Grounding is the process of removing the excess charge on an object by transferring the electrons between it and another object of considerable size. When a charged object is grounded, the electrons are transferred between the charged object and the ground which balances the excess charge.

Electrical circuits may be connected to the ground for numerous reasons. In mains driven equipment, Lightning Protection Manufacturers metal parts are connected to the ground to prevent user contact with hazardous voltage if electrical insulation fails. In some power transmission circuits, the earth itself can be used as a conductor of the circuit, saving the cost of installing an individual return conductor.

Many electrical product distributors would advise you to get your appliance grounded so that the charge in the object is well balanced.

Here are some recommended practices for grounding

1. Branch circuit grounding

Replace branch circuits without an equipment ground, with those that have equipment ground. Sensitive electronic equipment like computers, require a grounding conductor for suitable operation and for protection from static electricity and power fluctuations.

Failure to apply an grounding products suppliers equipment-grounding conductor may cause current flow through low-voltage control or communication circuits, which are prone to malfunction and damage.

2. Equipment grounding conductors

Use of equipment-grounding conductors in all circuits, without relying on a channel system alone for equipment grounding is always recommended. Use equipment-grounding conductors that are the same size as the phase conductors, in order to reduce circuit impedance and improve the dispersing time of overcurrent protective devices.

Take into consideration the installation of an equipment-grounding conductor of the wire type as a supplement to a conduit-only equipment-grounding conductor for especially sensitive equipment.

3. Ground rods

Multiple ground rods should be spaced out at a minimum distance twice the length of the rod. Install chemically enhanced ground rods in areas with poor soil conditions.

4. Ground ring

It is wise to install a copper ground ring, complemented by driven ground rods, for new commercial and industrial construction in addition to building steel, metal water piping and concrete-encased electrodes.

Install ground rings completely around buildings and structures. Where low, ground impedance is vital, complement the ground ring with ground rods at each corner of the building, and at the mid-point of every side of the structure.

5. Isolated grounding technique

Isolated grounding technique attempts to reduce the chances of noise entering the sensitive equipment through the appliance-grounding conductor. The grounding pin is not electrically connected to the device and therefore not connected to the metallic outlet box, which is why it is said to be 'isolated'.

6. Lightning protection system

Copper lightning protection systems may be high-class as compare to other metals in both corrosion and maintenance factors and should therefore be used.

Remember, a lightning protection system should always be connected to a high quality, vigorous grounding electrode system