Is concrete conductive?
Is concrete conductive? What is its role in grounding? This question, which we encounter in the field, is well explained in the standard: TS HD 60364-5-54 Low-voltage electrical installations – Part 5 -54: Selection and erection of electrical equipment – Earthing arrangements and protective conductors. Concrete used for building foundations has a certain conductivity and a fairly large contact area with the soil. Therefore, bare metal electrodes completely embedded in concrete can be used for grounding purposes unless the concrete is isolated from the soil by special thermal insulation or other measures. Due to chemical and physical effects, bare or hot-dip galvanized steel and other metals embedded in concrete to a depth of more than 5 cm are normally highly protected against corrosion for the entire life of the building. Where possible, the conductivity effects of the building reinforcement should also be taken into account. Emre Metin, Electrical Engineer
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The conductivity of concrete, especially grounding installations It is important in terms of design and effectiveness. Foundation grounding and damp concrete directly affect grounding resistance. The only way to determine the actual grounding resistance of your facility is through professional measurement.
Relating to: What should the grounding resistance be in Ohms? · What is Grounding Measurement and How is it Performed?