Grounding and bonding are among the most important things to know about a power distribution system because they can keep ourselves and everybody around us safe while we're using electricity…For starters, there's the language…See if these terms make sense to you.
- Service – the conductors and equipment supplying power from the utility. We typically tie into a disconnect or company switch for service.
- Service Entrance – the point at which the supply conductors enter the building. That's typically where you'll find the disconnect.
- Main Bonding Jumper – a conductor that connects the neutral bus and the grounding bus. This is a very important part of the grounding system.
- Grounding Electrode – the ground rod, grounding plate, or other acceptable connection to earth. Volumes have been written about what you can and cannot use for a grounding or earthing electrode. Read up.
- Grounding Conductor – the green conductor (in the vast majority of our applications).
- Grounded Conductor – the white conductor (in the vast majority of our applications).
Of course, these are loose definitions and not legal-speak. They are designed to give you a basic understanding of the parts of a grounding system. To get a thorough understanding you really should read the codes and regulations. And afterwards, when you're thoroughly confused, check out a book called Soare's Book on Grounding and Bonding.
-Richard Cadena, from Focus on Fundamentals, PLSN, Oct. 2010
