GROUND SYSTEM MAINTENANCE

Out of sight, out of mind does not or, at least, should not apply to a facility ground system. Grounding is a crucial element in achieving reliable operation of electronic equipment. If a ground system has been buried for 10 years or more, it is due for an inspection. Soil conditions vary widely, but few areas have soil that permits a radial- or screen-based ground system to last much more than 15 years.

The method of construction and bonding of the ground network also can play a significant role in the ultimate life expectancy of the system. For example, ground conductors secured only by mechanical means (screws and bolts, crimping, and rivets) can quickly break down when exposed to even mild soil conditions. Unless silver-soldered or bonded using an exothermic method, such connections soon will be useless for all practical purposes.
The inspection process involves uncovering portions of the ground system to check for evidence of failure. Pay particular attention to interconnection points, where the greatest potential for problems exists. In some cases, a good metal detector will help identify portions of the ground system. It will not, however, identify breaks in the system. Portions of the ground system still will need to be uncovered to complete the inspection. Accurate documentation of the placement of ground-system components will aid the inspection effort greatly.

Check any buried mechanical connections carefully. Bolts that have been buried for many years may be severely deteriorated. Carefully remove several bolts, and inspect their condition. If a bolt is severely oxidized, it may twist off as it is removed. After uncovering representative portions of the ground system, document the condition of the ground through notes and photographs. These will serve as a reference point for future observation. The photos in Figure illustrate some of the problems that can occur with an aging ground system. Note that many of the problems experienced with the system shown in the photographs resulted from improper installation of components in the first place.

(a)

(b)

(c)

Figure: Ground system inspection: (a) Even though a buried copper strap may appear undamaged, give it a pull to be sure. This strap came apart with little effort. (b) Acidic soil conditions created holes in this ground screen. (c) Small pieces of copper strap were used in this ground system to attach radials to the ground screen around the base of a tower. Proper installation procedures would have incorporated a solid piece of strap around the perimeter of the screen for such connections.

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