What is the primary purpose of grounding systems?

The primary purpose of grounding systems is to provide a path for fault current. This is crucial for safety in electrical systems, as grounding helps to prevent electric shock and allows circuit protection devices, such as circuit breakers and fuses, to operate effectively in the event of a fault. When a fault occurs, such as a short circuit, the grounding system directs the excess current safely to the ground. This ensures that the electrical system can safely handle faults by redirecting dangerous currents and triggering protective devices to cut off power, minimizing the risk of fire or injury.

In contrast, while grounding can play a role in stabilizing voltage under certain conditions, its main function is not voltage stabilization during normal operation. Grounding does not specifically protect against thermal overloads; rather, it helps manage fault currents and ensures safe operation under fault conditions. Although grounding may assist in providing a reference point for surge protection (including lightning), that is not its primary role. The focus of grounding systems is fundamentally on safety and managing fault currents to protect both people and property.