Note:

This calculator helps determine the required **earthing system** to safely dissipate fault currents and protect electrical equipment. Proper earthing prevents **electric shocks, equipment damage, and fire hazards** while ensuring compliance with safety standards. To calculate this, enter the following:

• Fault Current (I): The maximum fault current that flows during a short circuit, typically measured in kiloamperes (kA). A higher fault current requires a more robust earthing system to ensure safety.
• Soil Resistivity (ρ): A measure of how well the soil conducts electricity, expressed in ohm-meters (Ω·m). Lower soil resistivity improves grounding efficiency, while higher resistivity may require additional grounding electrodes or treatment.
• Fault Duration (t): The time taken for the fault to be cleared by protective devices, measured in seconds. A longer fault duration increases thermal and mechanical stress on the grounding system.
• Conductor Material: The type of material used for earthing, such as Copper, Aluminum, or Steel. Copper is preferred for its high conductivity and corrosion resistance, whereas Aluminum and Steel are cost-effective alternatives.
• Plate Electrode Area: The size of the earthing plate buried in the ground, measured in square meters (m²). A larger electrode area improves ground contact and reduces overall resistance.
• HT Side Fault Current: The fault current on the high-voltage (HT) side of the electrical system, measured in kA. Proper grounding on the HT side is critical to preventing insulation breakdown and equipment damage.
• LT Side Fault Current: The fault current on the low-voltage (LT) side, measured in kA. An effective LT grounding system enhances electrical safety by minimizing voltage fluctuations and ensuring proper fault clearance.

Understanding the Result

After entering the values, clicking Calculate Earthing System will give the following results:

• Total Area Required: The minimum earthing plate area needed to safely dissipate fault current.
• Number of Plate Electrodes: The number of plates required based on the given area.
• HT Side Earthing Conductor Size: The required conductor size to handle high-voltage faults.
• LT Side Earthing Conductor Size: The required conductor size to handle low-voltage faults.

Permissible Current Density Values

The conductor material is selected based on how much **current per mm²** it can safely carry for **3 seconds** (typical fault duration).

• Copper: **118 A/mm²** for 3 seconds.
• Aluminum: **73 A/mm²** for 3 seconds.
• Steel (GI): **46 A/mm²** for 3 seconds.

By ensuring a properly designed earthing system, we **protect human lives, prevent equipment failure, and reduce electrical risks**.

If you are unsure about any of the values or how to calculate them, consult with an electrical engineer or refer to the relevant standards and guidelines for earthing system design.