View Single Post
  #2   Report Post  
Posted to uk.d-i-y
Andy Wade Andy Wade is offline
external usenet poster
 
Posts: 1,285
Default Generator safety question - grounding

Flynt wrote:

Specifically, this query relates to the subject of grounding.


We tend to call it earthing on this side of the pond.

generator is in the vehicle load bed and is obviously well separated
from the ground. The vehicle is usually operated on concrete or tarmac
so if a ground rod were necessary it wouldn't be possible. The
question is, ignoring whether I could fit a rod or not, is one
necessary? Would having one be more dangerous than not?

Is there any advantage in using a trip of some sort or because of the
earthing (or absence thereof) would it simply not work or work so well
that the supply is simply disconnected?

Any advice welcomed.


It's considered acceptable to use small generators like this as a
floating (unearthed | ungrounded) system, on a temporary basis. Ensure
that the generator output is truly floating, i.e. it doesn't have a
neutral or centre-tap connected to the framework.

For more details of sensible precautions see this article from the IEE
Wiring Matters magazine:

http://www2.theiet.org/Publish/WireR...tion_sites.pdf

--
Andy