Grounding/earthing electrode studies. I

The paper details the effort to determine the adequacy of various methods of grounding/earthing electrodes installed in the alkaline, highly mineralized soil of the Las Vegas, Nevada area The grounding electrode testing program outlined has been prepared to address a number of questions relating to grounding [earthing] electrodes and soil conditions in the Clark County, Las Vegas Valley area. The results of the on going testing are presented. The object of the testing was to answer questions such as: Will the electrodes provide adequate safety from personnel electrification/electrocution standpoint? Will the electrodes provide safety of electrical system physical integrity? Can the soil adequately conduct the proper amount of current? What effect does moisture have on the soils and electrode? Will the resistance of the electrode change over time? Will an electrode, acceptable initially, be able to carry adequate current later? The paper discusses the problems of getting the project started and the cooperation that resulted from the electrical industry. Details of the test fields are presented and the test methods discussed. Preliminary results of the ongoing ten year test facilities are presented