Gounding Service Panel - The Best Method?

[linespike]

Can I run my #4 copper grounding wire from the service panel in an outbuilding to the grounding rods outside:

A) through the same 1 1/4 PVC conduit providing the power? OR ...
B) does it need to be run independently?

If B) Can it be run:

C) directly through the wall near the floor and outside without conduit? OR ...
D) through 1/2" PVC conduit, adjacent to the 1 1/4" power conduit?

What is the best method you would suggest?


Thank you kindly in advance,

Richard Linespike

 

[hbiss]

Re: Gounding Service Panel - The Best Method?

Don't know how you could run it in the same conduit as the feeder into the building.

That said either C or D is fine.

-Hal

 

[bphgravity]

Re: Gounding Service Panel - The Best Method?

I personally like "D". If there is exposure to severe physical damage, the conductor will have to be protected, otherwise "C" will do just as well.

I suppose if the incoming feeder is a direct burial type such as UF or USE, and the conduit used to sleeve the cable from underground to the enclosure is used, I don't see anything preventing the "A" method from being used. I personally wouldn't practice this if the incoming is a service entrance, but I don't see any problems if they are feeders or branch circuits.

 

[pierre]

Re: Gounding Service Panel - The Best Method?

230.7 Exception No.1 permits grounding conductors to be installed with the service conductors. If the conductors you are feeding the panel with are service conductors, yes you can install the grounding conductor with the service conductors.
Otherwise I, like Bryan, like "D" method best, but "c" can be used in most instances as well.

Pierre

[ November 07, 2004, 11:16 AM: Message edited by: pierre ]

 

[a.wayne3@verizon.net]

Re: Gounding Service Panel - The Best Method?

C is easy cheap and code compliant,bet bet for my $

 

[linespike]

Re: Gounding Service Panel - The Best Method?

I knew I came to the right place. Thank you all for your assistance.

Richard Linespike

 

[scwirenut]

Re: Gounding Service Panel - The Best Method?

#6 is the maximum size required for ground rods, if its the sole connection. reguardless of sevice size.