How do GFCIs and Circuit Breakers Work?
In this episode, E&S Grounding Solutions President David Stockin discusses GFCIs and circuit breakers. Ground Fault Circuit Interruptor's (GFCI) or Residual Current Devices (RCD) are automatic circuit disconnection devices that measure the difference in amperage between the hot and the neutral conductors in a circuit. If a minimal current is detected it automatically disconnects power to the circuit. Where as traditional circuit breakers operate by sensing a temporary and very short...
9 Mar 20219min
What is a Fault Current Path?
In this episode, E&S Grounding Solutions President David Stocking explains what a fault current path is. The Equipment Grounding Conductor (EGC) or Protective Earth Conductor (PE) are mandatory conductors in both the NEC and IEC codes to ensure that circuit breakers and fuses will trip and protect the circuit. These conductors form an important part of the mandatory low impedance fault current path necessary for the proper functioning of automatic circuit disconnection devices. ...
2 Mar 20216min
Do Lightning Protection Systems Work?
In this episode, E&S Ground Solutions President David Stockin talks about lightning protection systems and whether or not they actually work. Lightning Protections Systems have been proven to be an effective method for protecting structures from lightning damage since the days of Benjamin Franklin. Providing an alternate and more conductive path to the earth for hazardous electrical lightning energy to travel on, typically in the form of a series of copper conductors, has been proven time...
23 Feb 20219min
What is the Sphere of Influence?
In this episode, E&S Ground Solutions President David Stockin talks about the sphere of influence, which is a scientific theory that estimates the volume of soil utilized by a given earthing / grounding electrode system. The diagonal (maximum) below-grade length of the electrode system is equal to the radius of its sphere-of-influence. Knowing the sphere of influence of a grounding / earthing system is useful for engineers and electricians when trying to improve the resistance...
12 Feb 20217min
