What are the 5 IEC types of earthing systems?

Introduction

The international standard for electrical installation, known as the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), has defined five different types of earthing systems. These systems play a crucial role in protecting people and equipment from electric shock or damage caused by electrical faults. In this article, we will discuss each type of earthing system, its characteristics, and its applications in various industries.

TN Earthing System

The TN earthing system is widely used in residential and commercial buildings. The letter "T" represents the connection between the earth and neutral point of the electrical supply, while "N" represents neutral. This system ensures that all exposed conductive parts of electrical equipment are connected to the earth through protective conductors, minimizing the risk of electric shock. TN earthing is further divided into three subcategories: TN-S, TN-C, and TN-C-S, based on the separation of neutral and protective conductors along the distribution network.

TT Earthing System

The TT earthing system is commonly employed in areas with high soil resistivity, where it may not be feasible to achieve a low-resistance connection to an earth electrode. In this system, each electrical device or equipment has its own local earth electrode, thus providing multiple points of earthing. The letter "T" symbolizes the direct connection of exposed conductive parts to the local earth electrode, while the second "T" denotes the connection between neutral and earth. TT earthing offers enhanced protection against electrical faults and ensures reliable operation even under adverse conditions.

IT Earthing System

The IT earthing system is utilized in critical areas such as hospitals, data centers, and production facilities. This system isolates the electrical supply from the earth by utilizing an insulation transformer, so that any fault in the electrical equipment does not result in a complete shutdown. IT earthing provides reliable and continuous power supply by avoiding the interruption caused by a single fault. It also ensures the safety of personnel and prevents damage to sensitive equipment.

PN Earthing System

The PN earthing system is typically found in remote areas or places with limited resources. In this system, protective earthing conductors are not utilized, and all exposed conductive parts are directly connected to the neutral point of the generator or transformer. Although it is not the most ideal earthing solution, the PN system can provide some level of protection against electric shock.

TN-S & TN-C-S: A Comparison

TN-S and TN-C-S systems are two subcategories of the TN earthing system that deserve special attention. TN-S stands for "Separated Neutral and Protective PE Conductors," while TN-C-S refers to the combination of "Common PEN Conductor" and "Separated Protective PE Conductor." The key difference between these two subcategories lies in the bonding arrangement between neutral and protective conductors at the customer's installation. Choosing the appropriate configuration is crucial to ensure the safety and reliability of the electrical system.

Conclusion

In summary, understanding the different types of earthing systems outlined by the IEC is fundamental for electrical engineers, electricians, and anyone involved in electrical installations. Proper selection, design, and implementation of an earthing system are essential to protect lives and equipment and to achieve reliable, safe, and efficient operation. Each type of system has its advantages and suitability for specific applications, and adherence to international standards is crucial to ensure optimal performance and compliance with regulations.