According to the National Electrical Code (NEC), equipment grounding conductors can be made from which material?

The correct answer is that equipment grounding conductors can be made from copper, aluminum, or copper-clad aluminum as specified by the National Electrical Code (NEC). This flexibility in acceptable materials reflects the diverse applications and requirements of electrical installations.

Copper is a popular choice due to its excellent conductivity and resistance to corrosion, making it highly effective for grounding purposes. Aluminum, while less conductive than copper, is much lighter and often more cost-effective, which is advantageous in certain installations. Copper-clad aluminum offers a compromise, combining the lightweight nature of aluminum with the conductivity benefits of a copper cladding.

The inclusion of these materials in the NEC allows for a wider selection based on factors like cost, desired conductivity, and environmental conditions. This helps ensure that electrical systems can be safely and effectively grounded regardless of the specific circumstances of the installation. The options of plastic or fiber are not suitable for grounding conductors, as they do not provide the necessary electrical conductivity to ensure safety and reliability in grounding applications.