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Generator earthing

Baldyhugh
Hi


I have a tractor driven Backup generator to install on a farm shortly and have a query regarding the earth spike. Does it need to go directly back to the MET or can I connect it directly into the generator earth terminal, the latter being Quite a lot simpler   In my case? 


thanks

Parents
  • 0
    No Hugh that isn't right. If the supply is TNS you don't need a spike, as you have an Earth connection which should give the same protection as the mains supply. I assume the farm has a transformer close by for its supply, which will have an Earth mat or whatever. Everything should have RCD protection already, (section 705) 705.411.1. All you need is a change over switch in the tails (only phases and neutral) between your generator and the mains supply, and a 300mA RCD in the generator supply to provide Earth fault protection to the connecting cables etc. and the existing Earth will work normally as long as you connect it! I expect a tractor unit will be at least 40kVA, so all your normal OPDs up to 40A or so should operate normally. If the supply is bigger (for a grain dryer or similar) then it is likely the Generator may not power the entire load, some warning is needed because you will stall the tractor or cause mechanical damage somewhere. Ask any further questions if you need.


    regards

    David
Reply
  • 0
    No Hugh that isn't right. If the supply is TNS you don't need a spike, as you have an Earth connection which should give the same protection as the mains supply. I assume the farm has a transformer close by for its supply, which will have an Earth mat or whatever. Everything should have RCD protection already, (section 705) 705.411.1. All you need is a change over switch in the tails (only phases and neutral) between your generator and the mains supply, and a 300mA RCD in the generator supply to provide Earth fault protection to the connecting cables etc. and the existing Earth will work normally as long as you connect it! I expect a tractor unit will be at least 40kVA, so all your normal OPDs up to 40A or so should operate normally. If the supply is bigger (for a grain dryer or similar) then it is likely the Generator may not power the entire load, some warning is needed because you will stall the tractor or cause mechanical damage somewhere. Ask any further questions if you need.


    regards

    David
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