Understand Pipe Earthing with Picture and Constructional Diagram

Here, in this article, we are going to understand Pipe Earthing with Pictures and Constructional Diagrams that will help us to easily understand the different parts, installation, etc.

Pipe earthing is also known as pipe grounding or pipe electrode. It is a comparatively complex type of grounding system even costlier than rod earthing. It is also used in electrical installations to ensure the safety of people, equipment, and structures. Pipe earthing systems tend to have better conductivity due to the larger surface area of the pipe compared to a rod.

In a pipe earthing system, a metal pipe is driven vertically into the ground and connected to the electrical system's grounding conductor. This pipe serves as an electrode that provides a direct path for fault currents to flow into the earth. The pipe itself is typically made of galvanized iron, copper, or other conductive materials that can effectively conduct electricity and resist corrosion.

Here, you can see the Pipe Earthing Picture which shows all the constructional parts.

Read Also: 

• What is Plate Earthing? Diagram, Applications, Procedure
• What is Common Grounding? Examples, Advantages
• What is Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter(GFCI)? Use
• Main Purpose of Using Neutral Grounding Resistor
• Difference between Earth Fault Relay and Earth Leakage Relay

Now, let's know the function of each part of the pipe earthing system shown in the above diagram,

Electrode Pipe

The electrode pipe is the central component of the pipe earthing system. It is usually around 2.5 to 3 meters in length. It is placed vertically into the ground and serves as the main conductor to establish a connection between the electrical system and the earth. Fault currents flow through the electrode pipe into the ground, ensuring the safety of people and equipment.

Layers of Charcoal and Salt

As you can see in the above diagram an alternative layer of Salt and charcoal is used. Charcoal and salt layers are placed around the electrode pipe in the backfilling process. Charcoal enhances the conductivity of the soil and helps in retaining moisture, while salt increases the soil's conductivity. These layers minimize the resistance between the electrode and the surrounding soil, ensuring efficient dissipation of fault currents.

Funnel

You can see in the above diagram that the funnel is placed on top of the electrode pipe. This is used to put water manually and rainwater into the pipe and the surrounding backfill materials. This helps maintain moisture levels around the electrode, which is important for maintaining low resistance and good conductivity in the grounding system.

Wire Mesh

The wire mesh is generally placed around the electrode pipe and inside the backfill to provide additional surface area for better contact with the surrounding soil. This enhances the overall conductivity of the grounding system.

GI Nuts

GI (Galvanized Iron) nuts are used to secure and fasten components together, such as connecting the earthing conductor to the electrode pipe. They ensure proper electrical connection and mechanical stability of the grounding system.

Earthing Conductor

The earthing conductor is a cable or wire that connects the electrode pipe to the electrical system's grounding conductor. It allows fault currents to flow from the electrical system into the ground through the electrode pipe, minimizing the risk of electric shock and equipment damage.

Cement Concrete

Cement concrete is often used to encase the electrode pipe and surrounding components. This provides protection against physical damage, helps maintain the position of the electrode pipe, and prevents moisture from directly contacting the electrode.

Cast Iron Cover

The cast iron cover is placed over the electrode pipe and the cement concrete. It acts as a protective cover to shield the electrode and other components from environmental factors, physical damage, and tampering. It also provides easy access for maintenance and inspections.

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