI'rABLE

883

Oi'!LY

FOR USE AS ml SERVICE EQUIP~ElT

9-99

.~

tr.:\

t.ocation

....

OEAO FRONT
SWITCH80ARD SECT10N ~
<

: UST!O
, ,.;l...

OF

No. O - 6.3 1 3 9 5

fiGURE 2-36 Main panding jumper in listed panelboard, 250.28(AJ. (Cengage Learning 2012)

FIGURE 2-37

='._--'--

"Suitable onlv for use as service equlpment" designation, 250.28. ( Cengage Learning 2012)

The panelboard Sh~wn in Figure 2-36 is furnished with a bonding jumper that 15 sized in com~iiance W~1 the produ~f satetv standard, It can t~en used without eXal1111jlatlOn to ensure proper size. See 90.7. A partial follows of equipment commonly used as service equipment and the product safety standards that apply:

listl

Panelboards Switchboards Power outlets Motor control Enclosed switches

UL67, Panelboards UL891, Dead-front Switchboards UL231, Power Outlets UL845, Electric Motor Control Centers UL98, Enclosed Switches

. ~arger equpme~t ~rO?ablY will have a bonding jumper that consists of one or more conductors or busbars. Smaller eq,tipment may have a bonding _umper consisting of a screw or strap. service equipment may _ marked "Suitable Only for Use as Service Equipment'vsee Figur 2-37). Such equipment has 'ie neutral terminal bar bonded to the enclosure at the - ctory. It is not suitabl for use at the feeder position ~ "downstream" from the service position. Locating - .c equipment where it would be supplied by a feeder ould general1y viola the requirement in 250.24(A) , that a grounding co nection is not permitted to be .ade to any grounded conductor on the load side of

the service disconnecting means. The UL White Book contains the following information at severaI locations where the phrase "Suitable Only for Use as Service Equipment" appears: "A section rnarked for use at services may also be used to provide the rnain controI and disconnecting means for a separately derived system." It should be noted that 250.30(A)(l) generally permits a system bonding jumper at only one 10cation or point, So, this equiprnent rnarked to indicate that the neutral is bonded to the enclosure would be considered to be the point where the systern bonding jumper is connected. Another connection of the neutral of the separately derived system on the supply side of the equipment marked to indicate that the neutral is bonded to the enclosure is not generally permitted.

250.28(8) Construction of Main and System Bonding Jumpers The Requirement: Where a main bonding jumper or
a systern bonding jumper is a screw only, the screw must be identified with a green finish that is required to be visible with the screw installed.

CAUTION: Some

Discussion: The main bonding jumper is permitted

to be a screw but must be identifiable after installaton (see Figure 2-38). This identification is intended to distinguish the bonding jumper screw from other mounting screws for the neutral terminal bar.

I
!
I
c

sizes shown in Table 250.66. If the supply conductors are larger than llOO-kcmil copper or 1750-kcmil aluminum, the bonding jumper is required to have an area that is not less than 12Yz% ofthe area of the largest phase conductor.

Discussion: As discussed previously, main and system bonding jumpers in listed equipment such as switchboards and panelboards can be used without the need to calculate the appropriate size. The manufacturer of the listed equipment is required to comply with the sizing rules in the appropriate product safety standard. The bonding jurnper can be used on the basis of the listing, as covered in 90.7 01' the

FIGURE2-38, Screw as rnain bo~ding jumper, 250.28(8). ( tengage t.eernmq 2012)

NEC.
Proceed as follows when it is necessary to determine or calculate the minimum size of the main 01' system bonding jurnper:

.--

~----

Electrical pro..duct sai!~ty standards dictate the size of screw required for v ious panelboards and similar equipment, The size c the screw can vary, depending OIl the ampere rating of the equipment such as a panelboard. Nothinz jll the NEC describes the minimum size of the bo-;~g screw. Again, the product safety standard dictatfs the appropriate size, which then can be used Withrut calculation.

250.28(C) Attachment of Main and System Bortdiriq Jumpers The Requirement: Mbn bonding jumpers and system bonding jumpers[ are required to be connected in the manner specified by the applicable provisions of250.8. Discussion: Although this section refers to 250.8 for the general rules for conn~cting the bonding jumper, the connectiOJ:l also !n~st be ~11adein cO~lplianc~ w~th lhe manufacturer s 111S .ucnons. These installation mstructions often dictate lhe location for installation of the bondingjumper, as well as providing a requirement that the fasteners be tightened to a specific torque.

Here's How: For ungrounded copper system conductors of 1100 kcmil or smaller or ungrounded aluminum system conductors of 1750 kcrnil or smaller, simply determine the largest circular mil area of the ungrounded conductors; then refer to Table 250.66 for the minirnum size of main or system bonding jumper. As discussed previously, Table 250.66 is used for severa] purposes other than that indicated by the title, which is selection of the grounding electrode conducror.
For example, consider an 800-ampere service or separately derived system that is being installed. Two sets of 500-kcmil Type XHHW conductors are installed in parallel. 500 kcmil X 2 = 1000 kcmil Table 250.66 requres a 2/0 A \VG copper main ar system bonding conductor. Here's How: For ungrounded copper system conductors larger than 1100 kcmil or aluminum system eonduetors larger than 1750 kcmil, proceed as fo11ows: 1. Determine the total circular largest set of conductors. mil area of the

250.28(0) SizJ of Main and System B-~nding Jurnpers

250.28(D)( 1)

2. Multiply this total by 12V2% (0.125).

General

3. Refer to Table 8 of Chapter 9 if the result is

less than 250 kcrnil. 4. Round up to the next standard size if necessary.

The Requirement: Main bonding jumpers and system bonding jumpersl must not be smaller than the

UNIT 2 System Grounding

._B9__

For example,

.::::!>.talled. Four
Z; stalled 10

350-kcFlil

a 1200-ampere. service is being copper conductors are

parallel

conductors. 4
X

~rr

the ungrounded

system

350 kCI~'l = 1400 kemil O = 1,400.000 em 0.125 = 175,OOOcm

X

1400 kcmil X 1 1,400,000cm

sized in accordance with 250.28(D)(I), based on the largest ungrounded feeder conductor serving that enclosure, or a single systern bonding jumper must be installed at the source and sized in accordance with 250.28(D)(1), based on the equivalent size of the largest supp1y conductor, determined by the largest sum of the areas of the corresponding conductors of each set.

The ~ext larger staltard size a~er ] 75,000 cn: is -=. O.AW~ (211,60? cmr Ta~le 8, C!:apt~r 9), which ziust be installed if th main bonding jumper sup:':ied. bY. the .m .. anufactrer =ent is not installed. of listed service equip-

Discussion: This requirement was added during the processing of the 2008 NEC anel adds clarity for installations of separately derived systems consisting of more than a single disconnecting means enclosure, The system bonding jumper is generally permitted to be installed at any single point from the source of the separately derived system to the first system disconnecting means. See 250.30(/1)(1). The system bonding jumper is required to be at the source if it is located outdoors. If multiple disconnecting means are installed from a separately derived system, the system bonding jumper must be installed at either the source (a single point) or at the individual enclosures (a single point in each). The "single point rule" in 250.30(A)(1) would not permit the system bondng jumper to be installed at the source for supply to one disconnecting means and at the disconnecting means for another feeder. If a system bondingjumper is to be installed in each disconnecting means enclosure, the size of the derived conductor that is connected to the system disconnecting means terminals s used to determine the minimum size of the system bonding jumper for each enclosure. This was reviewed in the discussion on 250.28(D)(l ), General. Once again, if the disconnecting rneans being nstalled is 11stOO as service equipment (though in this instance it is being used as a feeder panelboard and not as a service disconnecting means), the manufacturer will fumish the proper size of system bonding jumper. The IJL Guide Information for Electrical Equipment (White Book) states under Panelboards (QEUY), "Panelboards marked for use at services mav also be used to provi de the main control and means "of cutoff for a separately derived system." If the system bonding jumper is installed at the source of the separateJy derived system, it must be sized for the total circular mil area of the derived conductors, Here's How: As shown in Figure 2-39, a separately derived system supplies two feeders. One

.:'50.28(D)(2) Main Bo ding

mper for Service wl'th More Than ne Enelosure The Requirement: If a service consists of more than
as /permtted in 230.71 (A.), the main b?ndl~g jumper ~or ea~h enclosure is required ::"1 be sized 111 accordance with 250.28(D)(l), based n d1C largest ungrounded service conductor serving :: single enclosure "" enc~oSllre. .

..1

ThlS requ1fement was added during the crccessing of the 2008 NEC and adds clarity for installations of services qonsisting of more than a singJe service disconnecting means enclosure. Section .: ?0.71(A) perrnits up to six separate enclosures to be ased for the service dis onnecting means. The rule for sizing the main bonding jumper for
Dl-SCUSI:.~Wll:

e~~h indivi~ual en~losfre is dentic~ to the rule for

zmg amam bonding jumper for a smgle enclosure. The size of the service-entrance conductor that is connected to the supplY equipment terminais is used to determine the minimum size of the main bondinzt . umper for eaeh enclosure. This was reviewed in the

~i~cusson.on 250',28(I!I)O/, ?eneral. 0. nce aga1:, if

_,~,ed service equipment 18 m.stalled, the manufacturer will furnish the proper size of main bonding .umper. It can be installed without calculation as to :;:5 proper size. :50.28(D)(3) Separatrly

Derived System with vlore Tban One Enc~osure

The Requirement: Ifla separately derived system ~uppl,ies ~ore than a Isngle enclosure, the systern oonding jumper for eabh enclosure is required to be

90

UNIT2 Svsterr Groundin

(2) 350 kcml conductors

to 600-A overcurrent

3/0 AWG systern bondng jumper

IA. :::: Neutra! solated trem

enclosure

Separatelv

derived svstern with more than one enclosure, (@ Cengage Leeminq 2012)

250.28{D}(3),

feeder is to a 400-amp ere panelboard, and lhe de1 l~ived c~nductors are 6qO-kcmil coppeL The second feeder 15 to a 600-ampbI'e panelboard, anel the supply conductors are 350 kcmil copper conductors 'n na rallel ,.\ &,.;,.,1.1" bondinz iumper v " l' 'U'5-''- svstem J l',-] t Ir '

twJ

The next standard size 01' conductor from Table 8 of Chapter 9 s 3/0 A\\'G with a circular mil arca of 167.800, which must be installed,

L .

<t

[,-

f'-\,

.:H1'

10

"

~.

is to b~ installed f:<omla bondin~ termil~al b~r installed m the transformei to the XO terminal m the transformer , The sizing of the I system bonding conductor must comply with 25&,28(D)(1). That section requires the .system bonping jumper be Boi smaller th<~~l ,d grounding. elec:lfode condu::tor from Table 2J/J.6, based ou the size of Lhe derived conductors, lf the derived conductors are larger than 11O-kcmil copper, the system bOn~'ng jurnper is not perrnitted to be sI,naller than12l,/ X, of the cir~ular mil area of the derived conductors I The foHoWHH!:table shows ., how to calculare the system bonding jumper 101' the installation shown in Filgure 2-39.
,c . .. ~' ... 1-'

250.30 GROUNDING SEPARATELY DERIVED ALTERNATING-CURRENT SYSTEMS

The Requirements: In addition to complying with 25030(A) for grounded systems or as providcd in 250.30(B) for ungrounded systems, separately derived systems 5ha11 comply with 250.20, 250.21, 250.22 and 250,26.

Discussion: This s a new introductory

' ~

paragraph for 250.30, It requires separately derived system to cornply with the mies that apply as follows: 250,20 gives the rules ou those systems that are required to be grounded
li

250,21 states the systerns that are permitted but not required to be grounded that are not permitted to be grounded

., 250.22 provides a ust of the circuits or systems

250,26 provides rules on which conductor 1S required to be grounded for those systems where grounding is required 01' performed if system grounding is optional.

UNIT 2 System Grounding

91

250.30( A) contains ~e rules for grounding and bonding separately deri ved systems that are grounded 250.30(B) provides the requirernents for ground-

separately derived, as a path from the grounded conductor of one system to the grounded conductor of the other system is commonplace. See Figure 1-19 for a graphic representation of the definition of separately derived systems. A separately derived system can be recognized by determining how the grounded (often a neutral) conductor is treated. The phrase "no drect connection from circuit conductors of one system to circuit conductors of another systern, other than connections through the earth, metal enclosures, metallic raceways, or equipment groundng conductors" is the key. To qualify as a separately derived system, the system rnust meet the following tests:

ing equipment relardd to ungrounded separately

derived systems,
--.':0 I

lnformational Notes provide zrion:

helpful

infor-

Informational Note No. 1: An alternare ar power source sU9h as an on-site generaror is not a separately derived system if the grounded conductor solidly interconnec. .ted to a service-supplie~-system grounded CODductor. An example o~'such situations is where alternare source transfer equipment does nor include a switching action in the grounded conductor and all0'fs it to remain solidly connected to the service-supplied grounded conductor when the .ptemate source is opera-

1s

1. The systern is a premises wiring system (see the definition of this terrn in Article 100).
2. The power is derived from a source of electric energy 01' equipment other than a service, 3. No direct connection from circuit conductors of one system to circuit conductors of another system exists, other than connectons through the earth, metal enclosures, metallic raceways, or equipment grounding conductors. Sources of electrical energy include a battery, a solar photovoltaic system, and a fuel cell, These sources of energy produce de, which has to be converted to ac through an inverter. Generators are most commonly of the ac type, which are used to supply power into the electrical system. Separately derived systems also can be supplied from transformer or converter windiugs. In the strictest sense, a transformer is not a source of electric energy. Transformers simply modify the source voltage either higher or lower, depending on the ratio between the number of turns in the primary and the secondary windings. However, the NEC has long recognized transformers as separately derived systems, depending on how they are connected. A fairly simple test can determine whether a transformar 01' a generator is a separately derived system.

tional and SUPPlYing~theload served.

Infor~~tiona]

~ot .No. 2: See 445.13 for the rmrnmum size f conductors that must carry fault current. Discussion: As mentioned in the Introduction chap2T in this book, the term separately derived system _ defined in NEC Arti1cl e 100 as "A premises wir~g syst:-mwhose pow .r is derived from a sOl:rce ,::electric energy or eql~lpment other than a service. Such systems have no dl" ect connection from circuit conductors of one syst m to circut conductors of saother system, other t an connections through the earth, metal enclosures, tnetallic raceways, or equipment grounding conduc~ors."* The second sentence of the definition is a significant revision from that in earlier editions of the NEC. As shown in Figure 1-191 a circuit is established from ilie system supplied by the utility to the separately ,:krived system through equipment grounding COl11liCtorS and through the earth. These paths connect ~~egrounded conductors of the two systems together. -ne ungrounded conduc ors, referred to in the definidou as circuit conductors, are not interconnected. In reality, based oq the previous definition of separately derived syste ,a1ilOSt no systerns were
Reprintedwith perrnission fr m NFPA 70-2011.

Here's How: For transformers, check to be sure

there is not a bonding jumper from primary to secondary. The primary may be of any voltage, and the secondary of any voltage. For the transformer in

92._~"

UNIT 2

systel

Grounding

~,~---,
) Supp!y-side II bonding [umpar ,

I
i

Equipment groun ing conductor

! I

I
I I

No d~~ct conne~tio from circuit conductors of one S, stem to circuit conductors of another system other than connections througH the earth, metal I enclosures, metallic raceways. ar equipment grounding conductors.

.& = Neutral
=

solated from enclosure

FIGURE 2-40

Transformer-type

separately derived system, 250.30.

(@ Cengage Leaming 2012)

Figure 2-40, assume e supply voltage is 480 volts and the secondary voltage is 208Y/120. So long as a bonding jumper is not installed from primary to secondary, the system is reparately derived. Connection of the equipment grornding conductor to the transformer enclosure on t$Primary a.nd the installation of the system bonding ju per and the supply-side bonding jumper on the sec ndary are permitted within the deflnition. These connections do not constitute a direct connection [rom ircuit conductors of one system to circuit conductors / another system as included in the definition of the separately derived system.
I

Here's How: Fon generators, the key to determining whcther the system is separately derived is

Separately derived systems are required to be grounded and bonded in accordance with 250.30 if the system produced is required to be grounded in 250.20. Systerns, such as from transformers ar generators, that are not separately derived are required to comply with other sections of Article 250. See 250.35 for specific rules that apply to generators that are pennanently installed. Other systems are grounded and bonded as any other electrical equipment. The electrical system is grounded by the electric utility and again at the service, Equipment grounding and bonding conductors are installed to provi de a ground- fault return path back to the source, which is the utility transformer, The neutral 01' grounded

to look at the tranSfe~ switch to see how the neutral

or grounded conductfr is ~andl~d. If the grounded conductor (often a ne~tral) is switched, the system 1S separately derived (see Figure 2-41). Ifthe grounded conductor (often a ne tral) is not switched, the system is not separately perived.

conductor 18generally requred to be electrcally isolated from electrical enclosures throughout the system beyond the service. Autotransformers by their very nature are not separately derived systems, because one conduetor is common to both primary and secondary

UNIT 2

System Grounding

93

.~

Electrical system

Transfer swttcn

Electrcal system

r----t"i+H'-..., \"
j

\"

!J / i--,

I
I

I conductors

I &. == Neutral solated from

L

Transter swtoh breaks ali crcut of the systems, ncluding the grounded conductor, so the system produced by the generator is separately derived.

I i I
1

enclosure (Wrng methods not shown)

FIGURE 2~1fner.to~pe

separatelv de~v~ ac systems, 250.30, I

can":':.e Leeminq 2~

windings. See Pigure 2-42. Autotransformers are available in many sizes and configurarions. They are often referred tol as "buck/boost" transformers. ~ften, ,the s~me trapstt;rmer can be connected to either "buck" or "bost" the voltage. If connected in the "buc~" orientrtion, the. voltage is reduced. If connected 111 the "boost' onentation, the voltage is increased. If the 1utotransformer has a grounded conduc~Ol:, it must geyle common conductor. As a result, ir lS not permitted to ground the grounded concluctor at ar b~vond the autotransformer if the autotransformer has a common grounded conductor. NEC 250.30 requires that the system produced by a separately depved system be considered in lig~t of the require.,ents for ~rounding in 250.20(A) ana (B). lf the separately derived system meets the voltage, phase, or u' age rules in 250.20(A) or (B), it

must be grounded. If the system does 110t meet those rules, grounding of the system generally is optional. Recall that there are a few circuits that are not permitted to be grounded, as provided in 250.22. For separately derived systems that are required to be grounded, grounding is accomplished in accordance with the rules in 250.30{A).

250.30(A)

Grounded Systems

The Requirements: A separately derived ac system that is grounded is required to comply with (A)( 1) through (A)(8). Except as otherwise permitted in Article 250, a grounded conductor is not permitted to be connected to normally non-current-carrying metal parts of equipment, to equipment grounding conductors or be reconnected to ground on the load side of the system bonding jumper.

UNIT 2 SysteJ Grounding

i
II
Primary

_~\-

~~

I permitted

I System
i

'\,...---.//------,

1
Secondary

bonding jumper at any single point from source to first disconnecting rneans

I!

I
FIGURE 2-43

fiGURE 2-42 Autot ansformer has a conductor common to pri1mary a~d se~ondary. (@ Cenga ' e Leammg 20 2) 250.30(A)(1j. System bonding jumper, (@CengageLearning2012)

Discussion: T~is rule lmirrors the requi~e~ent ~at

the neutral not be regrlunded on the load side ot the service disconnecting means in 250.24(A)(5). The grounded. conductor ~s permitted to be grounded again under specific [conditions n 250.30(A)(1), Exception No. 2, and f r existing buildings ar structures that were wired in that manner when previo~s editions of the lVfC per~tted doing .so. See 2)0.32(B)(1j, Exception. It lS also permitted to use the grounded conductor for grounding certain installed at the grounding electrode compliance with 25030(C). connection in

Discussion: The syslem bonding jumper in a separately derived system performs a function identical to that of the main bonding jumper in a service. It provides the essential link between the equipment groundng conductorts) ar the metal enclosures for equipment to the source of the separately derived system. These metal enclosures include the transformer and cabinets for panelboards. Without the system bonding jumper, no path exists for groundfault eurrent to return to the source. As a result, overcurrent devices will not operare to clear line-toenclosure faults. (See Figure 2-43.) The system bonding jumper is required to be composed of and sized in an identical manner as the main bonding jumper for the service equipment. As can be seen, all the rules in 250.28 ror the main bonding jumper apply to the systern bonding jumper for separately derived systems (Figure 2-44). The size of the derived conductors is used in T'able 250.66 to determine the minimum size of the system bondingjumper. As discussed in 250.28, a main bondng jumper furnished as a part of listed service

equipment under spe ific conditions provided in

250.142. 250.30(A)(I)

System

onding Jumper

The Requirements: An unspliced system bonding jumper 8ha11 comply with 250.28(A) through (D). This connection must be made at any single point on the separately. derived I~ystem from the source to the first system disconnecting means 01' overcurrent devic~, or it must be ma1e at th~ source o~a separately derived system that no disconnecring means or ov~rcurrent devices, i accor~an~e with .z50.3~(A) (1)(a) or (b). The syst 1m bonding jumper 15 required to remain within the enclosure where it originates. If the source 1S located outside the building or structure supplied, a system bonding jumper is required to be

hiS

or

UNIT 2 System Groundinq

95

services. For larger separately derived systems, two transformers from different separately derived systems may be tied together on the secondary to provide extra capacity or system operational redundancy. A singie systern bemding jumper that s instaiied at the tie point is permitted in this case. As can be seen in Figure 2-45, the two separately derived systems that have a common neutra] COI1nection no longer meet the definition of separately derived systems in NEC Article 100, as the neutral conductor is a circuii conductor. When the two previously separately derived systems cease to meet the definition, in reality the rules in 250.30(A) no longer apply. Were it not for this exception, the other pertinent rules in Article 250 would be applicahle. Exception No. 2: A system bonding jumper at both the source and the first disconnecting means is permitted where installing them does not establish a parallel path for lhe grounded conductor. If a grounded conductor is used in this manner, it must not be smaller than the size specified for the system bonding jumper in 250.28 but s not required to be larger than the ungrounded conductor(s). For the purposes of this exception, connection through lhe earth is not considered as providing a parallel path . Figure 2-46 shows a system bonding jumper installed at the source and the first system disconnecting means. allows the grounded conductor from the separately derived system to be used to bond the enclosure for the first overcurrent device ar disconnecting means to the enclosure for the separately derived system, provided that installing a bondingjumper at both locations does not result in providing a parallel path for current to f10W. Ifthe grounded system conductor (often a neutral) is used as the bonding conductor between the enclosures, ir must be sized not smaller than a supply-side bonding jumper. As such, the grounded conductor is serving several roles, including providing the path for unbalanced current to return to the source, , bondinzo the enclosures together, and providing the retum path for ground-fault currents. Sizing the bonding conductor requires going to 250.102(C), which sends the installer to Table 250.66 for ungrounded conductors

FIGURE 2~44 Size Ofr system bonding jumper, 250.30(A)(1). ( engage Leaming 2012)

equipment also can be ised without calculation as me systen: bo~ding jurper for separat~ly ~erivcd ~ys:ems: lf a \Vire,or bUFbar system bondmg jumper .- field-installed 1ll a transformer or generator, the appropriate size must b determined by the methods discussed in 250.28(D) in this book. Th~ general rule is .trat a systen:l bonding jumper :" required and permitted to be installed at only _ae location for the separately deri ved system (see ?:gures 2-40, 2-41, 2-43, and 2-44). This embod;:5 the concept of sng1e-pont grounding. A single point is estab.lished forlthe grounding electrode and system bonding cond~ctor connection. As will be <een later, the single connection point can be 10cated at one of sever~ locations. This single point ;'01 grounding and bondinz connection reduces the ~kelihood ~f par~llel prthS~for neutral

Discussion: This exception

""?"

Exeepton

No. 1: For systerns installed in accordance with 450.6, a single system bonding jumper cdnnecton to the tie point of the grounded circuit conductors from each power source is permitted.

Discussion: Thisexcpption

is identical in scope znd function to the e cception in 250.24(A)( 3) for

UNIT 2

Syste~ Grounding

ytiiity source
Srrvice equipment .--t:;t....lHH~..",.",

Utility source

Feeder

Wirng method not shown.

System bondng jumper connection parmitted at tia point for systems installed in accordance with NEC 450.6

FIGURE 2-45

-,~-

Systr.m bonding jumper at tie point of separately derved system installed in accordance wth 450.6. 250.30(A)(1), Exception No. 1. { Cengage Learnng 2012}

I I System
~ .. ~v,
~~.

bondlng jumper at

r-"'.....,---~~"'~ ..I ) b?th sourc~ and frst ~ystem dlsconnectmg means If ... i
r----

~-~Nonmetal!i0
wirlnq method

li
I1

\,

within the scope of the table. For larger installations that do not fit in Table 250.66, a calculaton using the 12Yi% rule must be used. This procedure is explained in detail in 250.28( D) of this book. As discussed earlier, when a parallel path exists, current will divide among all the paths that are available. There is no sound engineering principle for allowing neutral current to flow on other than the grounded-circuit conductor for separately derived systems. If the grounded conductor is installed improperly, a parallel path for neutral current can be established by one of the following rnethods: 1.

FIGURE 2-46 System bonding jumper at both source and first sy~tem-disconnecting means, 250.30{A)(/1), Exception No. 2. ( Ceng ge Larning 2012)

Using metal wiring methods between the enclosure for the separately derived systern and the disconnecting means

2. Mounting the metal enclosure for the separately derived system and the disconnecting

UNIT 2 SystemGrounding

97

means on cornrno conductive materiais such as steel columns a!ncl conduit or pipe racks

250.30(A)(I)(a) System Bonding Jumper

Installed at the Source The Requirement: The system bonding jumper is

required to connect the grounded conductor to lhe supply-side bonding jumper anel the normaUy noncurrent-carrying metal enclosure.

3. Using metal pipipg systems or metal structural members for the groundng electrode for the separately de~ived system and equipment
groundng conductors that subsequently contact with the founded surfaces have

Discussion: The system bonding jumper

Many other possible interconnections exist in industrial and commercial facilities. Granted, a parallel ~ath for neutral current exists at the service, dependi 19 on how the equipment is installed and what the .ring method is. This is discussed Iater, in 250.1012 in this book. However, the reason for perrnitting the parallel path at the service does not exist at a separately derived system. It appears a confticlt was introduced in processing the 2011 NEC that affects this exception. A new rule in 250.30(.4)(2) r9quires a supply-side bonding jumper to be installed if the source and the first disconnecting means arei installed in separate enclosures, So, when the supply-side bonding jumper is installed to comply the new rule, the exception to 250.30(A)( 1) can no longer be used because bonding the neutral at each ~nd of the C.irCuit would create a paralle1 path with the supply-side bonding jumper. It 1S unknown at the time of this writing if changes w111be made to coordinate tbese rules before the processing of[the 2014 NEC. For additional information, you can check at www .nfpa.org or

is permitted to be installed at any single point from the source to the first system disconnecting means. As indicated in this section, if the system bonding jumper is installed at the source, usually at the transformer or generator, it serves to connect the grounded conductor (rnost often a neutral) to the supply-side bonding jumper and the normal1y noncurrent-carrying metal enclosure. The ground-fault current return path with the supply-side bonding jurnper located at the source is shown in the upper drawing in Figure 2-47. 250.30(A)(1)(b) System Bonding Jumper

Installed at the First Disconnecting Means The Requirement: The system bonding jumper is required to connect the grounded conductor to the supply-side bonding jumper, the disconnect- ing means enclosure, and the equipment grounding conductor( s). Discussion: As indicaied in this section, if the system bonding jumper is installed at the first disconnecting means, usually at the panelboard or fusible switch, it serves to connect the grounded conductor (most often a neutral) to the supply-side bonding jumper, the disconnecting means enclosure, and the equipment grounding conductons). The ground-fault current return path with the supply-side bonding jumper located at the first disconnecting means is shown in the lower drawing of Figure 2-47. As can be seen, the ground-fault current return path to the source is now using the groundecl conductor. This requires the neutral conductor to be sized not smaller than a supply-side bonding jumper or system bonding jumper. This subject is discussed in greater detail in 250.30(/1)(3 )in this texto 2S0.30(A)(2) Supply-Side Bonding Jumper

With

www.necplus.org.
Exception No. The size of the system bonding jumper 1'<1>f a system that supplies a Class 1, Class 2. 01' Class 3 circuit, and is derived from a tr nsformer rated not more than 1000 volt-amperes, must no! be smaller than the deri ved phase conductors anel not be smaller than 14 AI \VG copper or 12 AWG aluminum.

3i

Discussion: These sniall transformers are often used

for control circuits or Isystems. The enclosure for the transformer is permitted to be used as the grounding electrode for the syst~m. If the system 18 required to be grounded by 250.2&, a bondingjumper is perrnitted to be installed from ti e sccondary of the transforrner to the enclosure. This bondng jurnper also serves as the grounding electro e for the system.

The Requirement: "If the source of a separately derived systern and the first disconnecting means are located in separate enclosures, a supply-side

98

UNIT2. System Grounding

I
svstem bonding jurnper a source connects
qrounded conductor to s~pply-side bondinq jumper

and normaUy non-current-carryln

.....---"\

..... ~\\~r\ \1'\

r''-

L
\

metal enclosure .

1
= =

A ~ __ /L/
I

-.
I,

Suppty-side .bonding jumper requtred between source and first dsconnectinq means enclosure if components of

I
s

I are ir. separata

\

separatey cerveo system

enclosures

'. \ ~

.,. =
Size supply-sida banding

p
,

lrr

jumper of wire type from 250. 102(C). Size supply-side bondinq

,js~~_:::iJ

.~.j . .~~.~.v
Ii
L-'

jumper ot bus type not smaller

than cross-sectional wire type. area of

;'l
_-----,

-----I

System bondihg jumper at first dlsconnectlnq

means connects grounded conductor to:

1. suppiy-sidd bonding jumper

2. disconnect\og rneans enclosurs

3. equpment grounding conductorts)

-..........,...._ ....... -...._--(@Cengage

FIGURE 2-48 Requirements for supp/y-side bonding iurnper, 250.30{A}(2).

Lesrninq 2012)

_. """'''''---

_ _-

r-

FIGURE 2-47 Connection of system bonding jumper at source and first disconnecting rnaans with ground-fauft return paths, 250.30(A}{1)(a) and (b). (@C ngage Learnng 2D12)

"b. A supply-side bonding jumper of the bus type is required to have a cross-sectional area not smaller than a supply-side bonding jumper of the wire type as deterrnined in 250.102(C),"

Discussion: As illustrated in Figure 2-48, a supplyside bonding jumper is required from the source of the separately derived systern to the metal enclosure for the disconnecting means if the components are in separate enc1osures. This is necessary whether the systern bonding jumper is located at the source ar at the first disconnectinz means. An effective groundfault return path must be provded from the enclosure for lhe source of the separately derived system to thc first disconnecting means, to comply with the rules in 250.4(A)(5) and 250.4(B)(4). This return path is necessary to enable enough current to return to the source to clear a ground fault regardless of where it occurs. As can be seen, sizing of the bonding jumper, if of the wire type, is determined by reference to

bonding jumper is required to be installed with the circuit conductor from the source enclosure to the fi~st disc~nnefting ~ea?s. A supply-side bonding jumper 18 not requireo to be larger than the derived ungrounfed conductors. The supplyside bonding jumper ~s permitted be o~ the nonflexible metal raceway type ar ot the wire or bus type as follows:

:0

"a. A supply-side

ponding jumper of the wire type is require~.to cornply with 250.102(C),

based on the size of the derived unzrounded I ~ conductors.

UNIT 2

System Grounding

.99

25(U02(C). The title f that secton indicates that the rules apply to the dize of the supply-side bonding jumper. Because of similarities between wiring on the supply side of t~e service and the conductors between the source of nbe separately derived system anel t.he over~UITent prqtection, the sarr:-~rules apply. The reason is conductors from the utility source to the service do not have overcurrent protection. Overload protection only ( ot overcurrent protection) is provided by conncctifg. the co~ductors to o~e or more overcurrent protectrvc devices at the load end of the service conductors, Similarly, overcurrent protection of conductors from the source of the separately derived systeni is provded at their load end but not at their tine end. In keeping with similar rules for sizing the service grounded or neutra! conductor as well as the main and sys~em bonding conductors, the :upply-side bondingl j~mper frorn the el:clos~l1"e tor the separately derived system and tne first disconnecting means is sized from Table 250.66 according to the size of the ungrounded derived conductor. When ungrounded phase conductors are larger than J lOO-kcmil copper 01' 1750kcmil aluminum, the bonding jumper has to cornply with the 12)2% rule.

if routed with the raceways or cables, is required to be run in paralleL The size of the bonding jumper for each raceway 01' cable is required to be based on the size of the ungrounded conductors in each raceway or cable. The fault return path from the sourcc of the separately derived system rnay consist of the wiring method if it is adequare. For example, electrical meta1lic tubing and wireways are perrnitted to be used without regard to length and must simply be sized for the contained conductors. Flexible metal conduit and liquidtight flexible metal conduit have fairly severe restrictions on their use as equipment grounding conductors. Section 250.30(A)(2) permits nonfiexible metal raceways to be used for the supply-side bonding conductor or jumper, This language permits rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal conduit, and electrical metallic tubing but excludes flexible metal conduit (FMC) and liquidtight metal conduit (LFMC). Although specifically exc1uded by this section from use as the supplyside bonding jumper, FMC and LFMC could be used as the wiring method if a properly sized supply-side bonding jumper of the wire type is installed through these wiring methods. Refer to Table 2-3 and to 250.118(5) and (6) for their permitted use. The supply-side bonding jumper between the

CAUTION:

Here's How: Th method for determining the minimum size cf the supply-side bonding jumper is covered in detaif in the earlier discussion of _50.24(C) as well as in 250.28(D) for main and svstem bonding jumpersf Simply determine the circ\.;lar ~il ~rea of the !~gelt phase c~nductor .and use t~is size m Table 2;)0.66 fO determine the mirumum size ~f the bonding jumper- If the ungrounded conductors trom the source to the first disconnectinz means and overcurrent protec.or are paralleled in ar more raceways or cables, equipment bonding jumper,

separately derived system anel the first overcurrent

protective device serves as the means to clear a ground fault on the load or downstream side of the source, be it a transformer, generator, or other type of separately derived systern. Figure 2-49 shows two

scenarios, one where the system bonding jumper is

located at the source and another where the system bonding jumper is located at the firsr overcurrent protective device.

te

two

Um~atons of Fle~ible Metal and Lquidtight Flexible Metal Conduits Maximum Overcurrent Protaetlon
20 amperes

length

in

Ground Return

NEC
Reference
250.118(5)

Size

Path
6ft(18ml 6ft{1.8m) 6ft(1.8mj Not acceptable

20 amperes
% through 1% 608niperes Not acceptable Larger than 1 y~

250. 118(6) 250 ..118(6}

250.118(6)

100

UNIT2

Svstem Grounding

!
i

path for I ground fault at source i with system bonding jumper ai source I

I Fault-current

.---~'----. I
I

= =

I Fault-current path for I ground fault at source with L...-:/~ system bonding jumper at ,./ I first disconnecting means _

FIGURE 2-49 GrLnd-f:1t return path over supplv-side bonding jumper and over neutral, (@ Cengage Learning 2012)

FIGURE 2-50 Clearing ground faults at source of separate!y derived system. ( Cengage Learning 2012)

.. ==-8_ - ....

t- "" '"-~-~
= The current fiowing in the fauIted circuit on the secondary of thc transformer is reflected in the primary, based on the ratio of the windings of the transformer, The overcurrent protective devices on the primary will open the circut, provided adequate current is flowing through them. As can be seen, the fauIt current path on the secondary does not pass through an overcurrent device. The lower drawing in Figure 2-50 illustrates lhe current path where the ground fault is in the source enclosure and the system bonding jumper is in the panelboard, Fault current must travei over the supply-side bonding jumper between enclosures, over the system bonding jumper, and return to lhe source over the grounded system conductor. Like the upper drawing, current flowing in the faulted circuit on the secondary of the transformer is reflected in the primary, based on the ratio of the windings of the transformer. The overcurrent protective devices on the primary will open the circuit, provided adequate current is flowing through them.

As shown in the ~pper drawing of Figure 2-49 with the system bonding jumper in the source of the separateiy derived SYf,tem, fault current flows from the source to the panelboard, through an overcurrent device, and returns to Ithe source over the supply-side bonding conductor a~d the system bonding jurnper, ~n the ~ower drawirg wit~ the system bon~ing jumper m the panelboard, fault current tlows from the source to the panelboard, through an overcurrent device, over the system bonding jumper, and returns to the source over ~e grounded system conductor. In both installations'lthere should be sufficient fault current to cause the overcurrent protective device in series. with the fault ~oopen the faulted. circuit. Figure 2-59 shofls separately denved systems where the fault is located at the source of the system. In thc upper 1rawing, the current from the ground fault in the enclosure has a relatively short path over the system! bonding jumper, At this point, the conductors do npt have overcurrent protection.

UNIT 2

System Grounding

101

:~(J.30(A)(3) Greunded

onductor

The Requirements: If a grounded conductor is insialled and the system b11ndingjumper is not locared at the source, 250.30(l4)(3)(a) through ("4)(3)(d) rnust be compled with.
;S0.30(A)(3)(a) Sizing fJr a Single Raceway

The Requirement: Thd grounded conductor is required to be not smaller the required grounding electrode conductor spec_i~iedin Table 250.66, but is cor required to be larger ~ean the largest ungrounded :::~rived conductorts). For sets of ungrounded coniuctors larger than 11OO-temi] copper 01' 1750-kemil aluminum, the grounde~ conductor must not be . maller than 12;4% of the area of the Iargest set of

fuan

! Not smalier than Tabie 250.66 based on size o ungrounded derived conduetor. For largar conductors, use 12%% rule.

~~grOun.de.d denved c~nluctor~.

..

Discussion: ThIS requirement

identical to that for sizing grounded conduct~rs for the service and ensares that the grounded conductor is large enough to carry fault current back to ~e source (see Figure 2-49). Sce the discussion in 250.24(C)(1) in this book,
18

JL =
=

r1
.~,,~

!~ .. '~.
~j~l.
t".'.';I~ . . .. "'.

'i!'

o :.y. hw

_50.30(A)(3)(b) paralle~conductors )lore Raceways

in Two or

conductors .. re installed in parallel i two or more raceways, the grounded conductor is also required to be installed Ia parallel. The size of Ithe grounded conductor in each raceway is reqlr~d to be based on the total circular mil area of the ~aralle] derived ungrounded conductors in the racewty as indicated in (a) but not smaller than 1/0 AWG.

lhe Requirements: If . e ungrounded

Discussion: This requ.irlment is identical to that for

sizing grounded conductors for lhe service and ensures that the grounded conductor is large enough to carry faul.t curr~nt b.ack t~ the sourc,e: S~ Figure 2.-51 and the discussion m 25[24(C)(2J in this book. 150.30(A)(3)(c) Delta-Connected System "The grounded conductor of 3-phase, 3-wire delta system is required to have ~n ampacity not less than that of the ungrounded condpctors."

For parallel conductor installations, a grounded conductor is required in each raceway. The minimum size ot the grounded conductor is determined from Table 250.66 based upon size of ungrounded conductor n the raceway but not smaller than 1/0 AWG. For larger installations, appty the 12Y2% rule.
.. ----1

FIGURE 2-51 Minimum size of grounded conductor to serve as ground-fault return path when system bonding jumper is not located at

source.

250.30(A)(3).

( Cengage Learning 2012)

size as the ungrounded conductors, See Figure 2-51 and the discussion in 250.24(C)(J) in ths book. 250.30(A)(4) Grounding Electrode

Discussion: This requirement is identical to that for

sizing the grounded COl~~uctor for a delta-connected service and ensures tha] the grounded conduetor 18 large enough to carry fa lt current back to lhe source. The grounded conduet, is required to be the same

The Requirements: The grounding electrode for the

separately derived system is required to be as near as practicable to anel preferably in the same area as the grounding electrode conductor connection to the

1-02

UNIT 2 Syste~ Grounding

system. The grounding electrode must be the nearest one of the ~ollo'wing: L A n~etaJ :vater ~jpe grounding speclfied m 250_- 2(A)( 1) electrode. electrode, as as

2. A structural me~al grounding specified in 250.~2(A)(2)

Discussion:

Althougl the general purpose for grounding electrical sy:lems contained in 250.4(A)( 1) indicares that the system be connected to earth in a manner that will Iimit the voltage imposed by lightning, line sl:rges, or l:nfnte~tional.,;.ontact with hlgher-voltage lines and tnat will stabilize the voltage to earth during n01111al opration, the primary reason for grounding separate!y derived systems is indicated bv the grounding electrodes required to be used. Co~necting the separately derived systems to the grounding electrodes mentioned is primarily for the purpose of bonding electrical tructures or equipment that could become energized, and to equalize the potential of equiprnent supplied by the separately derived system to that of equipment that is supplied from the service. See Figure 2-5(2. The grounding electrode is required to be the n~are~t effectively grfunded metal water pipe or effectively grounclecl stiuctural metal zroundinz electrode. Both the water pipe grounding electrode and the str~lctural metal membF.r grounding electrode are required to be bonded become a part of the grounding. electro~e system, ISO they would be connected to lhe service neutral or grounded conductor. The
. ' <...i'.

anr

Nearest avaable:
Water pipe electrode per 250.52(Aj{ 1)

_.

r~'n ~l ,(di
IIJ L~!

separately derived system then uses the same water pipe or structural metal member as the grounding electrode. Potential differences are thereby equalized. The previous 250.52(A.)( I) requiring the grounding electrode connection to water pipe be made within 5 fi (1.52 m) from the point of entrance to lhe building has been relocated to 250. 68(C)(1). An exception is included for industrial and commercial buildings or structures in which conditions of rnaintenance and supervision ensure that only qualified persons service the installation. At locations in compliance with this rule, interior metal water piping located more than 5 ft (1.52 m) from the point of entrance is permitted to be used as a conductor to connect to the water pipe grounding electrode. It is required that the entire 1ength of the interior metal water pipe being used for the grounding electrode conductor be exposed, other than for short sections passing perpendicularly through walls, floors, and ceilings. Note that the definition of exposed in Arlide 100 does 110t require that the interior metal piping be visible for its entire length. Thc reference to 250.52(A)(2) deals with ways to determine whether the metal frame of the building or structure is connected to earth and thus becomes a grounding elcctrode, Bonding the structural metal to a concrete-encased grounding eleetrode is recognized to establish the structural metal as a groundng electrode. Note that if it is determined that the metal water piping system and/or the metal structure of lhe building in the vicinity of the separately derived system is not effectively grounded and is not required to be used as a grounding electrode for the separately derived system, requirements are in 250.1 04(D) for bonding these appurtenanccs. Interior metal water piping and structural metal members of the building are required either to be used as the zroundins electrode for the separately derived systel~1 01' to b~ bonded to rhc separately derived system.

d1; ..,

Structurat metal electr de per

250.52(A)(2)
T\II;o

~~\!1
~'

Exception No. 1: Any of the other electrodes identified in 250.52(A) are rcquired to be used where the electrodes specified above in 250.30(A)(4) are not available.

Exceptrons

-.J

~-~

FIGURE 2-52

__ ~_~ _+_~- ,,--( Cengage Leaming 2012)

r-~

separately

Groundng electrodes for derivfd systems, 250.30{A)(4).

Discussion: The other electrodes referred

250. 52(A) include concrete-encased ground rings, rod anel pipe electrodes,

to in electrodes, plate clcc-

trodes, other listed electrodes such as chemically

UNIT 2 System Grounding

103

.harged rods, and othellocal grounding elecrrodes such as underground ta ks or piping systems. These orher electrodes typica y are outside of the building ar structure and may be at a greater distance from the separarely derived system,

Discussion: By now, the requirernents

CAUTION:

are looking familiar and almost repetitious. The grounding electrode conductor connects the systern conductor that is required to be grounded to the grounding electrode. Thc grounding electrode conductor is sized from 250.66 in accordance with me size of the

InstalliLg

another

grounding

elec-

rrode for any purpose, I~cluding for a separately derived system, does notrelieve the instaIler from the requirement to bond ai of the grounding electrodes together, See 250.50 an 250.58. Exception No. 2 to ~1) and (2): If a separately derived system Oli~inates in listed equipment suitable for use as service equipment such as a unir substation, the grounding electrode used for the service 01' feeder equipment is permitted to be used as ~e grounding electrode for the separately derived systcm. 250.30(A)(S) Groundng Electrode Conductor,

supply ungrounded conductors. Here's How: Assume that a separately derived

systern supplies a 600-ampere panelboard. Two copper conductors with 75e insulation are selected on the basis of Table 31O.15( B)(J 6) and are to be connected in parallel. 350 kcmil THvVN at 310 amperes = 620 amperes 350 kcrnil
X X

700 kcmil

Single Separately Derived System The Requirement: A groundng electrode conductor for a single separately derived system is required to be sized in accordanc with 250.66 for the derived ungrounded conductors. It must be used to connect the grounded conductor of the deri ved system to the grounding electrode, ~s specified in 250.30(A)(4). This connection must be made at the same point OIl the separately derived Jystem where the system bonding jumper is insta1le~. Figure 2-53 shows this configuration SChematicalllY'

Table 250.66 requires a 2/0 AWG 01' larger grounding electrode conductor for this separately derived system. The connection of the groundng electrode conductor to the system must be made at the same location where the system bonding jumper is connected. This continues thc concept of single-point grounding. Excepton No. 1: Where the system bonding jumper specified in 250.30(,4.)(1) is a wire or busbar, it is permitted to connect the grounding electrode conductor to the equipment grounding terminal bar 01' bus provided the equipment grounding terminal bar or bus is of sufficient size for the separately derived system.

Discussion:

./1

/1

1.,

I conductor trom 250.6, I based on derived

[<nductors

rSz;

grounding

electr de

1 I

L'/
1I ii

~A~
= =

1-,

r'Ti;","b",,=:.':::::~

This exception is identical to that for making a grounding electrodc connecrion at thc servicc of identical configuration. Generally, the grounding electrode conductor is connected to tJ1C neutral conductor bus or terminal bar. The exception perrnits the connection to be made at the equipment grounding terminal bar for the purpose of facilitating the operation of a residual-type equipment groundfault protection system. These are some times ealled ground strap-type equipment ground-fault protection systems. For additional information, see the discussion in 250.24(A)(4). Exception No. 2: If a scparatcly dcrived
system originares in listed equipment that is suitable as service equipment, the grounding electrode conductor from the service or

FIGURE2-53 Gro nding electrode conductor, single separately d rived system, 250.30(A)(5). (Ceng geLeaming2012)

104

UNIT2

Systel

Grounding

feeder equiprnent to!tlle grounding electrode is permitted to servas the groundng electrode conductor fo the separatcly dcrived system, provided re grounding electrode conductor is of sufficient size for the separately dcrived system.

Discussion: This eqUiPrent usually is listed as "unit

substation." It typicall] consists of three sections. TIle first section is Oftin a medium-voltage section W.ith supply conductor over 600 volts fo.r premises wiring systerns that ha e over 600-volt distribution, Unit substations are al o available with the primary voltage under 600 volts, typically 480 volts. The center section usuallyl is a transformcr-type separately derived system The third section contains distribution equipmend for the derived systern. The seclon~ are bolted tOL )"ether and have. an ~qLlipment grounding bus connec ed to the three secuons. (See Figure 2-54.) The exccption is i tended to permit the grounding electrode conduct9f for the service or hizh-voltage section as well as ~he equipment grouming bus to serve as the grOl.m~ing electrode systern for thc separately derved system, provided that the conductor and bus are large gh,

circular mil area of the derived conductors, refening to 250.66, and selecting the minimum-size grounding electrode conductor. To use the grounding electrode conductor installed for the service equipment or highvoltage section of the unit substation, it must be not smaller than that required for the separatel y deri ved system. The same is true for the size of the equipment grounding bus in the unit substation. The grounding electrode to be used for the separately derived system determines the size of grounding electrode conductor requircd. If a water pipe or structural metal grounding electrode is used as provided in 250.30(A.)(7), the sizc of the grounding electrode conductor is determined from Table 250.66 on the basis of the size of thc derived conductors. If these grounding electrodes are not available and other grounding electrodes are used as permitted in Exception No. 1 to 250.30(A)(5), the requirements for sizing the grounding electrode conductor in250.66(A), (B), and (C) may be applied as appropriate.

ef10u

He~e's .How: DFtermine th~ mi~imum-size grounding elcctrode conductor required ror the separately derivcd system. This is done by deterrninina the

CAUTION: The conductors derived from a separately derived system ofien require a grounding electrode conductor larger than the grounding electrode conductor required for the higher-voltage primary suppIy.
Exception No. 3: A grounding clectrode conductor is not required for a system that supplies a Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 circuit and is derived from a transformer rated not more than 1000 volt-amperes, if the grounded conductor is bonded to the transformer frame or enclosure by a jumper sized in accordance with 250.30(.4)( I), Exception No. 3, anel the transforrner frame or enclosure is grounded by one of the rneans specified in 250.134.

Higher Voltage Section

Transformar Section

Distribution Section

Discussion: This exception is idenrical to Exception

...~""--.

No. 3 to 250.30(A)( 1) except that ir applies to the

:-r----... -.- '

I
i

I'tt'eo f ar separate!y derived : perrT)1 systE(m if large enough

I

! Gro ndng electrooe conductor !

I
I

sizing of the grounding electrode conductor rather

than to the sizing of the system bondng jumper. In essence, a grounding electrode conductor is not required when a praperly sized system bonding conduetor i8 installed. This connects file secondary of the CIass 1, Class 2, ar Class 3 separately derived systern to lhe enclosure.

~--------~I--~=-'

FIGURE 2-54 Grou~ding electrode for separately derived system fls part of unit substation, 250.30(A)(5), Excepiion. (@ Cenqeqe I ,) Lesrnina -' 2(12)

UNIT 2

System Grounding

1D5

::50.30(A)(6) Groundill

Electrode Conductor, :\Iultiple Separately D~rived Systems

The Requirement: A common groundng electrode conductor for multiple separately derived systems is
nermitted, lf installed, the common grounding elecrrode conductor s requred to be used to connect me grounded conductor of the separately derived system to the grounding electrode, as specified in 250.30(A)( 4). A grounding electrode conductor tap shall then be installed ftom each separately derived 50 ystem to the common grounding electrode conduc:01'. Each tap conductor is required to connect the grcunded conductor of~e separately derived system ::0 the common grounding electrode conductor. This connection is required be made at the same point )D L'1e separately derived system where the system

I i

Oerived conductors 2,
500 kcrni, GEC tap

II

jAWG /

(TabIe250.66)
\~

'\
i

i Oerived conductor 3/0 i AWG, GEC tap =4 I AVl/G (Table 250.66) i

L7/'~
~~~~~~~=
!

\
I

t6

I Derived conductor 500 i

I kcmil,
=--==i==~~

- ~nding.jUmper is insta/led. , .

7/

I AWO

GEC tap = 1/0 (Table250.66)

Discussion: The concept of installing a common

1Iounding electrode cpnductor and a grounding ~le~trode conductor tal1 to two or more separately :.enved systems must t)e clearly understood as being an exception to thcl general rule of eonneeting each separately derive1 system individually to the .;rounding electrodes specified in 250.30(A)(5). As can be seen in that section, the grounding electrode :~r the separately derived system is required to be ~ the nearest effectivel)1 grounded structural metal member of the building 01' the nearest effectively grounded metal water pipe. See Figure 2-55. If these grounding electrodes do not exist in the

\~ '\

I I

~
III

FIGURE 2-55

(GEC), multiple

Grounding electrode conductor separately derived systems, 250.30(A)(6). ( Cengage Learning 2012)

erea served by a separtely derived system, the insrallation of a common groundng electrode and I grounding electrode taps is pennitted. Excepton No. 1: the system bonding jumper specified in 250.30(A)(l) is a wire or busbar, it is permitl ldto connect the grounding electrode con uctor to the equipment grounding termina bar or bus provided the equipment grounding terminal bar or bus is of sufficient size f6r the separately derived systern. I

IIf

The exception permits the connection to be made at the equipment grounding terminal bar for the purpose of facilitating the operation of a residual-type equipment ground-fault protection system. These are sometimes called ground strap-type equipment ground-fault protection systems. For additional information, see lhe discussion in 250.24(A)(4). electrode conductor is not required for a system that supplies a Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 circuit and is derived from a transforrner rated not more tha:n 1000 volt-amperes, provided the system grounded conductor is bonded to the transformer frame or enclosure by a jumper sized in accordance with 250.30(A)( 1), Exception No. 3, and the transformer frame ar enclosure is grounded by one of the means specified in 250.134.

Exception No. 2: A grounding

is identic.al to that for making a grounding elctrode connection at the ser;.::e if the jnstallatl~ is identical. Generally, the ;;ounding electrode c9nductor is connected to the aentral conductor bus terminal bar in the service.

:Jisc.ussion: Thi~

=r=
or

106

UNIT 2 Syst rn Grounding

Discussion: Ths exc ption 18 identical to Exception No. 3 to 250.30(A)( 11) except that it applies to the sizing of t~e groundipg electrode conductor for the tap grounding electrode conductor rather than to the sizing of the system bonding jumper. In essence, a grounding electrode conductor is 110t required when a properly sized systen~ bonding conductor is installed, This connects the se90ndary of the Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 separately derived system to the enclosure. 250.30(11)(6)(a)

250.66., based on the derived phase conductors of lhe separately derived system it serves. Discussion: This tap conductor is a grounding electrode conductor tapo When we think of a tap condueto r, we generally expect the tap conductor to be smaller than the common conductor. No requirement is in the NEC for this concept. Each conductor must be sized for the component it serves.

colmon

Grounding Electrode

Conductor Sze
The Requirement: The common grounding electrodc conductor is pcrmitt,d to be one 01' the following: 1. A conductor of the wire-rype not smaller than 3/0 A WG copJer or 250-kcmil aluminum
I

Here's How: The grounding electrode conductor tap conductor is sized using Table 250.66 for the
size of the derived ungrounded conductors from the individual separately derived system and extends to the common groundng electrode conductor. Figure 2-53 illustrates sizing grounding electrode conductor tap conductors for three separately derived systems. ln each case, determine the size ofthe derived ungrounded conductors. Then go to Table 250.66 to determine the minimum size of grounding electrode tap conductor. Discussion: An cxception is provided for this tap COI1ductor sizing, identical to that for sizng the grouncling electrode conductor for the separately derived system originating in lisred unit substations. 250.30(A)(6)( c) Connections

2. The metal ~rmpe. of th~ ~uilding or s~ructure that complies with 2)O.J2(A)(2) 01' lS connected to a grounding electrode system by a conductor notlsmaller than 3/0 AWG copper or 250-kcmil ruminum

Discussion: As can be seen in this scction, two methods are provided to sdrve as a common grounding electrode conductor. Th'r first option is new to the 201] NEC. It allows the lJnetal frame of a building that is recognized as a gronding electrode in 250.52(A)(2) to serve as the gr1unding electrode conductor for the separately derived system. See the discussion in 250.52(A)(2) for thelrnethods provded for creating a grounding electrode from the metal building structure. The other met~od provided is to install a 3/0 AWG copper or t250-kcm! aluminum common grounding electrodJ conductor, Note that these sizes are also the maxim~m size for the grounding electrode conductor re~uil'ed in Table 250.66. When smaller separately derived systerns are installed, this maximum-sized grounding electrode conductor may be larger than was Irequired in previous editions of the NEC. Because these common grounding electrode conductors ften are installed n concealed spaces, installing e maximum-size conductor required at the time 0- construction accommodates the a~ditiOn of future sfParatelY derive~ systems.

The Requirements: All tap connections to the common grounding electrode conductor are required to be made at an accessible location by one of the following methods: 1. A connector listed as grounding and bonding
equipment 2. Listed connections to aluminum or copper busbars not less than Y4in. x 2 in. (6 mm x 50 mm). Where aluminum busbars are used, the installation must comply with 250.64(A) 3. B Y the exothermic welding process Tap conductors are required to be connected to the cornmon grounding electrode conductor in such a manner that the common grounding electrode conductor remains without a splice or joint. See Figure 2-56. Discussion: This section describes the methods permitted to be used to make connections from the tap grounding electrode conductors to the common grounding electrode conductor. ln addition to the

2:>0.30(A){6)(b) Tap Conductor Size The Requirementt

conductor is requir~ Each tap grounding electrode to be sized in accordance with

UNIT 2 System Grounding

107

! ~nd fonding equipment //

~om,mon

fCon~ector

Hsted as grounding

I I

GEC without spl~.:_-.J

! Lsted co~nectons
i aluminum
I

// 'r-:---

7/r-----Jt. 1/ r:':/~/ I /
'!

to copper or Ibusbar Common GEC wthout splce

I
I
!

-~-{J--;""""~-+......,

~l
~

!i I~I I~l ! '(}j~ I /\'i ~'i l:,~j; 10)! \~! ~! l-I

I~!

(@I

1~1

r~l

Exothetm~C weld connection ot GEC common and tap conductors

FIGURE2-56

conne~ion

01grounding electrode

conductor taps to co/nmon grounding electrode conductor {GEC}, 250,30{A}(6)(c).

( Cenga e Learning 2012)

specific connection re~ui:ements ln. this section, ~he general rules for connectmg grounding and bonding equipment in 250.8 apply. The phrase connector listed as grounding and bonding equipment in this section means a connec-

prescribed in the UL Standard 467. These connectors are identified as grounding and bonding equipment, usually on lhe shipping carton. Included in this category are some split bolts and some compression connectors. Soe Figure 2-56 for an illustration of a connection made with a split bolt. The phrase listed connections to aluminum or copper busbars allows any listed connector to be used. It is the responsibility of the installer to select a connector that is suitable for the connection being made, including the size of conductor, and for connecting the conductor material, either copper or aluminum, to other conductors or to the busbar provided for in (2). Figure 2-56 shows connections being made to a busbar with listed connectors and bolts, nuts, and washers, A1though not specifically mentioned in the list of connection methods in 250.30(A)(6j(c), use of irreversible compression connectors is an ideal way to make these connections from conductor to conductor or from conductor to busbar. Many of these compression connectors are listed as grounding and bonding equipment. Be certain to se1ect the appropriate compression connector as well as the appropriate tool to rnake these connections. Carefully follow al1 manufacturer' s instructions. It is Importam that the rules n 110.14 be followed, as well as any installation instructions from the manufacturer o the wire connector. Extensive infonnation is available in the UL General Information Directory under the heading "Wire Connectors and Solderina Luas (ZMVV)," When an aluminum or copper busbar is used to make the connection between Lhe common and tap grounding electrode conductors, specific installation rules must be followed. The busbar must be not smaller than >~ in, X 2 in. (6 mm X 50 mm). Although specific rules for mounting lhe busbar are not provided in this section, other general rules for mounting electrical equipment in Article 110 must be followed. These rules include Neat and workmanlike requirements in 110.12 and Mounting electrical equipment in 1l0.13(A.). If aluminum busbars are used, the installation must comply with 250. 64(A.) to avoid problems with corrosion. Alurninum busbars should not be mounted directly on masonry walls that are subject to dampness or wetness but should
w '-' /

ror that has passed a

ort-time, high-current test as

be mounted on suitable standoffs.

_ 10& ..'

UNIT 2

Syst m Grounding

250.30(A)(7) Installa~on

The Requirements: The installation

of ali sround-

supplied, a grounding electrode connection is required to be made in compliance with (C).

ing electrode ~ond~lct~s is, required to com;ly with 250.64(A), (B), (e), ann (Ej.

2. Groundng

Discussion: NEe 2iO.64(AJ applies to installing

aluminum and copper-clad aluminum grounding electrode conductorsj (B) provides requirements on securing and protecting grounding electrode conductors; (e) has reqr.irements for maintaining the grounding electrode lin one continuous length but includes acceptable methods for splicing them; and (E) provides rules 9n bonding ferrous (magnet. ic) wiring methods userf to protect the grounding electrode from physical damage. These installation rules are discussed in of this book,

Electrode, Except as permitted by 250.34 for portable and vehicle-mounted generators, the groundng electrode is required to comply with 250.30(.1)(4).

3. Bonding Path and Conductor.

A supplyside bonding jurnper is required to be installed from the source of a separately derived system to lhe first disconnecting means in compliance with 250.30(A)(2).

Discussion: 111e meta! enclosures

un/3
I

250.30(A)(8) Bonding Structural steel and metal piping are required to be connected to the grounded cond.uct~r of _a sepalja~ely derived system in accordance with 2)0.104(D}.

The Requirement:

for ungrounded separately derived systems are required to be grounded in similar fashion to that for the enclosures for ungrounded service equipmenr. As previously discussed, this results in a case ground, n which the enclosures are connected to the grounding electrode system, but the electrical system itself is not grounded (see Figure 2-57). Grounding the

Discussion: As seeL in 250.3.0(A)(4), effectively grounded metal wal~r pipes and metal structural
stee1 are required tOfe used as the grounding electrode for separately erived systems when they are in the vicinity 01' the separately derived system. NEC 250.1 04( D) contains Ir~q~irements f~r bon~l1~ ~truc-, tural steel and metal ![llpmg that are m the vicmity of the separately deri ved system but are not being used as a grounding elecWodc.

I Unqrounded

I separatety

I
~..,

I derived system
,~~U-

; 1t
ij II
~
'-~l

I! li
',\===

, Equiprl1ent

250.30(B) un~rounded Systems

The Requirem.ents: The equipment of an ungrounded separately denved sistem must be grounded as specified in (B)(1) through (B)(3). 1. Grounding E~ectrode Conductor. A zrounding electrode lonductor, sized in acc~rdal1ce with 250.66 fqr the derived phase conductors, is required to lhe used to connect the metal en-

groundlOg I conductor I, ,

I' Building .
1 ..'

I ,

'I

I meial ano I'~I'! i I. I 11 water pipe i li; !i., electrodes I li,LJlJ~ ~ lV tl;l
I

'. _

r1-~Yl vI
A'i

closures of the derived system to the grounding electrode, as specified in 250.30( A)(5) or ~4)(6) as app icable. This connection is per-

I Supply-side
I

\
bonding jumper I
J

mitted to be fade at any point on the sepa:ately derive~1 system .fiom the source to the nrst system dlfconnectlllg means. If the source is located OUiSide the building or structure

FIGURE 2-57 Grounding electrode and grounding electrode conductor for ungrounded separately derived system, 250.30(B}. ( Cengage Learning 2012)

UNIT 2

$ystem Grounding

j09

equipment

fOI.'

an ungrOU;lded s.yste.m pr."o .t .ect.sp~oecause the equipment tnat

ple from shock hazards,

contains 01' 18 supplied from the separately derived svstem 1S at ar near earth ootential.
." ""

" 11 rs ~ required L'13t 3 SYPP1Y-Slde bondmg Jumper De installed. frO~l the enct:sure for ~be source to the enclosure for rne first fsconnectlllg means, The
L-

supply-side bonding jumper is required to be sized as thouzh +;'0'" n.1'oh rd"'d svstem "8 a "0,,1']+ UiU b1 it . we"e ~ 1. ,l.l 11-1 a 5 1.,1 v .)' -d ..... lvu .. l,l'-. of the pointer to 250.30(A)(2jJ. Determine the size 01' the deriv:~ conduct~l~S ~om ~l:e separ~'tely derived S~IStem. I hen, take Uns size t(i) Table 2)0.66 to determine minimum size of the s~lpply-side bonding jumper, For separately deriv1d systems permitted to be

As can be seen ia both Figures 2-58(A) and (B), the system bonding jumper is located at or near the sarne point where Lhe grounding electrode conductor connection is made. This is done to comply with 2S0.30(A)( 5). As pointed out in thc exception to this section, the rules for grounding electrode connections are modified for impedance-grounded systems in 25036 and 250.186 as applicab1e. The sizing of the systern bonding jurnper anel grounding electrode conductor are covered previously in 250.30(A). For ungrounded systems, refer to Figure 2-59,

ungrounded, see 250.20(lJ),

The ungrounded system originares outside so a grounding electrode connection to the metal equipment is required at that location. As shown in Figure 2-59(A), an equipment grounding conductor is installed from lhe source of lhe separately derived system to the enclosure for the building disconnect-

250.30(C) OutdJrs

Source

"If the source of the srpoJTatelY derived system is

locatel1 outside the bui1ding or snuctnre suoplied, a

gr .. oundin.. lge~ectr ..Odle.c.o.nnJ.leCtion sha.. l.. 1 ~e ma.,de at the source location to one or more grounding electrodes ia compliance with 250., O. ln addition, the installation shall comply with 2 0.30(A) for grounded sys-

ing means.
lu Figure 2-59(B), the source (tnmsformer) of the separately derived system is located remotely from the unit substation. As a result, a grounding
electrode and grounding clectrodc conductor are

tems or with ') '10 3("('B' f I-r unzroun ded 'vi b t. 'v ~_. J. b U,-,
j )

s'V""'te'11S J 0<J. '.

,,*

Exception: The grounding electrode cem(,.lUCh.Jr conneUi.on fot impedance grounded neutral systems shall comply with 250.36 ar 250.186 as applicable.
vlS~USSlOll:
:n' ,

required at each of the locations fOI the electrical equiprnent. In addition, because there is no overcurrent protection provided where the feeder from the transformer to the building originares, the overcurrent protection for the conductors must comply with an applicable section of 240.21 (C).

1'h' ~ 18 1S

a. nev,iI

se~tlOn. m t 1e k

'1

.,C 11 "-'E"C' I .. 1~ .... ,

Similar to the rules for servrces m 250. 24(A)( L), a grounding electrode co hductor connection is required at the source of a separately derived system that is Iocatcd outside. Figur:: 2-58(A) shoJs a generato~ that is 10-

250.32 BUILDINGS

OR STRUCTURES SUPPLIED
BY FEEDER(S) OR BRANCH CIRCUIT(S)
250.32(A) Grounding Elootro do
structures) supplied by feederts) or branch circuius) are required to have a grounding electrode or grounding electrode system installed in accordance with Part III of Artiele 250. The grounding electrode conductoris) must be connected in accordance with 250.32(B) or (C). Where there is no existing grounding electrode, the grounding electrodes) required in 250.50 are rcquired to be installed.
01'

cated outnoors. C01meCr1fn to a grou.ndin.. g elect~?de

1S

shown at lhe generat r. The generator qualifies

as a separately derived .'ystem because ali system and circuit conductors afe switched in the transfer
switch. lu Figure 2-58(B) a unit substation is Iocaied

The Requirement: Buildingts)

~ ..
v

outdoors. The trallsform{- section also qualifies as a separately derived systelF because the circuit conductors are isolated ele .trically from the primary conductors other than thr ugh equipment grounding conductors that are inter al to the equiprnent.
*Reprinted with permission fro NFPA 70-20 l l ,

l.3nJ

UNIT 2

Syst m Grounding

SOUC of separately
derived systern

::,......---:::--

~=:v)--------C,~~------~'=>(1)'
~ i

(~)

II

,&. = Neutra!
isoated trorn enclosure

Grounding sleotrode connsction reoured at source if it is located , outdoors.

~~~l 1
J
!

i, Equpment grounding conductor 2. Systern bonding [umper , >"" Ground-fault current path

Unt substation located outcoors

',~~!$~
r::\
"

I
!

i Gr<bundng eectrode connecton re~uired a source if lt s located

j,

""" --------,

1. Equipment

grounding conduotor

outdoors.

2. System bondrng jumper 3, Equipment grounding busbar

,------'

&:;; Neutra lsoatec from encosurs

bonded to enciosure

FIGURE 2-58

Gr unding requirernents for grounded separatelv derived svsterns havng the source located outdoors, 250.30{C). ( Cengage Leaming 2012)

D;.M)J~S';llJiL'

ls< ~ r~\l.1 ,\y l\t the. reJ~rne.~ to Pnrt m of Article 250 .. all a the grounding electrodes described n 250.52(":(1) through (A)( 4) that are present at the buil or structure are required

I'ng

to be bO\lded tog,ether to torro a. groundlug electrode system. Note that the Code does not require these eectrodes to be installed if they are not present, but to be bonded together if they are present,

UNIT 2

System Grounding

'111

BuHing or structure

Unit substation located outdoors

disconnectnq means

~'>-">';'::> > ':> ,{ ,,> ',' <'" ,':~. l' .~ ., ~

I','"
'-11

electrode connecton requr d at source it s Iocated L__ outdoors.

;F:-' ',.'::~~.'.

-'"','
'::->'>;::',..::.s.:..c~.:...:.:...:.c.:...sL-_----~------,

'; ',i:./,:'. ir

I~~"'-' I
I

1. Ungrounded saparately derived system 2. Equipment grounding busbar bonded to enclosure 3. Equipment grounding conductor

Building or structure disconnectinq means

~;;;'\3'

',-~ !

Xi"" ';:.
~.

/'7~.:.:.: ~':"";":;'----"':',","yr-_Y

'w-;. -:,.; . ". ,..; .., J ... '. i . ....jI

1. Ungrounded ssparately derived systern without overcurrent protection on secondary 2. Equlpment groundng busbar bonded to encosure 3. Equipment grounding conductor 4. Suppty-side bonding conductor

rl-----

------

/ :---l

Grounding electrode connection I required at source lf It s located outdoors.

FIGURE 2-59

Grounding requirernents for unqrounded separatelv derived systems having the source located outdoors. 250.30(B}(1 j and 250.30(Cj. (@Cengage Leaming 2012)

I
Figure 2-60 shows the general requirements for

the grounding system related to supplying a building or structnre by a !eeder or branch circuito The

The grounding electrodes described (A)(l) through (A)(4) are as follows:

(A)(1) (A.)(2)

in 250.52

phrase where availabl

was changed to if present in

Metal underground water pipe

Metal frame of the building or structure Concrete-encased electrode Ground ring electrodes are not pres-

250.50 in the 2005 N C to require the use of concrete-encased groundi g electrodes. An exception is ~r~~i~ed for concrete-Fncased el~ctrode.s ". existing buildings so concrete s not required to De damaged
\O

(..1.)(3) (A)(4)

lf the above grounding

connect to the cone ete-encased electrode.

ent ar the building or structure supplied by a feeder

112

UNIT 2

Syste

Grounding

Separata bui!ding or structure

Separate building ar structure

.----A-.
,//

Feeder with ~quipment ~round!ng conductor Neutra! tsotatad

I Branch I circuit with I equipment

I

I
I

grounding i conductor

Gro nding requirements for buildings or structur~s supplied by feeders) or branch circuitts). 250.3 (Aj. (@ Cengage Leaming 2012)

FIGURE 2-60

FIGURE

2-61 Exception for buildings or structures supplied by only one branch cireuit, 250.32(A), Exceotion. (@CengageLearning2012}

or branch circuit, one or more of the grounding electrodes identified in 250.50(A)(5) through (A)(8) must be installed. The grounding electrodes described in 250.52(A){5J through (A)(8) include the following:
(A)(5)

Rod and

Pl,pe electrodes
systems

(A)(6) (A)(7) (A)(8)

Other liste electrodes

Plate elect odes Other loca metal underground or structun s

These grounding electrodes are required to be bonded together to form the grounding electrode system and are required to be connected as specified in 250.32(B) or (C) (seII Figure 2-60). An Exception: A g ounding electrode is not ~'eqlr~dwhere o~ ~ a single bra~ch ~ircuit, lnc:ludmg ~_~ultl1'lre branch CZrCUl!, supp~les ~he,bultdmg 0j' and the bra~ch ctrcuu includes an equtpment grounding conductor for grounding the normally noncurrent-carrying metal parts of equipment.

The branch circuit can be any of the branch circuits recognized or permitted in the Code. This includes a 2-wire or a multiwire branch circuit. An equipment groundiug conductor recognized in 250.118 must either enclose the circuit conductors or be run with the branch circuit conductors. Table 2-4 summarizes some of the branch circuits permitted to supply an additional building 01' structure. Conductors at higher voltages, such as 480 volts, typically are installed as feeders to a second or additional building rather than as an individual branch circuit.

250.32(8) Grounded Systems

The Requirement: An equipment grounding conductor as described in 250.118 is required to be run with the supply conductors and be connected to the

=:

Permitted Circuit Configurations

Voltage 120 120/240*
208Y/120*

Discussion: Note that this exception from the re-

quirement to have a gr unding electrode or grounding electrode system at the second or additional building ar structure a plies only if the building or ~~~ctur~ is supp~ie~ byl~ single branch circuit: ln adoinon, tne brancn ClfCJ!t must include an equipment grounding conductor for grounding equipment at the additional building or structure (see Figure 2-61).

Number of Current Carrying Conductors

Common Designation (Ali with Ground)

120-V,2-wire

2
2 3 or 4

120/240-V,
3-wire 208Y/120-V,

3-phase,
4-wire
*Considered a multiwire branch circuito

.)-

UNIT 2

Svstern Grounding

~ :11.3 _~==""_""'"

equlprnent \ grounding fonductor

I Feeder

. Service

equipment

"~-l--\\

wit

I Panelboard0
I separate
,

building I
~~J

\\ \'
~

~ ,

is permitted to be any of the appropriate ones frorn 250.118. Permitted are rigid and intermediate steel conduits. Some AHJs and electrical engineers will require these conduits to be coated with a protective tape or paint to protect them frorn corrosion. Electrical metallic tubing is not often accepted for underground installations, as the EMT is not designed or intended for that purpose. The equiprnent grounding conductor of the wire type is required to be sized from 250.122. The rating of the overcurrent device at the origination of the feeder or branch circuit is used i11 Table 250.122 to determine the appropriate size of the equipment grounding conductor, Conductors ar cables that are listed for direct burial are often installed.

fiGURE 2-62 GrOlnding at separare buildinq or structure sunplied with equipment groundng
conductor. 250. 32{BI . ( Cengage Leamng 2012)

250.32(8) Exception
The Requirements: For installations made in compliance witli previous editions of this Code that permitted such connection, the grounded conductor run ivith the supply to lhe building or structure is permitted to sen'e as lhe ground-fault return path if all the following requirements continue to be met: 1. an equipment grounding conductor is not run with the suppl to the building 01' structure, 2. there are no continuous metallic paths bonded to the grounding system in botn buildings or structures involved, and 3. ground-fault protection of equipment has not heen installed on lhe supply side ofthefeederis]. grounded conductor is used for grounding as provided in this Exception, the size of lhe grounded conductor to the building or structure must be the largest ofeither ofthefollowing: 1. The calculated load as determined by 220.61 2. A.n equipment grounding quired by 250.122. conductor as re-

building ar structure di connecting means and to the IJ grou.ndil1c. el.ectI.'Od\:."{S~ . The eqUiPm.ent gr.ounding conductor must then b used for grounding or bondof equipment, struc res, or frames required to be grounded 01' bonded. T te equipment grounding conductor must also hLo;SiZJ, in accordance with 250.122. :~_ny instaHe.d grounde conductor (often a l:eutral) IS not permitted 10 be connected to the equipment gr~Undi~g con~uctor

Ito the grOlU1din~electrodets).

Discussion: 1he eqlFpment grouncnng conduclar that is run with thb branch circuit or feeder is required to be bonded to the equipment grounding terminal bar in the pa elboard or building diSCOl1necting rneans ar the a i ditional building or structure served, See Figure 2-,2. The terminal bar for the grounded conductor-which is often a neutral-sis isolated eleetrically from the enclosure, To accomplish this, the ma n bonding jumper furnished with the panelboard O' disconnecting means is not installed to connect t . neutral terminal bar to the enclosure, In fact, it is often a good idea to discard

ri the

main bonding jur ler to prevent ir from being

installed nappropriate y at some later time. The feeder or bran~h circuit supplying the building or structure may installed either overhead or underground. Obviously, the applicable NEC rules for in~tal1in.g the feed~~ or branch c~cuit m~st be complied with. The eqlhlpmem grounding conductor

Discussion: This Exception was previously Section 25032(B)(2) and permitred using the grounded system conductor (often a neutral) for two functions. The section was changed to an exception to the eral rule in 250.32(B) anel applies to only existing electrical installations. AlI installations made after the adoption of the 2008 NEC are not permitted to use this exception. The first function served by

bf

114

UNIT2 System Grounding

the neurral to continue to be used as the ground-faul: retum path. The conditions are as follows:
Panelboard at separare building

t::l~:.....-~

I ! bar tlonded ............ .;.;..! ! cabinet

1-----'
I

Nel termin~
to

1. An equipment grounding conductor is not run with the supply to the buldng or structure. The equipment grounding conductor can be any of those identified in 250.118. This includes fi proper1y sized conductor or the metallic wiring method such as conduit or cable that might enclose the feeder conductors between the buildings. If any equipment grounding conductor is run between the buildings or structures, t is not permitted to reground the grounded system conductor at the separate building or structure. 2. There are no continuous metallic paths bonded to the grounding systern in both buildings 01' structures involved. Continuous metallic paths between the buildings can consist of one or many objects. A partial Iist follows: a. Metallic wiring methods such as conduit, tubing, and cable sheaths b. Any metal piping system such as water, sprinkler system, compressed air, steam, gas, process system, drainage, and so on c. Cable tray systems d. Shields for cable systems such as for telephone, communications, data, alarm, con0'01, and 80 on e. Conveyors systerns
01'

Only for existinq wiring systems that cornped with

previous edition of NEC that permitted the practice;

grounded system condudtor permitted to rernain grounded li:

1, No equiprnent groundng conductor with feeder 2. No contnuous metaHi6 paths bonded to elsctrical system ln both buildings

3. Ground-taut protectio
at service

of equipment not lnstaed

f di . , FIGURE 2-63 ExcePtl~l or groun mg at exrstmq separate bulding or str cture previously using the grounded svstem con uctor for the ground-fault retum path, 2sh.32(B), Exception.

,I

, """""""",,"",---=:ngata~:'' .2Dl2) _
the grounded (neutral) iondUCior is that of retuming unbalanced current ron: phase c?nductr~ back to the source. The seco d function 1S that of serving as an equipment grounding conductor to return line-to-ground-fault currfnts back to the source (see Figure 2-63). Strict conditions are in place in this exception to prevent neutral current from returning to the source over unintended paths such as metal pipingv or conI duit systems. The intended path, of course, is over the neutral conductor thar is installed with the feeder conductors to the second or additional buildingis) or
L

other process transportation

structurers).
The three conditions identified in this exception must continue to be sa .sfied before the grounded conductor is permitted to be used for the ground- fault return path. See Figure 2-63. The language in the exception now requires thaf the conditions that permitteci the exception to be used originally be verified for

li is difficult to bond and ground all the wiring methods, equipment, communications cables, and process equiprnent at each building ar structure ou the premises and not to have an electrically conductive interconnection between buildings. The more complex the systems, the more difficult it is to maintain electrical isolation. The simple solution is to install an equipment grounding conductor between buildings and not attempt to use the groundcd (neutral) conductor for that purpose. 3. Ground-fault protection of equipment has not been installecl on the supply side of the feeder, This third condition intends to prevent a C0111mon problern for equipment ground-fault protection systems. Systems for ground-fault protection of

UNIT 2

System Groundng

115

equipment will not funo~ion properly if the system grounded conductor is grounded again on the load side or downstream froui the protecton equipment. I Only if all three conqitions were met, the system

/1system
I

J.

Ungrounded

I
\

i Panelboard at seoarate building ar structure

grounding conductor (often a neutral) was permitted to be grounded again at the second or additional building. As indicated,

\\

I
'

I
whe the system grounding

conductor (often a neutral) is grounded agan at

the second or additional building, the conductor serves two functions: It barries the unbalanced currem from the phase C09dUCtors back to the source and serves as the equipfent grounding conductor. As a result, the grounfed conductor is required to be sized not smallerlhan required for load calculations of the feeder or service neutral load in 220.6101' as an equiprn nt grounding conductor in 250.122.

'\ = =

..!

I Equipment
i
I

__ ~\".

\". \'",-

JL // = //
=/L

connected to groundng electrode system at each bui!ing or structure I

250.32(C) UngrdUnded Systems

~50.32(C)(1) Supplied Crcut

by a Feeder or Branch

FIGURE 2-64 Grounding of equipment for ungrounded systems at separate building or structures, 250.32(C). ( Cengage Learning 2012)

The Requirement: An equipment grounding cond~ctor as de~crbed in 1250.118 shall be installed with the suppiy conductors and be connected to the uilding 01' structure disconnecting means and to the grounding electrodets). fT'he grounding electroders) i;;; also required to be ctnnected to the building or
t1~ctur~discon.nectil1~reans.
l!tSCUSSlon:
T~lS

is installed with the feeder 01' branch circuit must be connected to the metal enclosure for the building disconnecting means and to the grounding electrode conductor. 250.32(C)(2) Supplied System by a Separately Derved

. .

..

sec:t1oQchang:d significantly durmg theyrocessmg ot ~he12011 NEC. .As can be s~en, an eq~lpment, groundm c?n~uctor 18 now required to be installed between pUlldmgs or structures supplied by a feeder from an ungrounded system. Though not mentoned in this section, equipment grounding conductors of the wire type are required 10 be sized from NEC Table 250.122. For grounding equpment for an ungrounded system at the second or additional building, the grounding electrodes a~ the second building are required to be bonded together to form the grounding electrode system (se~ Figure 2-64). A grounding electrode conductor th n connects the grounding

tu Requirements:
(a) Having Overcurrent

Protection. If overcurrent

protection is provided where the conductors originate, theinstallation shall comply with (C)( J).

(b) Without Overcurrent Protection. If overcurrent

protection is not provided where the conductors originate, the installation shall comply with 250.30(B). If installed, the supply-side bonding jumper shall be connected to the building or structure disconnecting means and to the grounding electrodets).

electrode svstem to the buildinz or structure disconJ I~' necting means. This 1S ften referred to as a "case ground." The equipme t grounding conductor that
I

Discussion: Section 250.32(C)(2)(a), by referring to 250.30(Cj( 1), requires an equiprnent grounding conductor be installed with the feeder or branch
circuit installed from the source of the ungrounded system. This equipment grounding conductor s

116

UNIT 2 System Grounding

Building or structure disconnecting means

~~~~~~'~~~~~~~"'~

Groundinq electrode connsction required at source i lt 18located outdoors,

I
!

1. Ungrounded separately derved system , 2. Equipment grounding busbar bonded to enclosure ~~. Equipment grounding conductor

1 ~ I'l' ~tJ-"'
:.
"

... ':
.

,.

-/
,

~j
'1 1

'

;!!J!J4f5.Y
!
i

'

Grounding electrode connection required at source if t is ocatad outdoors

.

1. Ungrounded separ~te!y derived system wnnout overcurrent protec:!on 00 secondary 2. Equipment groundlng busbar bonded to enclosure 3, Equipment grounding conductor 4. Supply-side bondng conductor

FIGURE Z-65

Grau ding and bandng requirements for ungrounded separately derived system having the source located outdoors. ( Cengage Learnng 2012)

required to be szed l1 accordance with 250.122. See Figure 2-65(A). I Section 25032(q)(2)(b) provides the rules for the installation of ai. feeder from an ungrounded system that does not have overcurrent protecton where the conductorsloriginate. See Figure 2-65(8). By reference to 25rJ.30(B), a grounding electrode conductor connecti0r: to the rne:allic e~closures of the separately depved system 1S requircd, The

grounding electrode conductor is sized by going to Table 250.66, using the size of the derived ungrounded conductor. In addition, a supply-side bonding jumper is required from the source of the separately derived systern to the first disconnecting means. Because an overcurrent protective device is 110tlocated where the conductors originate, the sizc of rhe supply-side bonding jumper is also determined by reference to Table 250.66. The size of

UNIT 2

System Grounding

~ 'L1.7

the supply-side bond~nf jump~r rnust not be sm~ler than 12.5% of .the clr9ular mil area of the. denved conductors if they are Ifrger than 11O-kcmil copper ar 1750-kcmi1 aluminum. Though not covered in Article 250, be sure you comply with. the ~vefCUITent protection rule ~r transformers m Articl 450 and for conductors in Article 240.

250.34 PORTABLE ANO VEHICLE-MOUNTED GENERATORS

250.34(A) Portable Generators The Requirements: The frame of a portable generator is not required to be connected to a grounding electrode, as defined in 250.52 for a system supplied by the generator under the following conditions: 1. The generator supplies only equipment mounted on the generator, cord-and-plugconnected equipment through receptacles mounted on the generator, or both, and 2. The normally non-current-carrying metal parts of equipment and the receptac1e terrninal(s) for the connecton to the equipment grounding conductor are connected to the generator frame.

250.32(E) GroJnding Electrode Conductor

r

I '

The Requirement: Ihe size of the grounding electrode conductor to Lhe grounding electrode(s) must not be smaller than gfven in 250.66, based on the
largest ungrounded supply conductor to the second or additional building or structure. The installation of the grounding electrode must comply with Part JIl of Article 250.

Discussion: As indica~ed, the size of the grounding

electrode conductor based on 250.66 rather than ou 250.122. The rule f~r using 250.66 1S that the size af the grounding electrode conductor is based on the s.ize of tl~e ~eeder co~ductors that supply. the a?dtional building or structure, not on the ratmg ot the overcurrent protecti ve l device on the supply side of the feeder. See Figure j 2-66.

Discussion: As illustrated in Figure 2-67, the system neutral and the equipment grounding conductor 01 a

iJ

n
: 1

IPanetboard at
separata building \

, -

- . , -1

:1

Frame not requred to be !111 connected to grounding :'-1

J condjtjon~ .lI
---PhaseA--.,....."" === Neutraj==#~+~
--=

elactrode under specflc _ _.

.1

l' -:< 1

r---~/l
L-

/1

11

Phase B--~-.J/ Equipment Ground

Size of wounding electrode conductor from 250.66 based on

size of uhgrounde conductor ,-~

~,

r! /f{N'? 2;J.d
. __

fiGURE 2-66

Size of grounding electrode

2012)

canductor at ssparate bulding ar structure,

':'~'::~te:::,e =:

FIGURE 2-67 Grounding and bonding requirements for portable generators, 250.34(A). ( Cengage Learning 2012)

1181

UNIT 2 Syste", Groundinq

portable generator are required to be bonded to the trame 01' the generaron Without the connection between the ~eut~al and,~1e eqUi~me?t .. groundiI~f!; cou.ductor, a circuit woui not exist for current rrom a line-to-ground fault to return to its source. Keep in rnind that all equipme t must comply with 250.4(A) by providing an Cffecttoe ground-fault return path. The NEC no longer refers to the frame of the generator as serving a the grounding electrode for the system produced . y the generator. This section previously stated, frame of a portable generator shall not be requir d to be grounded and shall be permitted to .serve as the groundi~1.g ~lectrode f~)r a systern supplied by the generator.''i' The present lan-

or structure wiring system, the portable generator will be connected to the premises or

structure grounding electrode for its ground

reference, "4. Portable generators used other than to power building or structure wiring systems are intended to be connected to ground if required by the NECY

"Tlr~

The designation as a separately derived system requires the neutral anel equipment grounding cOlld:\lctorbe bnded to tile rrame 01 tne generator
and the transfer equipment to switch ali conductors other than the equipment grounding conductor. This designation and switching arrangement prevents the neutral from being in parallel, as it is required to oe "",,'l\c'neu 'm \.ne uansier equipment. The neutral or frame of the portable generator is not required to be connected to a grounding electrode 80 long as ali power loads are supplied frorn reeeptacles mounted on the generator. Because the neutra! and equipment grounding conductor are connected [C the trame as required in 250.34(C), overcurrent protec. tion provided on lhe generator will funetion correctlx . Figure 2-68 shows fi type of transfer equipment that has often been \nst .. ll'Alto y\y.j\d' \\,J\ \\l\(. ~\.\p})h of a portion of a prernises wiring system by a flexibl~ cord frorn a portable 01' vehicJe-mounted generator, The flanged inlet receptacle provdes for the flexible cord connecton. Circuits to be supplied have been wired through the transfer equipment and are selected by the rocker~type switches. The drawing in lhe middle of Figure 2-68 shows the typical circut where lhe portable or vehiclemounted generator is connected to the prernises wiring systern through this transfer equiprnent, Because the equipment grounding conductor and the neutra! are connected together the servire equipment and at the generator, neutral currenr will be shared by the equipment grounding conductor. The Iower photo shows the inside of the transfer equipment shown in the upper photo, As can be seen. the neutral conductor is not switched. The solid connection in the transfer equiprnent is noncompliant with the UL 2201 Safety Standard.

gu.. ag.~ e is a te~.hnical. Cflo. rre"".,ti?n.to. the.. C. 'ode becu. u .... s.. e ... the frarne 01 the gen fator 18 not grounded UllJeSS
an eartn connection is made through one or more grounding electro~e1' .G~ounding-type receptacles and ground-fault Cll'fU1t~1l1terrupter receptacles are typically installed o~ portable generators for suppIy of equipmem throug, flexible cords. UL Safety St<:U1Qurd 2201 for portable generat.. or~

to rhe \C\ mng syster ot a bmldmg or structure be considered a separately derived svsrem, The auide cwrd ,VrCN\ 1'.'C\C\d'S, '~\ll'& c't\\e.go):ycovers 'mt~ma)combus~l~n-e~gine-qrive..~ generators rated 15 kW 01' Iess, 2;:,0 V or Ies], which are provided only with receptacle Ot le,ts lhe ac output circuits. The generators may mc~rporate alternating- or direct-

re.~ .. :l. ~~r ... ~s. that

.POlf~ab~e ..-.2"c.ne.,.ra ..tors ..

.)f

c0l1.nectioP4

10r

CUH.e ... n.t. g.ener.. ato.r seftions battery-charging circ its.

fo.r. 1'-.'::UPPIYi.l1generg.y.

to

generator is used to suppIv a b~lIdi.n,gor structure riring ~ystem: 1, lhe generator s ccnsidered a separately derived system in accordance with ANS1INFPA 70, National El ctrical Code (NEC). "2, The generator through perrna equiprnent that than the equipn is iutended to be connected ently installed Iisted transfer switches all conductors other ent grounding condnctor.

"When a portabl

ai

"3. The frame of a listed generator s connected to

the equipment~~rounding conductor and the groun?ed (neutralJ conductor of the generatOL When properIy connected to a premises
*Heprinted wirh permission from NFP A 70-2011.

U Reprinted from lhe White Book with pennissiol1 from Underwriters Laboratories Inc.@ Copyright 2010 Underwrilers

Laboratories Inc.@.

UNIT 2 System Grounding

~ 19

250.34(8) Vehicle-Mounted Generators The Requirements: The frame of a vehicle and the
generator frame are nor required to be connected to a grounding electrode as defined in 250.52 for ti system supplied by a generator located on the vehicle under the followiug conditions: 1. The frarne of the generator is bonded to the

vehicle trame, and

2. The generator supplies 0111y equipment located on the vehicle or cord-and-plug-connected equipment through receptacles mounted on the vehicle, 01' both equipment located on the vehicle and cord-and-plug-connected equipment through receptacles mounted on the vehicle or on the generator, and 3. The normally non-current-carrying metal parts of equipment and the receptacle terminalts) for the connection to the equipment groundPortable or vehic!e-mounted generator

ing conductor are connected to the generator frame.

Discussion: The rules for using the electrical systern produced by a vehicle-rnounted generator without connecting t to a grounding electrode driven into the earth are similar to those for a portable generator (see

Figure 2-69). As with the portable generator, ir is important that the equipment grounding conductor and
the system neutral be connected together and bondcd

Frame of vehicle and generator not required to be connected to grounding electrode under specific conditions.

View of back of transt r equpment n upper photo. Note tnat the neutral I not switched to prevent a paralel path for neutrl current. I

FIGURE 2-68 conne~tion of portable or vehiclemounted generator to prernises wiring svstem. ( Cenga~ Leaming 2012)

FIGURE 2-69 Groundinq of vehicle-mounted generators, 250.34(8). (@CengageLeaming2012)

_~, __ J2Q_l

s.

UNIT 2

System Groundinq

to lhe generator frame. ~e generator frame is required to be bonded to Lhe lehide frame, Note that these rules apply only whe~e me generator supplies on1y equipment located on the vehicle or cord-and-plugconnected equipment ough receptacles mounted on the vehicle, or both eqripment located on the vehicle and cord-and-plug-cormected equipment through receptacles mounted on lhe vehicle or on the generator. These rules do not appJJvwhere the generator 1S permanently installed and supplies premises wiring systems tllroUgh. a transfer S"V~lCh or transfer equiPme.nt, See 250.35 for the rules for grounding and bonding generators that are permane I tlv zenerators installed, These ~ :rre requir~~ to be grou,ded an~ bon~ed under mies m 250.30 11 they are a jeparatelY denved system.

"(B) Nonseparately

Derived System, If the gen-

erator is installed as a nonseparately derived system, and overcurrent protection is not integral with the generator assembly, a supply-side bonding jumper shall be installed between the generator equipment grounding terminal and the equipment grounding terminal, bar, or bus of the disconnecting mean(s).lt shall be sized in accordance with 250. 102( C} based on the size of the conductors supplied by the generator.'" See Figure 2-69.

me

Discussion: These requirements ensure an effective ground-fault retum path is provided for permanenr
generator installations. Some manufacturers produce generators that have the overcurrent devices mounted on the generator, Others supply the generator with overcurrent protection as an accessory that is mounted remete from the generator, In some cases, the installer provides the overcurrent protection that may be mounted adjacent to or some distance from the generator, The rule in 250.35(.4) requires compliance with 250.30 if the system provided by the permanent1y installed generator is a separately derived system. Separately derived systems are covered in the Introduction to Grounding and Bonding and in 250.30 of this book. As indicated in Figure 2-70, the groundfault retum path (circuit) when the transfer switch is in the normal position s over the equipment grounding conductor(s) to the service and returns to the utility source over the grounded system conductor, Important rules are provided in 25035(B) if the system supplied by the permanently installed generator is not separately derived, This means that the neutral is no! switched in transfer equipment. The rules change depending ou where the overcurrent device for the supplied conductors is located. I1'the overcurrent device is located remete from the generator, a properly sized supply-side bonding jumper is required. The size ofthe supply-side bonding jumper is determined by reference to Table 250.66, based on

250.34(C) GrotUnded Conductor

Bonding

The Requirement: A system conductor that is required to be groundec by 250.26 must be connected
to the ~. zenerator framI if the ~ aenerator is a compo-

nent of a separately d,r ved systern,

Discussion: This applies to both portable and vehicle-mounted gen,rators. It ensures that a bonding jumper is connectqd between the system conductor that is required td be grounded by 250.26 and the generator frame ~hen lhe generator is used as a component of a seprrately derived system, Wthout the bonding jum~er in place, a return path for ground-fault current not established.

ru11

il~

If the g~nerator is used as a.compo~ent

arately derived systern, compliance rules set forth in 250. O is required.

of a sep-

with all of the

.'250.3

JNS.TALLED~

PERMANENTL Y EN.ERATORS

The Requirement: A Fonductor that provides an e1'fective ground-fault durrent path s required to be installed with the supply conductors from a permanently installed generftor(s) to the first disconnecting meanis) in accordfnce with (A) or (B).

the size of the ungrounded conductors.

If the overcurrent device is located at lhe generator, an equipment groundng conductor 01' equipment grounding jumper is required that is determined from Table 250.122, based on the rating of the overcurrent

"(A) Separately Derfved System. If the gener.ator

is installed as a feparately derived systern, the requirernents in QSO.30 must be complied with.
*Reprnted with permission from NFPA 70-201 1,

device.
Section 250.35(B)( J) covers bonding between the generator and the first overcurrent device, As

UNIT 2

System

Grounding

Electrca\ system

Electrical system

= c:J

Grounding e!ectrode

~i~~t~j
", ... " ,",.. Grounding electrode

li = Ground-fault
.&.
enclosure

current with transfer switch c!osed to service

= Neutral isolated from

(Wiring methods not shown)

Electrical system

Electrical system

JL
= ca

'I

1 Grounding electrode

.&
FIGURE 2-70

= Ground-fault current wth transfer

switch closed to generator

= Neutral iso!ated from

enclosure
(Wiring methods not snown) Grounding and bonding connections for separately derived system supplied by permanently (@CengageLearnng2012)

installed qsnerators with the system bonding jumper a the source, 250.35(8)(1).

___

~Z2'

UNIT 2

SystJm

Grounding

Transfer switch

Generator

.// I

r------'/~

! Bonding
\~
>~::J
~~~

I generator

I removed

jumper 1 at I

Gro~nding of electrical system at service equi~ment

D '" Ground-fault
U

current with transter switch closed to service

isolated trom

&. = Neutra!

enelosure

Service

Transfer switch

Generator

r-I

B-o-n-d-in-g-J~'umper I
ai

,L

I generator

I removed

1
current with transfer

li ::: Ground-fauit
.& = Neutral
FIGURE 2-71

swltch closed to generator

isolated trem enclosure

Grouncling and bonding connections for nonseparately derived system with the transfer switch connected to the service and the permanently installed generator, 250.35(8)(2). ( Cengage Learning 2012)

UNIT 2 Systern Groundng

1_23

shown in Figure 2-7i, t1tis bonding .i umper is sized frorn Table 260,66 on the basis of the size of the supply conductors. BYI reference to 250.102(C), requirernents are includd for installation of supply . , g1 I ll 1 con d uctors III a s.m e cewa?,.' 0:' m re raceways or cables. See the d SCUSSlOn m 2)O ..JO(A.)( 1) of this book for sizing the s pply-side bondingjumpers. When the transfer switch 18 n the generator posmon, shown in Figure 2-71, the ground- fault rcrum path (circuit) is over the equipment grounding conductorts) to the servi ce, over lhe main bonding jumper to the neutral, <li d returns to the generator source over the grounded system conductor.

10w value are permitted to be installed for 3-phase ac systems of 480 volts to J 000 volts if all the following conditions are met: 1. The conditions of maintenance and supervision ensure that only qualified persons service the installation. 2, Ground dctectors are instalied on the system. 3, Line-to-neutral loads are not served.

r~.

?a:~a

High-impedance grounded neutral systems are required to comply with the provisions of 250.36(.4) through (G). Discussion:
High-impedance grounded neutral systems are installed to increase system operational reliability and to reduce the downtime caused by outages from line-to-ground faults. See Figure 2-72 for the principles of operation. High-impedance grounded neutral systems have all of the advantages of au ungrounded system in that the first ground fault will not cause an overcurrcnt protective device to operare, but they do not have the disadvantages associated with ungrounded systems. These disadvantages include the possibility of transient overvoltages OIl ungrounded systems caused by sputtering or intermittent ground faults. Recall that the first ground fault 011 an ungrounded systern simply grounds the system. Most of these first ground

111e bonding jumpertat the ge.nerator mus.t be removed when the systern is not separately derived, If the bonding jumper 18 lil t removed, the neutral will be connected to grounded equipment at two locarions, and neutra! current wmlftow over conductive paths such as metal conduit, cable trays, and metal piping.

Here's How: Let's assume a pennanently installed generator has fr.1 800-ampere overcurrent device that isinstalled r motely from the generator. Two 600-kcmil copper conductors are installed in ~arallel raceways from,tre ge~erator t~ the, distrib~uon panelboard. The s:te of _tne_bonding !Umpel.' iS required to comply with 25U,1U2(C). This section provides that where bo~ding jumpers are installed in parallel raceways, they are to be sized accordng to Table 250.66. Th~s table requires the bonding jumper in each l'acewa~ to be not smaller than 110 AWG. This ensures th bonding jumpers are adequate to carry fault CUlT nt back to the source,
The bondn~ j~mPlr. on the load side of the overcurrent device 15 required to be not smaller than ~e. equipment. g~oundi~g .conductor. As sh~wn in FIgure 2-71, this is determined from Table 2)0.122, based on the rating of the overcurrent device whcre lhe feeder originares,

250.36 HIGHIMPEDANCE ROUNDED NEUTRAL SY TEMS

The Requirements: High-impedance
neutral systerns in \Vhi]h a grounding grounded impedance,
FIGURE 2-72

High-impedance grounded neutrai svstems, 250.36. (@CengageLeaming2012)

usually a resistor, limits he ground ..fault current to a

1.24_,

UNIT 2

Svstem Grounding

taults, however, are npt bo1ted or solid faults but are sputtering ar inter nittent faults, because Iittle current flows in the fi st ground fault. As a result, transient overvoltages of several times the system voltage can occur, The e transient overvoltages can exceecl the clielectric rithstand rating of conductors. (See the discussion in 250.122 for additional ~t.orn:at~n0r: the \.vtilstand rating of condl~ctors.) Tne windings m motots and transformers often are vulnerable to transie~t overvoltages, which ean lead to prematuro failure. The three condit101s m 2::;0.36 must be complied with before a facility quaifies to have a hig~1~impedance grounded neutral ystem. These conditions are
the following: 1. The conditions of maintenance and supervision ensure that dnly qualified persons service

250.36(A) Grounding Impedance

Location The Requirements: The grounding irnpedance is required to be installed between the grounding electrode conductor and the system neutral point, Where a neutra1 point is not available, the grounding impedance must be installed between the grounding electrode conductor and the neutra! point derived from a grounding transformer. Discussion: As illustrated in Figure 2-69, the

grounding impedance is installed between the neutral 01' grounded conductor and the grounding electrode conductor. As a result, the only path for ground-fault currents to take is through the grounding impedance. This grounding impedance limits the current, 80 an overcurrent device will not operate, and the equip-

the installation.1 Discussion: This requ,rement appears in many 10cations in the Code. Thf management of the facility has the obligation to epsme that experienced peopIe who are properly trained rnaintain the electrical system. See the de nition of qualified person in

ment can continue to perform its function.

250.36(8) Grounded System

Conductor The Requirements: The grounded system conductor from the neutra} point of the transformer or generator to its connection point to the grounding impedance is required to be fully insulated. The grounded system conductor must have an ampacity of not less than the maximum current ratng of the grounding impedance and must not be smaller than 8 AWG copper or 6 AWG aluminum ar copper-clad
aluminum.

Article 100. 2. Ground detectors are installed on the system,

Discussion: The Code f' . silent on the type 01' sophistication of ground dete tion system that is required. No guidance is provide on how the ground detection system is required to o erate. Sophisticated ground detection equipment that is listed is available. Local and remo te annunciatio is available. Typically, for industrial occupancies, ground detection systems will sound an alarm or operare an indicatinglarnp, ar both, to indicate a gr und fault nas occurred. The purpose of the alarm is to alert maintenance person-

nel so the first ground ffuIt can be repaired before a second ground fault oc~llfS. 3. Line-to-neutrallotds are not served.

Discussion: Line-to-neutral loads are not perrnitted

to be served, because tl:f system is designed to lirnit the path for fault currenIf to a single path through the grounding resstor. Thse systems typically serve large industrial plants and serve motor loads or other
phase-to-phase loads.

Discussion: The rating of the impedance device for the high-impedance grounded neutral system will usually Iimit the current to not more than 10 amperes. Therefore, the required minimum sizing of the grounded conductor is related not to its currentcarrying ability but to providing a conductor that is large enough to withstand the physical or rnechanical stress ncurred in installation and maintenance of the system. The conductor is specifically required to be insulated, This rule modifies the provision in 230.41 that permits uninsulated service-entrance conductors under certain conditions. This insulation ensures a controlled return path for fault current through the impedance device.

UNIT 2 System Groundng

:12.5

250.36(C) System Grounding Connection The Requirement: The ~ystem is not permitted to be
connected to ground except through the grounding mpedance.
DiSCUSSWIl:

250.36(D) Neutral Point to Grounding Impedance Conductor Routing The Requirement: The conductor connecting the neutral point of the transformer ar generator to the grounding impedance is permitted to be installed in a separate raceway from the ungrounded conductors. It is not required to run this conductor with the phase conductors to the first system disconnecting means 01' overcurrent device. Discussion: This requirement accommodates normal practice in industry to install the impedance
device outside of the enclosure for the overcurrent protection. Because the impedance device often is a resistor, heat 18 produced as current flows through it. Locating the resistor in a ventilated enclosure outside the cabinet for the overcurrent protection is stanclard industry practice.

mentioned, the connection of the grounded conductor to ground through the impedance device limits fhe fault current that can flow in the first ground fault (~ee Figure 2-73). This limitation helps ensure system and operational reliability. The second ground ault, if it occurs on a different phase from the firs~ one, will result I~ a pha~eto-phase fault, and an overcurrent protecnve device , will opera te to take the raUlted circuit off the line.

As previously

Not : The impedance is normally selected to li~1itthe ground-fault current to a val~~ s1ig9tly. greater than 01' equal to the capacinvc chrging current of the system. This value of ip1pedance will also limit transient overvoltages to safe values. For guidance, refer to driteria for Iimiting transient overvo1tages ANSIJIEEE 142-1991, Recommended Practice for Grounding of Industrial and cotercial Power Systerns.

Iuformatonal

250.36(E) Equipment ..Jumper

Bonding

iE

The Requirement: The equipment bonding jumper (the connection between the equipment grounding conductors and the grounding impedance) is required to be an unspliced conductor run from the first system disconnecting means or overcurrent device to the grounded side of the grounding impedance, Discussion: The equipment bondingjumperruns
from the service cabinet to the load side of the grounding irnpedance (see Figure 2-74). Specific sizing requirements are in 250.36(G).

250.36(F) Grounding Conductor Location

Electrode

The Requirement: The grounding electrode conduetor is required to be attached at any point from the grounded side of the grounding impedance to the equipment grounding connection at the service equiprnent or first system disconnecting means.
FIGURE 2-73
Contro led ground-fault return path in high-impedance ~rounded neutra I systems, 250.36. ( Ce gage Leaming 2012)

Discussion: lhe grounding eleetrode conductor usually 1S connected either at the service equipment or at the
grounding impedance. Either location is acceptable; the choice is a matter of design or engineering judgment,

r 480 to
/

000 volt systenj1

-jb/ 1/

F~gffi,c"""j.l
i

1. Where the grounding electrode conductor connection is made at grounding impedance, the equipment bonding jumper must be sized in accordance with 250.66, based on the size of the service entrance conductors for a service or the derived phase conductors for a separately derived

me

system.
2. Where the groundng electrode conductor is connected at the first system disconnecting means or overcurrent device, the equipment bonding jumper 18 required to be sized the same as the neutral conducror in 250.36(B).

Discussion: As illustrated in Figure 2-75, the point

FIGURE 2-74

Unspliced bonding jumper for hiqhimpedance grOundedlneutral systems, 250.36(E}. t L 2012)

of connection

canal.

ming

of the grounding electrode conductor to the systern detennines the mmimum size of

the equipment bonding jumper. If the grounding electrode conductor 18 connected at the grounding
impedance, the bonding jumper must be the same size as the grounding electrode conductor, as determined from 250.66. If the grounding electrode conductor is connected at the first system disconnecting means ar overcurrent device, the bonding jumper is sized the same as the neutral conductor,

250.36(G) EQUirment Jumper Size

Bonding

The Requirement: Th equipment bonding jumper must be sized in accordance with (J) ar (2). I

-=rrxu
{/

I(
.

il
tl
t1
1
Impedance ~evice i
f

!~
~ ~
"~--:~

1I ~&::=====::::!:!

, ~I Grounding
~
'"

! I ~ondfi1gjumpsr
.. 7

IOloetrodo
!

conductor

i
i
!

l"ze"

I ~onding ju~per

por 250.68

Isized same as
!

I1

neutra!

FIGURE 2-75

Size of I quipment bonding jumper for high-impedance grounded neutral svstem, 250.36(G). ( Cengage Learning 2012)

UNIT 2

Svstem Grounding

12'1'~_._J

1. Which of the following electrical systemsis not required to be grounded? a. 120-vo1, l-phase, 2-wre b. 120/240 volt, l-phase, 3-wire c. 208Y/120-volt, 3-phase, 4-wre, wye-connected d. 240-vol, 3-phase, 3-wire, delta-connected 2. Which of

t1e following electrical systems is most

likely to be required to be grounded?

a. 480Y/277-volt, 3-phase, 3-wre, wye-connected b. 480Yl2f7-volt, c. 600Y3 3-phase, 4-\vire, wye-connected -volt, 3-phase, 3-wire, wye-connected

d. 480-v01, 3-phase, 3-wire, delta-connected 3. Which of the following electrical systems is likely to have a conductor with a higher voltage to tround? a. 120/24~-volt, l-phase, 3-\vire b. 208Y/120-volt, 3-phase, 4-wire c. 120/240-volt, 3-phase, 4-wire d. 480Y/2f7-volt, a. b. c. 3-phase, 4-wire 4. Which of t ie followng electrical systems i8 not likely to require a ground detector? 7-vo1t, 3-phase, 3-wire, wye-connected 7-volt, 3-phase, -l-wire, wye-connected -volt, 3-phase, 3-wire, wye-connected

d. 480-volt, 3-phase, 3-wll:e, delta-connected 5. WI1ch of fhe following statements about deterrnining when a systern is separately derived is most accurate? a. There

i$ no bonding jurnper

from the secondary 01' the transformer to the enclosure.

b. A bon~ng jurnper is installed from the transformer secondary to the enclosure. c. A bonding jumper is not installed from the primary to the secondary of the tnmsfotrner. d. A bonding jumper 1S not installed from the midpoint of the generator windings to the cas!, 6. Which of Te following groups of systems is required to be grounded? a. Electridal systems used exclusively to supply industrial electric furnaces for meltin~-Lrefining, tempering, and the like b, Separately derived systerns used exclusively for rectifiers that supply only adjustable-sPfed industrial drives c. Separately derived systems supplied by transformers that have a primary vo1tage rating less than 1000 volts for control circuits d. High-i
I

pedance grounded neutral systems as specified in 250.36

UNIT 2

System

Groundng

129

13. Electrical s.;stems that are permitted to be installed as ungrounded are usually not grounded 80 the first ground fault on the system will not result in operation of an overcurrent device.

a. Tme
b. False 14. Ungroundeq electrical systems with conductors installed in grounded metal raceways and enclosures a. have no ioltage to ground. b. have an jPpl'oximate half system voltage to ground. c. present

'0
br

shock hazard to personnel.

d. cannot become zrounded as there is no connection to the around rodo the p;emises can choose whether the fol1own;circuits are grounded or 15. The owner remain un~unded: a crane that operares over combustible fibers, circuits in inhalation anesthetizi g locations of hospitals, and 15-vo1t circuits for swimming poollighting derived f1'O a transformer. a. True

b. False
16. Rather tha~ making a groundng connection in each service disconnecting means for services that are double-ended, it is permitted to make a single grounding electrode connectionlat the tie point for the services.

a. Tme
b. Fa1se l7. The purpose behind permitting the grounding electrode connection to be made at the equipment b-ounding conductor terminal bar of the service rather than to the neutral is to provide convenient connection point sornetimes outside the service disconnecting means enc BUfe.

a. True
b. False 18. lf the electrical system is grounded at the utility supply transformer, it is the ground~d conductor be run to and be connected to the service disconnect. a. optional, based on the design of the electrical engineer, b. manda+ry, based on NEC rules in Article 25~), 19. The minimum size of the grounded service-entrance conductor is a. not smql1er than the size of the grounding electrode. b. optionai based on the design of the electrical engineer. 20. The minir1um size of the grounded conductor for a 3-phase, 3-wire, corner-grounded, delta connected service is
I

that

a. not smaller than the required grounding electrode conductor. b. no! sm~IIerthan a neutral for a 3-phase, wye-connected system orthe same ampacity.

"130'

UN\T 2

System Grounding

c. not

,taner

than the ungrounded service conductors,

d. not s~ecified as a grounded conductor is not required. 21. The minimum size 01'a main bonding jumper that is fumished by the manufacturer for listed senvice equipment a. is permitted to be installed without calculation of proper size. b. is only permitted to be installed if size is adequate according to NEC rules. 22. The systtm bonding jumper for a system that supplies more than one disconnecting means is I sized a. based ou the full-load current rating of the transformer secondary windings. b. baseJ on the total circular mil area of the deri ved ungrounded conductors.

23. Because reparatel~ derived ~ystems are not a s.ervic~, it is generaJJy pe~mitted to ground
the neutral at multiple locations on the load side of rhe separately denved system, a. True I b. False

__12~L,

:; .

UNIT 2

SystB. Grounding

7. Which 01'~ e following categories of cireuits or systems is required to be grounded? a.

c~rcU1.:4

~\)f e~~ctric cranes 111

operating over com~~l~tible fibers in Class

m locations

b. Circuits

critical care areas of health care facilities

c. CirCui~t for equipment within the electrolytic cell working zone in aluminum refinenps d. Secondarv circuits of 30-volt lighting svstems 8. Which of ~~ following locations 18 not permtted to be used to connect the grounding electrode rlt the servire equipment? a. At the Iweatherhead where the service drop is connected to conducfors

rue

service-entrance

b. In the meter socket enclosure supplied by an underground service lateral c. In a Wie\vay from the metering equipment to the service equipment d, In a fe der pane! if immediately adjacent to the service equipment 9. A groundi g connection to the grounded (neutral) conductor is not permitted at which of followinz Iocations?
01'

the

for

a. SeparaieIy dedved~systems
b. separa{e buildings supplied by a feeder

c. A new branch circuit for an electric range

d. Meters on the load side of the service disconnecting means but Iocated near the service 10. Which of ~he following statements about a main bonding jumper is not true? a. Ir is pejrnitted to consist of a wire, a busbar, or a screw. b.

u tYPiCl'

lly is located in each section of a multisection switchboard. e bare insulated.

c. It prov des the essential path for ground-fault current to return to the source.
d. It may
C1[

11. If 240-v01 delta connected systems are not grounded, a. the volJage to zround is considered 240 volts. b, the nsthl;ati01;'is not in compliance with the NEC. c. lhe

SY1em is required lo be grounded.

d, a grou Iding electrode for the equipment is not required. 17 Which of t e following statements about ground detectors for systerns that are permitted to ope te ungrounded is not true? a. Groun b, Groun detectors are permitted to consist of a system of lamps (Iight bulbs). detectors are intended to indicare that one phase has becorne grounded.

c. detectors are available as Iisted equipment. d. Grounc detectors must report the occurrence to a remete Iocation.