Earthing Rod Size Calculator

Calculate optimal earthing rod dimensions for safe fault current dissipation

Earthing Rod Size Calculator

Based on Adiabatic Heating Principle

Results:

Required Cross-Sectional Area: 0.00 mm²

Minimum Rod Diameter: 0.00 mm

Recommended Rod Diameter: 0.00 mm

How to Use the Calculator

Step 1: Fault Current

  1. Determine maximum fault current
  2. Calculate from transformer capacity
  3. Consider system impedance
  4. Use worst-case scenario
  5. Enter value in Amperes

Step 2: Fault Duration

  1. Check protective device settings
  2. Consider circuit breaker trip time
  3. Include relay coordination time
  4. Use maximum clearing time
  5. Enter value in seconds

Step 3: Material Selection

  1. Choose appropriate rod material
  2. Consider corrosion resistance
  3. Check local standards
  4. Copper offers best conductivity
  5. GI is cost-effective option

Earthing Rod Fundamentals

Adiabatic Heating

During fault conditions, the earthing rod must:

  • Safely conduct fault current to ground
  • Withstand thermal stress without melting
  • Maintain structural integrity

Material Properties

  • Material constant (k) varies by conductor type
  • Higher k values require smaller cross-sections
  • Copper has highest thermal capacity

Key Considerations:

• Fault current magnitude and duration

• Material thermal properties

• Safety factors and standards compliance

Calculation Formulas

Cross-Sectional Area:
S = √(If² × t) / k

Rod Diameter:
d = √(4 × S / π)

Where:
If = Fault Current (A), t = Time (s), k = Material Constant

Example Calculation

Galvanized Iron Rod:

Fault Current: 30,000A

Fault Duration: 0.5s

Material: GI (k=80)

S = √(30,000² × 0.5) / 80 = 265.16 mm²

d = √(4 × 265.16 / π) = 18.4 mm

Recommended: 20 mm diameter rod

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