People often feel safer when residing in grounded buildings which are installed with the right earthing systems. The systems are essential in giving safety to dwellers and electronic devices by providing a safer path for the colossal current from a lightning strike or even from an over-voltage system. Therefore, the earthing systems necessitate for regular ground testing exercises. They are aimed at affirming that the earth resistance does not increase and also to ensure that the systems are in good condition.
Before technological advancement, the end-user embraced the use of test instruments and probes. They are used to first inject a current into the earth soil that lied in between the test electrode and control probe. This was ensured by taking measurements on voltage drop that was caused by the soil up to a set point. Then the experts would use Ohm Law to make computation that will determine the fall or rise in earth resistance.
As technology advanced, the instruments and procedure previously used were standardized to devise the two common methods. They came through alternations that were focused on dealing with specific shortcomings which were anciently rampant. The modifications have also led to ease of use and improved functionality of grounding systems. However, the two approaches make use of similar apparatus which are effective in enhancing safety, accuracy, and convenience.
The first approach is the fall-of-potential method. It requires complete isolation from the power utility. It also includes the removal of any neutral or ground connections that extends outside the grounding system. This procedure suits to be the most suitable test for extremely large earthing systems. It also scores awesomely for small electrodes. It is, however, labor-intensive and time-consuming approach.
The other method is the clamp-on test. It is a convenient method that can be effectively performed under a powered system. It requires a connection between the power supply and the earthing system under test. The test is more accurate than the three-point test in small electrode regions, as it calculates the frequencies in a kilohertz range.
Accurate test results require the use of a correct approach and the right instruments. This is usually focused on improving the accuracy in results garnered. It also aims at making the testing process faster and simpler. Other vitiating factors that can affect the findings should be harmonized appropriately. For example, a heavy downpour can affect the resistance of the ground under the test.
Moreover, with technological advancement, a refined procedure has been invented to produce more convincing and accurate results. They are computerized and thus, do not necessarily need further analysis and calculations. In addition, they do not also need one to de-energize or isolate any conductor from the grounding system being tested.
Thus, the testing procedures have undergone a series of evolution phases with an unobstructed focus of enhancing accuracy and convenience. This has also been as a result of advancement in instruments used to carry out the tests. It is a pivotal activity that aids in improving the overall functionality and safety of earthing systems.
Before technological advancement, the end-user embraced the use of test instruments and probes. They are used to first inject a current into the earth soil that lied in between the test electrode and control probe. This was ensured by taking measurements on voltage drop that was caused by the soil up to a set point. Then the experts would use Ohm Law to make computation that will determine the fall or rise in earth resistance.
As technology advanced, the instruments and procedure previously used were standardized to devise the two common methods. They came through alternations that were focused on dealing with specific shortcomings which were anciently rampant. The modifications have also led to ease of use and improved functionality of grounding systems. However, the two approaches make use of similar apparatus which are effective in enhancing safety, accuracy, and convenience.
The first approach is the fall-of-potential method. It requires complete isolation from the power utility. It also includes the removal of any neutral or ground connections that extends outside the grounding system. This procedure suits to be the most suitable test for extremely large earthing systems. It also scores awesomely for small electrodes. It is, however, labor-intensive and time-consuming approach.
The other method is the clamp-on test. It is a convenient method that can be effectively performed under a powered system. It requires a connection between the power supply and the earthing system under test. The test is more accurate than the three-point test in small electrode regions, as it calculates the frequencies in a kilohertz range.
Accurate test results require the use of a correct approach and the right instruments. This is usually focused on improving the accuracy in results garnered. It also aims at making the testing process faster and simpler. Other vitiating factors that can affect the findings should be harmonized appropriately. For example, a heavy downpour can affect the resistance of the ground under the test.
Moreover, with technological advancement, a refined procedure has been invented to produce more convincing and accurate results. They are computerized and thus, do not necessarily need further analysis and calculations. In addition, they do not also need one to de-energize or isolate any conductor from the grounding system being tested.
Thus, the testing procedures have undergone a series of evolution phases with an unobstructed focus of enhancing accuracy and convenience. This has also been as a result of advancement in instruments used to carry out the tests. It is a pivotal activity that aids in improving the overall functionality and safety of earthing systems.
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