Installing
Electrical Grounds

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1-2. Installing Grounding Rods. Grounding rods are driven into the earth to a depth of at least 8 feet (Figure 1-7). This should reach the moisture level in most areas.

Figure 1-7. Depth of grounding rod.

Figure 1-7.   Depth of grounding rod.

a.   If rock is hit at less than 8 feet, the grounding rod can be driven at an angle but the angle cannot exceed 45 degrees (Figure 1-8).

Figure 1-8. Grounding rod driven at an angle

Figure 1-8.   Grounding rod driven at an angle

b.   A grounding rod can also be buried on top of rock in a trench that is 2 1/2 feet deep and 8 feet long (Figures 1-9 and 1-10).

Figure 1-9. Grounding rod buried on top of rock

Figure 1-9.   Grounding rod buried on top of rock

Figure 1-10. Cutting a trench

Figure 1-10.   Cutting a trench

c.   Ground clamps (Figure 1-11) hold the ground conductor and the grounding rod together without losing conductivity when exposed to weather and abuse. Ensure that the ground conductor is opposite to the screw-on clamp. The upper end of the grounding rod must be flush with or below ground level unless the connection is protected against physical damage.

Figure 1-11. Ground clamps

Figure 1-11.   Ground clamps
Content provider: U.S. Army, David L. Heiserman
Publisher: SweetHaven Publishing Services

Copyright © 2005, SweetHaven Publishing Services
All Rights Reserved.

Revised: April 19, 2005