Earthing coal (or charcoal for earthing) refers to using carbonized wood/coconut shells, mixed with salt, in electrical grounding pits to significantly lower soil resistance, creating a better, more conductive path for fault currents to safely dissipate into the earth, protecting people and equipment from shocks and surges, especially in conventional plate/pipe earthing systems. This combination enhances soil conductivity and moisture retention around the earthing electrode, making grounding effective and reliable.
How it Works
- Conductivity: Charcoal's carbon content acts as a semiconductor, while salt (like sodium chloride) dissolves in moisture, creating ions that boost electrical conductivity through the soil.
- Low Resistance: The mixture of charcoal and salt in the earth pit creates a highly conductive medium, significantly reducing the overall earth resistance (resistivity).
- Moisture Retention: Charcoal helps hold moisture, ensuring consistent conductivity, as dry soil resists current flow.
- Safe Path: This improved conductive layer provides a low-resistance highway for stray electrical currents to travel to the ground, preventing dangerous voltage buildup.
Application
- Conventional Earthing: It's commonly used in traditional plate or pipe earthing, layered around the electrode (like a GI pipe or plate) within the pit.
- Mixture Ratio: A typical ratio is around 31 parts charcoal to salt for optimal results, though specific requirements vary.
- Maintenance: While effective, conventional methods with charcoal/salt need regular watering to maintain moisture and conductivity, unlike modern chemical or maintenance-free systems.
Benefits
- Enhanced Safety: Prevents electrocution by diverting fault currents.
- Equipment Protection: Protects appliances from damage during surges.
- Stable Voltage: Helps stabilize system voltage.