Grounding measurements using auxiliary circuits disposed vertically in the ground

Abstract

This paper presents experimental data that indicate the feasibility of using auxiliary voltage and current circuits installed vertically in the ground to measure grounding impedances in contrast to conventional methodologies that dispose these circuits horizontally on the ground surface. Measurement results of transient impedance (in the time domain) and harmonic impedance (in the frequency domain) of grounding electrodes are presented, and they show a good agreement with results from the conventional methodology. Comparisons between measured and calculated values of transient impedance are presented and show good agreement. The proposed method is helpful when the grounding system is installed in narrow places, like neighborhoods of GIS 1 1 Gas Insulated Switchgear. -type substations or urban transmission lines, where dense vegetation or buildings make the conventional methodology difficult or unfeasible. • Grounding impedances or resistances can be measured with vertical auxiliary circuits. • The novel methodology can be used in densely populated areas with advantages. • Circuits positions are interchangeable and do not affect the results significantly. • The proposed method is a flexible alternative to measure grounding parameters.