I am curious how the earth work as an omnipresent conductive surface in an electrical distribution system?
How it works? see my previous post. In electrical distribution systems, it provides a reference potential (zero). One has to have a reference potenial to measure the actual line potentials. IF ground was "floating", and not reference zero, and you distributed electrical power, what you thought was 24 volts, now is 24+ground. That could be a total of 11,207 volts, and present a significant shock hazard. So having ground as a reference zero, to which all other potentials are measured, ensures significant safety on electrical distribution lines. The reality often is that ground is not zero, but near zero. So if you measure distribution voltages to ground, it may be a few volts above what you generated. Here in my area of Texas, when it is dry, I often have "ground" potential up to 6 volts above reference zero, due to dry Earth. So we often use water pipes as "ground", but nowadays as we have plastic pipes, that option goes away. On my house, I have an 11 feet ground rod inserted, but even in dry times, it is not zero.
Oh great! Now I know. Thank you for answering my question.
To understand how the Earth works as an omnipresent conductive surface in an electrical distribution system, we need to discuss the concept of grounding.
Grounding, also known as earthing, is a vital element of electrical systems. It ensures the safety and operational efficiency of the system. In an electrical distribution system, the Earth serves as a reference point or a reference potential for voltages.
Here's how it works:
1. Grounding Electrode System: To establish a solid connection with the Earth, a grounding electrode system is installed. This system typically consists of metal rods or plates buried deep into the ground. The grounding electrode system acts as a pathway for electrical current to flow into the Earth.
2. Voltage Reference: The Earth acts as a voltage reference or a zero-volt potential. In a typical electrical distribution system, the power transformer's neutral point is connected to the Earth through a conductor, creating a direct electrical connection. This connection ensures that any current flowing through the system will have a reference point in the Earth.
3. Fault Current Path: In the event of a fault, such as a short circuit or a ground fault, excessive current flows through the system. The Earth provides a low-impedance path for this fault current to travel. The grounding electrode system allows the current to safely dissipate into the Earth, reducing the risk of electrical shock or damage to the equipment.
4. Surge Dissipation: The Earth also helps in dissipating electrical surges. Lightning strikes or power surges can cause significant voltage spikes. By providing a low-resistance path, the Earth absorbs and disperses these surges into the ground, protecting the electrical system from damage.
Overall, the Earth works as an omnipresent conductive surface in an electrical distribution system by maintaining a reference potential, providing a safe path for fault currents, and dissipating electrical surges. The grounding system, including the grounding electrode, plays a significant role in establishing and maintaining this electrical connection with the Earth.