Ground Rods

[gsb]

I am the Dir. of Engineering for Penn-Union corp and was asked about a New Construction Code that allows the use of Rebar as a ground rod in earth. I've been in the electrical connector and grounding business for 30+ years, follow the NEC. Know of copper clad, galvanized and stainless steel, use of rebar as grounding in concrete, but not in earth. Can someone comment.

 

[pierre]

Re: Ground Rods

Rebar is not permitted as a grounding electrode when it is in contact with the earth.

You might be mis reading 250.52(A)(3),where it states that the footing or foundation needs to be in contact with the earth.

 

[haskindm]

Re: Ground Rods

As Pierre said they are probably referring to 250.52(A)(3) Concrete-Encased Electrode. See also 250.50 which states that this MUST be part of your grounding electrode system if it is PRESENT, not just if it is available.

 

[don_resqcapt19]

Re: Ground Rods

250.52(A)(5)(b) permits the use of rebar in earth as a grounding electrode. This is not a new rule, the same wording appears in 250-83(c)(2) in the 1984 code.

Electrodes of rods of iron or steel shall be at least 15.87 mm ( 5/ 8 in.) in diameter.

Don