Network Standard

Document No : NW000-S0051
Amendment No : 0
NETWORK Approved By : Chief Engineer
Approval Date : DD/MM/YYYY
Review Date : 01/11/2017

NW000-S0051 NS116 DESIGN STANDARDS FOR DISTRIBUTION EQUIPMENT

EARTHING

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 NS116 Design Standards for Distribution Equipment Earthing Amendment No 0

ISSUE

For issue to all Ausgrid and Accredited Service Providers’ staff involved with the involved with the design and construction of distribution
equipment earthing systems and is for reference by field, technical and engineering staff.

Ausgrid maintains a copy of this and other Network Standards together with updates and amendments on [Link].

Where this standard is issued as a controlled document replacing an earlier edition, remove and destroy the superseded document

DISCLAIMER

As Ausgrid’s standards are subject to ongoing review, the information contained in this document may be amended by Ausgrid at any
time.

It is possible that conflict may exist between standard documents. In this event, the most recent standard shall prevail.

This document has been developed using information available from field and other sources and is suitable for most situations
encountered in Ausgrid. Particular conditions, projects or localities may require special or different practices. It is the responsibility of
the local manager, supervisor, assured quality contractor and the individuals involved to make sure that a safe system of work is
employed and that statutory requirements are met.

Ausgrid disclaims any and all liability to any person or persons for any procedure, process or any other thing done or not done, as a
result of this Standard.

All design work, and the associated supply of materials and equipment, must be undertaken in accordance with and consideration of
relevant legislative and regulatory requirements, latest revision of Ausgrid’s Network Standards and specifications and Australian
Standards. Designs submitted shall be declared as fit for purpose. Where the designer wishes to include a variation to a network
standard or an alternative material or equipment to that currently approved the designer must obtain authorisation from the Network
Standard owner before incorporating a variation to a Network Standard in a design.

External designers including those authorised as Accredited Service Providers will seek approval through the approved process as
outlined in NUS181 Approval of Materials and Equipment and Network Standard Variations. Seeking approval will ensure Network
Standards are appropriately updated and that a consistent interpretation of the legislative framework is employed.

Notes: 1. Compliance with this Network Standard does not automatically satisfy the requirements of a Designer Safety Report. The
designer must comply with the provisions of the Workplace Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (NSW - Part 6.2 Duties of designer of
structure and person who commissions construction work) which requires the designer to provide a written safety report to the person
who commissioned the design. This report must be provided to Ausgrid in all instances, including where the design was commissioned
by or on behalf of a person who proposes to connect premises to Ausgrid’s network, and will form part of the Designer Safety Report
which must also be presented to Ausgrid. Further information is provided in Network Standard (NS) 212 Integrated Support
Requirements for Ausgrid Network Assets.

2. Where the procedural requirements of this document conflict with contestable project procedures, the contestable project procedures
shall take precedent for the whole project or part thereof which is classified as contestable. Any external contact with Ausgrid for
contestable works projects is to be made via the Ausgrid officer responsible for facilitating the contestable project. The Contestable
Ausgrid officer will liaise with Ausgrid internal departments and specialists as necessary to fulfil the requirements of this standard. All
other technical aspects of this document which are not procedural in nature shall apply to contestable works projects.

INTERPRETATION

In the event that any user of this Standard considers that any of its provisions is uncertain, ambiguous or otherwise in need of
interpretation, the user should request Ausgrid to clarify the provision. Ausgrid’s interpretation shall then apply as though it was included
in the Standard, and is final and binding. No correspondence will be entered into with any person disputing the meaning of the provision
published in the Standard or the accuracy of Ausgrid’s interpretation.

KEYPOINTS

This standard has a summary of content labelled “KEYPOINTS FOR THIS STANDARD”. The inclusion or omission of items in this
summary does not signify any specific importance or criticality to the items described. It is meant to simply provide the reader with a
quick assessment of some of the major issues addressed by the standard. To fully appreciate the content and the requirements of the
standard it must be read in its entirety.

AMENDMENTS TO THIS STANDARD

Where there are changes to this standard from the previously approved version, any previous shading is removed and the newly
affected paragraphs are shaded with a grey background. Where the document changes exceed 25% of the document content, any grey
background in the document is to be removed and the following words should be shown below the title block on the right hand side of
the page in bold and italic, for example, Supersedes – document details (for example, “Supersedes Document Type (Category)
Document No. Amendment No.”).

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 KEY POINTS OF THIS STANDARD

Basic Design and Design Earthing System Construction

Scope and Risks Addressed Earthing System Design
Process and Commissioning

This Network Standard applies to the The earthing system design basic The following basic design configurations The earthing system construction, testing
design and construction of all distribution requirements include the following are included: and commissioning requirements include:
equipment earthing systems on Ausgrid’s considerations:
electricity supply network including the  Specific design issues are referenced  Use of Dial-before-you-dig prior to
following equipment:  Utilise earthing system design in Clause 7.1 for each equipment commencing work.
software NEOn. Access to NEOn is situation, a summary of which can be  List of standard construction drawings
 ABS handles requested using form in Annexure B. found in table 1. supplied in Annexure A which must be
 Cable screens, sheaths and armour  Multiple Earthed Neutral system of  NEOn to be used for all earthing followed unless approval granted
 Capacitors earthing used throughout Ausgrid’s LV system designs for all distribution following consultation with Ausgrid
 Conductive poles supply system (refer Cl. 6.2) equipment that connects to the staff.
 Enclosed Load-Break Switches  Design considerations presented in Cl. Ausgrid network.  Materials used must be suitable
(ELBS) 6.4  Conductors, electrode s and
 HV ABC catenaries  Design outcomes provide for three connectors used must comply with
 HV control and metering centres fundamental design configurations: requirements and design detail.
 Nominal 5kV, 11kV and 22kV primary o Combined earthing system  Detailed installation method
voltage systems o Segregated earthing system requirements are provided
 Nominal 240/415 volt distribution o HV only earthing system  Testing requirements for installations
systems  Special consideration is given to is given
 Pole, kiosk, chamber and ground type situations where sub-transmission and  Reporting requirements are given
distribution substations distribution assets are supported by  Roles and responsibilities of persons
 11 kV Pot heads/UGOHs the same pole. involved in earthing system designs is
(underground to overhead transitions)  Care must be exercised with the safety provided.
 Reclosers of workers on adjacent services such
 Voltage Regulators as telecommunications workers.
 SWER systems
 11 kV CCT surge arresters

Where to for more information? Where to for more information? Where to for more information?
Section 6 Section 7, 8 Section 9, 10

Where to for more information? Tools and Forms Tools and Forms Tools and Forms
Section 1, 2 Annexes A & B Annexes C & D Annexes E-H

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NS116 Design Standards for Distribution Equipment Earthing Amendment No 0

Network Standard
NS116
Design Standards for Distribution Equipment Earthing

Contents

1.0 PURPOSE ............................................................................................................................................. 6

2.0 SCOPE .................................................................................................................................................. 6
3.0 REFERENCES ...................................................................................................................................... 7
3.1 General ...................................................................................................................................... 7
3.2 Ausgrid documents .................................................................................................................... 7
3.3 Other standards and documents................................................................................................ 7
3.4 Acts and regulations................................................................................................................... 8
4.0 DEFINITIONS ........................................................................................................................................ 9
5.0 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................. 11
5.1 General requirements .............................................................................................................. 11
5.2 Gaining access to NEOn .......................................................................................................... 11
6.0 EARTHING SYSTEM DESIGN ............................................................................................................ 12
6.1 General requirements .............................................................................................................. 12
6.2 Design context ......................................................................................................................... 12
6.3 System components................................................................................................................. 13
6.4 Design considerations .............................................................................................................. 13
6.5 Design outcomes ..................................................................................................................... 14
6.5.1 Combined earthing system .......................................................................................... 14
6.5.2 Segregated earthing system ........................................................................................ 14
6.5.3 HV only earthing system .............................................................................................. 15
6.6 Sub-transmission and distribution on shared poles ................................................................. 15
7.0 BASIC DESIGN CONFIGURATIONS.................................................................................................. 16
7.1 Configuration fundamentals ..................................................................................................... 16
7.1.1 Air Break Switch (ABS) handle earthing ...................................................................... 16
7.1.2 Capacitors .................................................................................................................... 16
7.1.3 Pole top substations on conductive distribution poles ................................................. 16
7.1.4 Construction drawings and specifications from NEOn ................................................. 16
7.1.5 Electrode connections .................................................................................................. 16
7.1.6 Earth electrodes ........................................................................................................... 16
7.1.7 HV cable interconnections ........................................................................................... 16
7.1.8 HV connections between RMU and distribution transformer ....................................... 17
7.1.9 HV earth electrode groups in segregated earthing systems ........................................ 17
7.1.10 Kiosk housings ............................................................................................................. 17
7.1.11 LV neutral interconnections .......................................................................................... 17
7.1.12 Metallic HV cable covers on wood poles...................................................................... 17
7.1.13 Metallic LV cable covers on wood poles ...................................................................... 18
7.1.14 Metallic cable covers on conductive poles ................................................................... 18
7.1.15 Provision for future test ................................................................................................ 18
7.1.16 Reclosers, regulators and capacitors ........................................................................... 18
7.1.17 Sub-transmission voltages on conductive poles or poles with earthed overhead earth
wire also carrying distribution equipment ................................................................................. 18

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NS116 Design Standards for Distribution Equipment Earthing Amendment No 0

7.1.18 Separation required from HV electrodes ...................................................................... 18

7.1.19 Segregated earthing systems ...................................................................................... 18
7.1.20 Street lighting standards .............................................................................................. 19
7.1.21 Substations near electrified rail lines............................................................................ 19
7.2 Basic configuration summary ................................................................................................... 19
8.0 DESIGN PROCESS............................................................................................................................. 21
8.1 NEOn to be used for all designs .............................................................................................. 21
9.0 EARTHING SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION ............................................................................................ 22
9.1 General .................................................................................................................................... 22
9.2 Utility services and obstructions............................................................................................... 22
9.3 Physical earthing system layout............................................................................................... 22
9.4 Earthing materials - general ..................................................................................................... 22
9.4.1 Earthing conductors ..................................................................................................... 23
9.4.2 Earthing electrodes ...................................................................................................... 23
9.4.3 Above ground earthing conductor connections ............................................................ 23
9.4.4 Earthing backfill compounds ........................................................................................ 23
9.4.5 Prevention of contact ................................................................................................... 24
9.5 Installation methods ................................................................................................................. 24
9.5.1 Earthing arrangements ................................................................................................. 24
9.5.2 Electrodes not to be driven after crimping ................................................................... 24
9.5.3 Earthing not to encroach on other allocations.............................................................. 25
9.5.4 Earth and neutral bar connections ............................................................................... 25
9.5.5 Stainless bolts – lubrication of threads......................................................................... 25
9.6 If a certified design cannot be achieved................................................................................... 25
10.0 EARTHING SYSTEM COMMISSIONING ........................................................................................... 26
10.1 General Requirements ............................................................................................................. 26
10.2 Earthing resistance commissioning tests ................................................................................. 26
10.2.1 Earthing configuration inspection ................................................................................. 26
10.2.2 Three point / fall of potential - resistance test .............................................................. 26
10.2.3 Loop (clip-on tong) - resistance test ............................................................................. 26
10.3 Reporting.................................................................................................................................. 26
11.0 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ...................................................................................................... 27
12.0 RECORDKEEPING ............................................................................................................................. 27
13.0 AUTHORITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES .......................................................................................... 27
14.0 DOCUMENT CONTROL...................................................................................................................... 27
ANNEXURE A – STANDARD CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS ...................................................................... 28
ANNEXURE B – APPLICATION FOR ACCESS TO NEON ........................................................................... 29
ANNEXURE C – SEPARATION BETWEEN DISTRIBUTION EQUIPMENT EARTHING SYSTEMS AND
TELECOMMUNICATIONS PLANT ................................................................................................................. 30
ANNEXURE D – SOIL RESISTIVITIES (INDICATIVE ONLY) ........................................................................ 33
ANNEXURE E – GUIDANCE FOR TESTING ................................................................................................. 34
ANNEXURE F – TEST SHEETS ..................................................................................................................... 51
ANNEXURE G – EARTHING SIGNS .............................................................................................................. 56
ANNEXURE H – SAMPLE COMPLIANCE CHECKLIST ................................................................................ 57

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NS116 Design Standards for Distribution Equipment Earthing Amendment No 0

1.0 PURPOSE
Ausgrid’s electricity supply network is a major infrastructure investment, and is required to operate
safely, economically and reliably in all environmental conditions and with respect to other metallic
systems.

The design and construction requirements specified in this are intended to satisfy electrical
performance and economic requirements, and to meet all statutory obligations. The distribution
equipment earthing systems specified utilise readily available components that have demonstrated
reliability.

This Network Standard may be amended or updated at any time to reflect improvements in design
or technology advances. The design and construction teams shall ensure that the latest version of
this standard is used for the design and construction of distribution equipment earthing systems.

This Network Standard includes a major revision to the distribution equipment earthing design
process that is based on a risk management methodology. This methodology will ensure the
earthing for items of equipment is designed to suit the specific configuration of that equipment in its
contexts, and will result in optimised earthing designs to ENA EG-0 Power System Earthing Guide.

2.0 SCOPE
This Network Standard applies to the design and construction of all distribution equipment earthing
systems including but not limited to:

 ABS handles
 Cable screens, sheaths and armour
 Capacitors
 Conductive poles
 Enclosed Load-Break Switches (ELBS)
 HV ABC catenaries
 HV control and metering centres
 Nominal 5kV, 11kV and 22kV primary voltage systems
 Nominal 240/415 volt distribution systems
 Pole, kiosk, chamber and ground type distribution substations
 11 kV Pot heads/UGOHs (underground to overhead transitions)
 Reclosers
 Voltage Regulators
 SWER systems
 11 kV CCT surge arresters

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NS116 Design Standards for Distribution Equipment Earthing Amendment No 0

3.0 REFERENCES
3.1 General
All work covered in this document shall conform to all relevant Legislation, Standards, Codes of
Practice and Network Standards. All work covered in this document shall conform to all relevant
Legislation, Standards, Codes of Practice and Network Standards. Current Network Standards are
available on Ausgrid’s Internet site at [Link].

3.2 Ausgrid documents

 Bush Fire Risk Management Plan
 CIA 107 Basic Distribution Equipment Earthing Design Process for Non-Contestable/Capital
Work.
 Company Procedure (Governance) - Network Document Endorsement and Approval
 Company Procedure (Governance) - Production / Review of Network Standards
 Company Form (Governance) - Network Document Endorsement and Approval
 Customer Installation Safety Plan
 Connection Policy - Connection Charges
 Customer Connection Contract (NECF) index
 Electricity Network Safety Management System Manual
 Electrical Safety Rules
 ES4 Service Provider Authorisation
 ES10 Requirements for Electricity Supply to Developments
 NS100 Field Recording of Network Assets
 NS104 Specification for Electrical Network Project Design Plans
 NS109 Design Standards for Overhead Supply Developments and Distribution Centres
 NS110 Design and Construction Standards for URD
 NS112 Design Standards for Industrial/Commercial Developments
 NS113 Site Selection and Construction Design Requirements for Chamber Type Substations
 NS114 Electrical Design and Construction Standards for Chamber Type Substations
 NS117 Design and Construction Standards for Kiosk Type Substations
 NS122 Pole Mounted Substation Construction
 NS126 Construction of High Voltage Overhead Mains
 NS127 Specification for Low Voltage Cable Joints and Terminations
 NS129 11kV Joints and Terminations – Paper Insulated Lead Covered Cables
 NS130 Specification for Laying Underground Cables up to and including 11kV
 NS141 Site Selection and Site Preparation Standards for Kiosk Type Substations
 NS143 Easements, Leases and Rights of Way
 NS156 Working Near or Around Underground Cables
 NS158 Labelling of Mains and Apparatus
 NS174 Environmental Procedures
 NS177 11kV Joints (including Transition Joints) and Terminations – Polymeric Insulated
Cables
 NS181 Approval of Materials and Equipment and Network Standard Variations
 NS212 Integrated Support Requirements for Ausgrid Network Assets
 NS261 Requirement for Design Compliance Framework for Network Standards
 Policy for ASP/1 Premises Connections
 Public Electrical Safety Awareness Plan
 Public Lighting Management Plan
 Tree Safety Management Plan

3.3 Other standards and documents

 AS/NZS 1768:2007 Lightning Protection
 AS/NZS 3835.1:2006 Earth potential rise - Protection of telecommunications network users,
personnel and plant - Code of practice

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NS116 Design Standards for Distribution Equipment Earthing Amendment No 0

 AS/NZS 3835.2:2006 Earth potential rise - Protection of telecommunications network users,

personnel and plant - Application guide
 AS/NZS 4853:2012 Electrical hazards on metallic pipelines
 ENA Doc 001-2008 National Electricity Network Safety Code
 ENA EG-0 Power System Earthing Guide
 ENA EG1-2006 Substation Earthing Guide
 HB 219:2006 Earth potential rise - Protection of telecommunications network users,
personnel and plant - Worked examples for the application guide
 WorkCover’s Guideline to Work near Underground Assets

3.4 Acts and regulations

 Electricity Supply (General) Regulation 2014 (NSW)
 Electricity Supply (Safety and Network Management) Regulation 2014
 Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Regulation 2011

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NS116 Design Standards for Distribution Equipment Earthing Amendment No 0

4.0 DEFINITIONS
ABS Air Break Switch
Approved Approved Materials means materials acceptable to Ausgrid, purchased from
Materials suppliers satisfying Ausgrid’s Quality Assurance requirements or materials
which have been supplied by or purchased from Ausgrid.
Accredited An individual or entity accredited by the NSW Government Trade &
Service Provider Investment in accordance with the Electricity Supply (Safety and Network
(ASP) Management) Regulation 2014 (NSW).
Business An Ausgrid internal integrated policy and procedure framework that contains
Management the approved version of documents.
System (BMS)
BIL The basic insulation level (BIL) of an item of equipment or construction
relates to its ability to withstand transient overvoltages.
Combined In a combined (or ‘bonded’) earthing system the HV and LV earthing systems
Earthing System at a distribution substation are connected together and to the LV MEN and
any HV cable screens. Similarly any metalwork to be earthed in the area
supplied by this substation should also be bonded to this combined earthing
system usually via a connection to the LV neutral.
Compliant An earthing system that has been designed using NEOn and achieves
Earthing System NEOn’s specified design criteria.
Conductive Pole A pole made from metal or concrete.
CT Current Transformer: Used to provide isolated measurements of the amount
of current flowing through a conductor.
Design Design Information is as defined and specified in ES 10 Requirements for
Information Electricity Supply to Developments.
Dial Before You Source of information on buried utility services. Phone 1100 or
Dig [Link].
Distribution Ausgrid’s 22kV, 11kV, 5kV, Single Wire Earth Return (SWER) and low
voltage mains and equipment.
Document Ausgrid employees who work with printed copies of document must check
control the BMS regularly to monitor version control. Documents are considered
“UNCONTROLLED IF PRINTED”, as indicated in the footer.
Earth Potential Or EGVR (earth grid voltage rise) is the voltage with respect to remote earth
Rise (EPR) that the local earthing system rises to in the event of a local earth fault.
ECC Earth Continuity Conductor
Earthing Those conductors that form part of the earth fault current return path to its
source. Typically this may include some or all of the following conductors
which may form a heavily meshed earthing system: local earth electrodes,
cable armour/sheaths/screens, LV neutral conductors and the conductive
links between these.
GPS Global Positioning System.
GIS Geographic Information System.
LIWV Lightning Impulse Withstand Voltage
MEN The Multiple Earthed Neutral (MEN) system connects the low voltage neutral
conductor to earth at the distribution transformer, at each consumer’s

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installation and at other items of distribution equipment as required.

NATA National Association of Testing Authorities
NEOn Network Earthing Online – The internet-based design package to be used to
complete a distribution equipment earthing design for an Ausgrid item of
equipment.
Network A document, including Network Planning Standards, that describes the
Standard Company's minimum requirements for planning, design, construction,
maintenance, technical specification, environmental, property and metering
activities on the distribution and transmission network. These documents are
stored in the Network Category of the BMS repository.
OHEW Overhead Earth Wire.
Prospective The voltage difference between an earthed metallic structure (within 2.4m of
Touch Voltage the ground), and a point on the earth’s surface separated by a distance equal
to a person’s normal maximum horizontal reach (approximately one metre).
This voltage is defined as an open circuit voltage, measured using a high
impedance voltmeter.
Review date The review date displayed in the header of the document is the future date
for review of a document. The default period is three years from the date of
approval however a review may be mandated at any time where a need is
identified. Potential needs for a review include changes in legislation,
organisational changes, restructures, occurrence of an incident or changes in
technology or work practice and/or identification of efficiency improvements.
Ring Main Unit The high voltage metal-clad or plastic switch gear controlling a distribution
(RMU) substation.
Segregated In a segregated earthing system, metalwork and earthing associated with the
Earthing System LV supply shall be connected to the MEN. This includes the transformer
neutral, LV earthing system, exposed metalwork associated only with the LV
system, LV surge arresters customers LV switchboards and earth stakes.
Metalwork and earthing associated with the HV supply (including HV earthing
system, transformer tank, HV surge arresters, HV cable sheaths /screens
/armouring) shall be separated by sufficient distance to avoid the transfer of
unacceptable voltage rises to the LV earthing system and other utilities.
Special Locations where many people could be present and likely not to be wearing
Locations footwear, or to be wet. Examples include public swimming pools and some
playgrounds or parks.
SWER Single Wire Earth Return system.
Touch Voltage The voltage across a body, under fault conditions, in a position described as
for the prospective touch voltage but allowing for the voltage drop caused by
a current in the body.
Transfer A special case of Prospective Touch Voltage where the metallic structure is
Potential connected to a remote point or alternatively is connected to the station grid
and is touched at a remote location.
UGOH Underground to Overhead
VT Voltage Transformer used to provide an isolated LV supply to power the
control circuitry of some types of distribution assets.

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NS116 Design Standards for Distribution Equipment Earthing Amendment No 0

5.0 INTRODUCTION
5.1 General requirements
This Network Standard specifies Ausgrid’s requirements for the design, installation and
commissioning of distribution equipment earthing systems.

A core requirement of this standard is that an earthing design is required specifically for each new
equipment identified in Section 7, Table 1.

To manage the design of earthing systems for items of distribution equipment, Ausgrid has
developed a design tool, “NEOn” (Network Earthing Online).

Some of the advantages of adopting the NEOn design software are:

 Achieving a compliant combined earthing system satisfies the risk requirements for swimming
pools and school fences in the vicinity of the distribution equipment earthing system under
design.

 The required separation distance from telecommunications provider pits and pillars can be
calculated.

 The required segregation distance between HV and LV electrodes (and other

services/fences/pools) can be determined if a segregated earthing system is the only practical
solution.

 The most cost effective, compliant earthing system design can be determined quickly.

 Earthing designs can be stored for future reference.

 Ausgrid’s duty of care with respect to distribution equipment earthing systems is responsibly
managed.
The Multiple Earthed Neutral (MEN) system of earthing shall be used throughout Ausgrid’s LV
supply system.

This Network Standard is to be read in conjunction with the drawings listed in Annexure A and
other Ausgrid standards including those listed in Section 3.

5.2 Gaining access to NEOn

To gain access to NEOn the data requested in Annexure B must be provided to Ausgrid/Earthing &
Insulation Coordination Section.

Once an application is approved a user account and password will be established and emailed to
the user who will be held responsible for ensuring this access is only used for its intended purpose.

In order for Accredited Service Providers to use NEOn for Ausgrid related works, they must accept
the Terms and Conditions of Use and successfully complete the accreditation process.

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NS116 Design Standards for Distribution Equipment Earthing Amendment No 0

6.0 EARTHING SYSTEM DESIGN

6.1 General requirements
Distribution equipment earthing systems should:

 Reduce the risk to staff and public, to an acceptable level, during the transfer of earth fault
energy and load imbalance conditions.

 Allow protection equipment to operate satisfactorily under normal HV fault conditions.

 Be adequately rated to meet stated requirements.

 Help to minimise the risk of voltage stresses in excess of the equipment’s BIL.

 Be practical and cost effective to design, install, supervise and maintain.

 Comply with Ausgrid’s design requirements and other applicable standards.

 Be captured in Dial Before You Dig and other data systems.

6.2 Design context

Ausgrid’s LV distribution network employs the Multiple Earthed Neutral (MEN) system of earthing.
This connects the LV distributor neutral conductor to the consumer’s neutral and local earth
electrode (if present) at each installation. If the water service is metallic it is also bonded to the
neutral at this point. This means that the metalwork of electrical appliances, tools and equipment,
and the metallic pipes in and around buildings are generally bonded to the local MEN – refer to
Figures 1 and 2 below.

As people are frequently in contact with this ‘earthed’ metalwork they may be exposed to any
temporary voltage rises on this metalwork in the event of a local distribution network fault.

Consideration must also be given to the safety of workers on adjacent services, for example
telecommunications workers touching remotely earthed cable cores may become a path for
returning earth fault current.

Figure 1: Multiple Earthed Neutral (MEN) System

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NS116 Design Standards for Distribution Equipment Earthing Amendment No 0

6.3 System components

The major components of distribution equipment earthing systems (illustrated in Figure 2 ) are:

 HV cable sheath connections to other substations (distribution or zone);

 MEN network;
 Local earthing system at the item of equipment;
 Earth or ground itself.

Figure 2: Pictorial representation of the distribution equipment earthing environment

6.4 Design considerations

Earthing systems, when properly designed, will allow earth fault currents to return to their source
and protection systems to operate without creating unacceptable risks or exceeding the ratings of
earthing components.

To achieve a satisfactory earthing design the following factors must be considered and successfully
managed:

 What is the resistivity of the soil?

 Can a site with lower soil resistivity be chosen for the new equipment?
 Can the new equipment be solidly interconnected to a large neighbouring MEN?
 What is the likely range of earth fault currents?

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NS116 Design Standards for Distribution Equipment Earthing Amendment No 0

 How will this current be divided between the earthing system components?
 How quickly will the protection clear the fault?
 What is an appropriate touch voltage design curve (volts versus clearing time)?
 What is the optimum arrangement of local earthing electrodes?
 Will corrosion be an issue in this type of soil? (likely in soil of resistivity less than 10ohm.m)
 Can a combined earthing system be successfully designed?
 If not, how should a segregated earthing system be designed?
 How much separation is required between the distribution equipment earthing system and
other exposed metallic services and conductive structures such as: gas mains, water mains,
telecommunications plant, metallic fences, swimming pools, electrified rail lines and
underground petrol tanks?

6.5 Design outcomes

There are three fundamental distribution equipment earthing system design configuration
outcomes:

 combined earthing system,

 segregated earthing system, or

 HV only earthing system.

6.5.1 Combined earthing system

A correctly designed combined earthing system is the preferred design outcome. The combined
earthing system is configured by connecting the local HV earthing electrodes, and the earthed
metalwork on HV mains and equipment, to the LV earthing electrodes and the neutral of the local
MEN network.

The advantages of a correctly designed combined earthing system over a segregated earthing
system are that:

 HV faults will clear more quickly due to the lower impedance at the point of fault.

 HV faults will not raise the HV earthing system and surrounding soil to thousands of volts with
respect to remote earth or the MEN.

 A transformer LV winding/tapping to tank fault should blow the HV fuse.

 The requirement for specific segregation distances between the HV electrode group and:

 the LV electrodes/MEN is eliminated;

 other services or conductive structures is minimised.

6.5.2 Segregated earthing system

If a combined earthing system cannot be achieved at all or at reasonable expense, then a
segregated earthing system must be installed to manage the risk of transferring hazardous
voltages into the MEN in the event of a HV fault. There are two additional factors to consider with
respect to segregated earthing systems:

 Should a LV winding/tapping to tank fault develop in a transformer, a persistent hazardous

voltage will be present between the HV earth and the ground and possibly the LV earth and the
ground. This means that equipment with segregated earthing systems should be designated by
appropriate signs (refer to Annexure G), and that staff should always check for the presence of
a hazardous voltage before touching any earthed metalwork on equipment with a segregated
earthing system. If a voltage is present then a suitable safe work method shall be adopted
before proceeding.

 It is important to maintain appropriate separation distances between the HV electrodes and

other services or structures as the transfer potential risks may be severe. Such structures
include but are not limited to metallic fences, swimming pools, flammable gas or liquid storage

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tanks, electric railway lines, pipelines, transmission or sub-transmission substations,

transmission or sub-transmission lines, operating theatres or similar medical facilities,
communication centres, pits, pillars and metallic sheathed communication cables.

6.5.3 HV only earthing system

A number of items of distribution equipment may only require a HV earthing system (eg: reclosers,
HVCs, regulators) if they have no associated LV network or if their LV supply will not be connected
to the MEN network (i.e. may have a dedicated isolated LV source – e.g. via a VT).

It is important that the Earthing Designer determine how far these HV only earthing systems should
be separated from other surrounding metallic services, structures and MEN earth electrodes to
ensure unacceptable voltages are not impressed on them.

6.6 Sub-transmission and distribution on shared poles

Where sub-transmission and distribution feeders are or may be supported by the same pole,
serious consideration needs to be given to the questions of insulation coordination and impressed
Earth Potential Rise (EPR).

As a general rule this situation should be avoided wherever possible to reduce the risk of EPRs
exceeding distribution safety criteria being transferred into the MEN network.

If the pole is conductive and/or there is distribution and sub-transmission earthing proposed for the
same pole, an earthing design review must be conducted to ensure safety criteria are not
compromised. Please refer designs of this type to Ausgrid/Earthing & Insulation Coordination
Section for approval.

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7.0 BASIC DESIGN CONFIGURATIONS

7.1 Configuration fundamentals
The following are earthing design fundamentals that shall be used to shape more complex earthing
design configurations and standard construction drawings. Some of the typical issues arising are
also discussed:

7.1.1 Air Break Switch (ABS) handle earthing

For an ABS with a ground level handle, the operator’s hands and feet shall be equipotentially
bonded or suitably insulated. The use of fixed or temporary operator mats is allowable for ground
level handles. Bonding of the ABS handle to adjacent pole steps may be required if the ABS is
elevated and operated from the pole. Arrester earthing or other HV earthing conductors shall not
be bonded to the ABS handle. ABSs operated from ground level with insulated portable operating
sticks (i.e. no permanent downrod) do not require earthing.

7.1.2 Capacitors
Pole mounted capacitors generally obtain LV controller supply from an external source. If the
external LV source is supplied from a compliant combined substation then the capacitor earthing
may also be combined. If not, a segregated earthing design for the capacitor will be required.

7.1.3 Pole top substations on conductive distribution poles

Earthing designs for PTs on conductive poles shall be referred to Ausgrid/Earthing & Insulation
Coordination Section.

7.1.4 Construction drawings and specifications from NEOn

Annexure A lists the standard construction drawings applicable to earthing various items of
distribution equipment. The appropriate drawings and specifications from NEOn shall form part of
the certified earthing design. The design specification from NEOn shall specify whether a
combined, segregated or HV only earthing system is required for a particular item of equipment
and also the designed depths, spacings and resistances of electrodes.

7.1.5 Electrode connections

Electrode connections shall be made with two approved compression crimps at each connection or
by another approved means.

70mm2 PVC/XLPE insulated copper conductor shall be used between electrodes and earth or
neutral bars. Where specified in installation drawings for certain pole mounted equipment, insulated
aluminium conductor of equivalent section shall be used.

7.1.6 Earth electrodes

Earth electrodes shall generally have a minimum installed length of 5.4 metres (i.e. three 1.8m
rods) and be made of 15mm diameter copper clad steel rods or bare 70mm2 copper conductors.

Steel reinforced concrete in contact with the ground may also serve as an effective electrode
provided the steelwork has adequate concrete cover, and good electrical continuity is ensured
through the interconnected steelwork to the earthed equipment. This is often achieved via welding
selected reinforcing rods together.

7.1.7 HV cable interconnections

Generally the sheath of three core HV cables should be bonded to the earthing systems at both
ends as this ensures that a large proportion of the earth fault current will return through the cable
sheath rather than through the soil and earth electrodes. This reduces the magnitude of the Earth
Potential Rise (EPR). If single core cables are used it may be necessary to bond the sheath at one
end only to avoid derating the cable due to circulating current heating effects and to install an
Earthing Continuity Conductor (ECC) to carry the earth fault return current.

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In some situations this sheath connection may transfer a hazardous EPR from one substation to
another. This possibility should be considered when designing HV cable connections from Zone
Substations and from equipment with segregated earthing systems.

Note: The cable sheath may need to be routed through a protection Current Transformer (CT)
rather than directly connected to the earthing system. Refer to NS177 11kV Joints
(including Transition Joints) & Terminations - Polymeric Insulated Cables to determine the
appropriate cable sheath routing details.

7.1.8 HV connections between RMU and distribution transformer

To avoid circulating currents, the sheath of the HV cable between an RMU and distribution
transformer must be bonded to the earthing system at one end only. Refer to NS177 to determine
the appropriate configuration for terminations of this type.

7.1.9 HV earth electrode groups in segregated earthing systems

The resistance of the local HV earth electrode group should generally not be greater than 30 ohms
to satisfy lightning surge / Lightning Impulse Withstand Voltage (LIWV) stress requirements.

In some segregated earthing designs, a single deeper HV electrode (rather than multiple
electrodes) can be used to minimise the extent of the separation required.

It is sometimes possible to satisfy separation requirements by using deep drilled electrodes with a
significant portion of the top of the electrode being insulated conductor.

7.1.10 Kiosk housings

Kiosks that have a combined earthing system and metallic outer housings shall have their housings
bonded to the earth bar.

Kiosks that have a segregated earthing system shall have fibreglass housings or a suitably
designed alternative (which must be approved by Earthing & Insulation Coordination Section) to
manage the touch potential risk.

7.1.11 LV neutral interconnections

Low voltage neutrals shall be interconnected at open points in low voltage phase conductors (e.g.
at LV links).

To enhance the safety of the network, LV neutrals shall be extended to interconnect to adjacent LV
distributors wherever practical. Multiple neutral return paths provide redundancy and improve
consumer safety in the event of a high impedance fault in one neutral conductor. This is of
increasing importance as many metallic water mains (which in the past provided a backup neutral
connection) are being replaced with mains of non-metallic construction.

7.1.12 Metallic HV cable covers on wood poles

Metallic covers for HV PVC over-sheathed cables on Underground to Overhead (UGOH) poles
shall not be earthed or bonded to the MEN. The cable’s metallic sheath or screen is deemed
sufficient to cause the protection to operate should a vehicle collision crush the cable. This
eliminates the need to determine if it is safe to earth each cover individually depending upon the
particular situation.

Jute served steel wire armoured cables are a special case. If a combined earthing system
arrangement can be established by a site specific earthing design for the UGOH then the
arrangement is satisfactory. Earthing & Insulation Coordination can assess particular situations
where this cannot be achieved and provide recommendations as required.

An earthing design shall be produced in NEOn for the earthing of the cable sheath/screen for each
11 kV UGOH.

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7.1.13 Metallic LV cable covers on wood poles

As most LV cables do not have an earthed sheath/screen, their metallic cable covers shall be
bonded to a (correctly identified) LV neutral. This is intended to reduce the risk that a phase-to-
cover fault will not clear. Simply earthing the cover locally may not ensure sufficient fault current to
clear the fault.

7.1.14 Metallic cable covers on conductive poles

Earthing designs shall be referred to Ausgrid/Earthing & Insulation Coordination Section.

7.1.15 Provision for future test

Earthing cables shall be arranged to provide a suitable test point with sufficient clearance between
the earth cable and the structure to allow a ‘clip-on’ or ‘tong’ resistance tester to enclose the cable
and check that earthing connections and electrodes remain intact. Annexure E describes the use of
these testers.

7.1.16 Reclosers, regulators and capacitors

Pole mounted reclosers, regulators, enclosed load-break switches and capacitors that can obtain
LV supply from their own voltage transformers should do so. This arrangement eliminates the need
to supply the control equipment from the MEN and is thus a HV only earthing system.

However if this equipment is located in an MEN area, connecting the equipment to a compliant
combined MEN earthing system will solve issues with clearance from MEN and other metallic
structures.

7.1.17 Sub-transmission voltages on conductive poles or poles with earthed

overhead earth wire also carrying distribution equipment
Without a site specific earthing design it is not permissible to allow distribution and subtransmission
earthing systems to be connected together deliberately or inadvertently. Requests for earthing
designs shall be referred to Ausgrid/Earthing & Insulation Coordination Section.

7.1.18 Separation required from HV electrodes

The distance required between a HV electrode and an item of telecommunications plant or other
conductive service or structure shall be calculated using NEOn.

Annexure C gives indicative separation distances. These should be used only as a guide. They
may be inadequate if the soil resistivity in the vicinity is ‘high’ or ‘low on high’, or the MEN network
is limited.

Wherever it is determined that a separation of less than 15 metres is appropriate, the Telstra
Power Co-ordination group should be advised, in writing, of the extent of any hazard zone and the
rationale used to determine it.

7.1.19 Segregated earthing systems

In a segregated earthing system design, the HV equipment is earthed to the HV electrode group
and is at no point bonded to the earthing conductors connecting the LV equipment, neutrals and LV
electrode group.

The required separation between the HV electrode group and the LV electrode group is a function
of the EPR on the HV electrode, the soil resistivity, the allowable voltage on the LV electrodes, and
the size of the MEN. If the other factors remain constant increasing soil resistivity requires
increasing electrode segregation distance.

When a segregated earthing system is used on a Pole Top transformer, a weatherproof zinc-oxide
gapless low voltage arrester must be installed on the transformer LV neutral bushing. The arrester
must be connected between the transformer LV neutral and the transformer tank.

No metalwork or conductors connected to the segregated HV earthing system shall be accessible

to the public under normal circumstances.

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A warning sign shall be attached to advise personnel who may work on or near this earthing
system that the earthing of this item of equipment is segregated and that suitable safe work
methods must be used. Refer to Annexure G.

7.1.20 Street lighting standards

Street lighting standards shall be designed in such a way as to avoid the possibility of reversed
polarity connections creating a hazardous standing voltage on the metallic standard.

These may be either:

 Double insulated and NOT earthed/bonded to the MEN; or

 Bonded to an earth conductor run from the neutral link in the nearest pillar and the active
conductor suitably fused at this pillar.

7.1.21 Substations near electrified rail lines

Substations near electrified rail lines may require a drainage bond, to mitigate corrosion damage to
earth rods and cable sheaths caused by long term exposure to electrolysis associated with stray
traction currents.

The need for drainage bonds and/or other special earthing requirements for substations within 200
metres of electrified rail lines will be assessed and required works specified by Ausgrid’s Earthing &
Insulation Coordination section.

7.2 Basic configuration summary

The local earthing arrangements detailed in Table 1 shall be adopted. Occasionally circumstances
warrant a different design. In such cases any change to these configurations must be approved by
Ausgrid/Earthing & Insulation Coordination Section or designed using NEOn as per Section 8.

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Table 1: Earthing Design – Basic Configuration Summary

Item of Equipment Approved Configuration Details

ABS Handle Equipotential bond Bond handle to metallic or reinforced concrete

mat if at ground level or adjacent pole steps if
operated from an elevated position on the pole.
DO NOT CONNECT TO OTHER HV
EQUIPMENT EARTHING CONNECTIONS.

Substation As per NEOn design. As specified by NEOn design & approved

(PT, kiosk, outdoor, chamber) construction drawing.

Pole Mounted Plant As per NEOn design. As specified by NEOn design & approved
(recloser, regulator, capacitor) construction drawing.

HV cable sheath/screens on UGOH

poles:
- 11kV (on wood poles) As per NEOn design. As specified by NEOn design & approved
construction drawing.

UGOH Steel Cable Cover protecting:

- 11kV (on wood poles) Earthing not required. DO NOT CONNECT TO EARTH
CONDUCTORS.
- LV (on wood poles) LV neutral bond. Bond cable cover to local LV neutral.
- 11kV & LV (on conductive poles) Consult Ausgrid/Earthing &
Insulation Coordination Section
for design specifications.

PT on Consult Ausgrid/Earthing &

Conductive Poles Insulation Coordination Section
for design specifications.

Surge Arrester at:

- HV UGOH As per NEOn design. As specified by NEOn design & approved
construction drawing.
- HV CCT < 50 ohms. Local HV only electrode group.

Sub-transmission voltages on: Consult Ausgrid/Earthing &

Conductive poles, Insulation Coordination Section
or for design specifications.
Poles with earthed OHEW
also carrying distribution equipment.

Pole Stay Wires Isolate. Install a stay wire insulator a minimum of 3m

above ground.

DO NOT CONNECT TO EARTH

CONDUCTORS.

Single Wire Earth Return (SWER) Consult Ausgrid/Earthing &

Insulation Coordination Section
(limit continuous earth rise – ie: under for design specifications.
normal conditions to 20V).

Other distribution equipment including Consult Ausgrid/Earthing &

that supplied at other primary Insulation Coordination Section
distribution voltages – 5kV, 22kV and for design specifications.
33kV.

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8.0 DESIGN PROCESS

8.1 NEOn to be used for all designs
To manage the design of earthing systems for distribution equipment, Ausgrid has developed a
design tool and database called ‘NEOn’ (Network Earthing Online).

NEOn shall be used by Ausgrid’s and ASPs’ Earthing Designers for the design of earthing systems
for all distribution equipment that:

 requires an earthing design (as per Section 7, table 1), and

 connects to the Ausgrid network.
For the purpose of this Network Standard the term Earthing Designer refers to the person in the
process of carrying out the earthing design. They could be a person whose main function is doing
earthing designs or a person carrying out the function as and when required.

Also, for the purpose of this Network Standard, the term Electrical Designer refers to Ausgrid’s
Officers who carry out the planning and design of Ausgrid’s capital/non-contestable works. It also
refers to Level 3 ASPs who carry out the design of contestable works.

A major objective of this standard is to establish a systematic way of recording and archiving
earthing related information for use as part of network operations and maintenance. To realise this
aim and recognising the need to systematically gather data for use in the design process, this
standard sets out in separate documents the processes required to be followed.

For non-contestable/capital work, the reference document is CIA 107 – Basic Distribution
Equipment Earthing Design Process for Non-Contestable/Capital Work.

For Contestable works contact Ausgrid's representative facilitating the contestable project.

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9.0 EARTHING SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION

9.1 General
When working near underground assets comply with WorkCover’s Guideline to Work near
Underground Assets and all Ausgrid requirements (Refer to NS156 Working Near or Around
Underground Cables).

Maximum use should be made of the mechanical plant available for installing earthing systems.
However, hand excavation must be used where utility services or obstructions exist, at least until it
is clear that mechanical equipment can be safely employed.

9.2 Utility services and obstructions

Be aware of the possibility of underground pipes, cables etc, belonging not only to Ausgrid but also
to other utilities. Before digging, boring or driving electrodes into unknown ground it is essential to
check on the location of any underground services in the vicinity.

To determine if underground service assets exist in a particular location, contact the Dial Before
You Dig service, telephone 1100 (business hours), or internet [Link]. This
is a free service, providing information on which utility has an interest in a particular location and
the relevant contact details.

In all locations in Ausgrid’s network franchise area the requirements of NS156 apply for
routine/urgent/emergency earthing installation. When plans are not sourced via a Dial Before You
Dig enquiry, they are to be obtained directly from the asset owner, or other precautions taken to
determine the presence of underground assets.

Where doubt exists as to the presence and location of obstructions, pipes, or cables, excavation
should be carried out by hand to a depth of at least 900mm, or until rock or shale is encountered.

Check all the necessary utilities' underground construction plans, to identify where the underground
construction is located, before earthing installation begins.

9.3 Physical earthing system layout

The physical layout of earthing systems shall comply with the appropriate standard construction
drawings for the equipment in question (refer Annexure A) and with the detailed design
specifications from NEOn.

This will ensure that the earthing system shall:

 comply with step, touch and transfer voltage requirements,

 provide adequate separation from other utility’s systems, and
 provide suitable protection against mechanical damage.
Where compliance is impractical, alternatives may be sought in consultation with Ausgrid/Earthing
& Insulation Coordination Section.

9.4 Earthing materials - general

Materials utilised in the installation of an earthing system shall:

 have minimal environmental impact,

 be resistant to and/or minimise corrosion,
 be physically robust,
 be suitable for their design purpose and design life,
 be of a type-tested design as appropriate, and
 be of an approved type.

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9.4.1 Earthing conductors

Earthing conductors utilised in the installation of an earthing system have the following
requirements:

 70mm2 PVC/XLPE insulated stranded copper conductor shall be used both above and below
ground.

 Insulation shall be 0.6/1kV rated, UV stabilised, black PVC/XLPE for exposed situations (e.g.
pole downleads).

 Insulation may be 0.6/1kV rated, non UV stabilised, green and yellow PVC for unexposed
situations (e.g. below ground, chamber substations, etc).

 Aluminium shall not be used as a buried earthing conductor. 95mm2 PVC/XLPE insulated
aluminium conductor shall be used above ground where specified in standard construction
drawings.

 Stainless steel bolts shall not form part of a current carrying circuit. They will only be used to
clamp current carrying components together.

9.4.2 Earthing electrodes

Earthing electrodes utilised in the installation of an earthing system have the following
requirements:

 Driven electrodes shall be an assembly of 15mm diameter copper coated (clad or

electroplated) steel rods.

 Earthing conductors shall be connected to each electrode by two approved compression P

crimps installed in compliance with the manufacturer’s guidelines. Bolted, welded or brazed
connections shall not be used.

 Earthing conductors shall be connected together by two approved compression C crimps

installed in compliance with the manufacturer’s guidelines. Bolted, welded or brazed
connections shall not be used.

 The electrodes within a group are to be interconnected with continuous PVC insulated stranded
copper conductor.

 Where it is not possible to drive copper-coated steel rod electrodes, boreholes shall be drilled
which shall accommodate a 70mm2 bare stranded copper conductor to act as an electrode. A
copper-coated steel electrode may be attached to the end of the conductor to assist in lowering
the conductor into the hole.

 Boreholes shall be backfilled as described in Clause 9.4.4.

 Reinforced concrete footings, slabs and piers may be used as earthing electrodes in specific
cases if a site specific earthing system design has been completed and approved by Ausgrid.

9.4.3 Above ground earthing conductor connections

Above ground earthing conductor connections utilised in the installation of an earthing system have
the following requirements:

 Shall be of an approved type.

 Appropriate bi-metal terminations shall be used where required.

 Aluminium conductors where jointed to copper conductors shall be installed above the copper
conductor to prevent galvanic action and pitting from copper salts washing over the aluminium
bodied connector.

9.4.4 Earthing backfill compounds

Drilled electrode holes shall be backfilled with a traditional earthing backfill compound (i.e. a
mixture of bentonite and gypsum such as ‘Good Earth’ or another approved equivalent product).

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Bentonite expands as it absorbs and retains water. This ensures good contact between the
installed earthing electrode and the surrounding soil, and lowers the electrode’s resistance. The
compound should be installed as follows and in keeping with any instructions from the
manufacturer:

 The earthing compound slurry shall be mixed in compliance with the manufacturer’s
recommendations and poured into the drilled hole around the installed electrode. The electrode
shall be agitated to eliminate voids remaining in the slurry.

 The compound shall not be installed dry.

 Neither salt enriched earthing compounds nor ‘rock salt’ treatment of the electrode installation
shall be used as a method of (temporarily) lowering the electrode’s resistance.

9.4.5 Prevention of contact

The following requirements should help to prevent contact:

 On wood poles, UV stabilised black plastic cover strip shall be utilised to prevent contact with
above-ground earthing conductors within 2.4m of ground level.

 Below ground, PVC cover strip or conduit shall be used to protect and identify earthing
conductors that are not installed within Ausgrid’s distribution substation easements or beneath
other cables in Ausgrid’s cable allocations.

 Additional requirements to prevent theft of earthing conductor may be specified in standard

construction drawings.

9.5 Installation methods

9.5.1 Earthing arrangements
Local earthing for distribution equipment is generally one or more vertically driven or drilled
electrodes interconnected with earthing cable.

 Driven rod electrodes – shall be 15mm diameter copper coated (clad or electroplated) steel
rods. The first rod of each electrode shall be fitted with a hardened steel driving point. Rods
must be joined with the approved friction joint couplings. The minimum electrode length is 5
metres (e.g. three 1800mm rods produce a 5.4m electrode).

 Drilled electrodes – shall be bare 70mm2 stranded copper cables. They are installed by boring
a clearance hole to a suitable depth. Minimum hole diameters are 35 mm in solid rock, and
50mm in loose rock or clay. Crimping an earth rod or a short length of copper tube to the end of
the electrode cable allows easier installation of the electrode to the bottom of the hole. Slurry
made from an approved earthing compound is then poured into the hole. During the pour, the
electrode should be agitated and/or the slurry tamped to expel any trapped air pockets. Once
the slurry has set it may be necessary to top up the hole. The minimum electrode length is 5
metres.
Note: In some areas greater electrode depths or additional electrodes will be required to
achieve the required earthing system resistance. In some locations with high resistivity
soils, it may be necessary to drill to depths exceeding 10 metres to obtain a suitable
resistance value.

 Electrode Groups – shall be arranged as shown on the appropriate approved drawings.

9.5.2 Electrodes not to be driven after crimping

Compression crimp connections to driven electrodes shall not be made before the electrode is
driven to its final depth as this may result in a substandard connection and is not permitted. The
crimp connections to the electrode shall be made within the excavated trench with the top of the
electrode 500mm below finished ground level.

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9.5.3 Earthing not to encroach on other allocations

Earth installations shall be designed and installed to ensure they do not encroach on the footpath /
street allocations of other public utilities. Street allocations are specified in NS130 Specification for
Laying Underground Cables up to and including 11kV.

9.5.4 Earth and neutral bar connections

Cable connections to the substation earth bar must be made with bolts, washers and nuts of the
sizes specified in the drawings. Where the bolt size is not specified the bolt and bar hole must be of
an appropriate size consistent with the diameter of the hole in the lug being attached. Each cable
lug must be separately connected under its own bolt or bolts. Cable lugs must be connected
directly to the bar. It may be necessary for additional holes to be drilled in the bar. Connection
extension pieces, such as bar stubs or flags must not be used for cable connections. Slotted lugs
are not permitted. Full hole compression lugs must be used. Bolts, washers and nuts must be
stainless steel grade 316. Lug holes must not be enlarged to accommodate larger bolts. Brass
bolts must not be used.

9.5.5 Stainless bolts – lubrication of threads

Before installation of each stainless steel bolt or set-screw, the thread shall be lubricated with
specially formulated anti-seize grease containing nickel (eg Loctite Nickel Anti-Seize, or approved
equivalent). Ausgrid stockcode is 177212.

9.6 If a certified design cannot be achieved

If, for some reason, the certified design earthing requirements (as specified in this Network
Standard or the relevant drawings and specifications) cannot be achieved, the Earthing
Installer/ASP Compliance Officer shall contact Ausgrid/Earthing & Insulation Coordination Section.
Adequate time must be allowed to enable an alternative design arrangement to be developed. In
such cases the Earthing Installer will be required to obtain Ausgrid’s approval for any design
changes. The reasons for these changes to design requirements shall be recorded in NEOn.

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10.0 EARTHING SYSTEM COMMISSIONING

10.1 General Requirements
The Earthing Installer shall carry out tests as necessary to demonstrate compliance with the
requirements of this Network Standard. ‘Tests’ shall include all checks, measurements and tests
necessary to prove compliance.

All test equipment and instrumentation used for testing shall be traceable to a National Association
of Testing Authorities (NATA) Registered Laboratory and have a current test sticker affixed. The
Earthing Installer is responsible for ensuring that test equipment and instrumentation used is
traceable.

10.2 Earthing resistance commissioning tests

In addition to an inspection of the earthing configuration, two local earthing system resistance tests
shall be performed as outlined in this section. The results will be recorded and compared with the
specified design requirements. Refer to Annexure E regarding testing details.

10.2.1 Earthing configuration inspection

This inspection shall confirm that the earthing configuration complies with the design specification
from NEOn that accompanied the authorised electrical design. In particular this inspection shall
confirm that the earthing has been constructed as per the standard construction drawing specified
and that all the earthing systems components have been configured and connected as specified.

10.2.2 Three point / fall of potential - resistance test

The Three Point test (or Two Point test if a Three Point test cannot be achieved) shall be
conducted on the installed electrode groups before other earthing system elements are connected
(e.g. HV cable sheaths or the MEN).

This test shall confirm that the local earthing complies with the acceptable range of design values
as provided by the Earthing Design Specification & As Built Installation Report from NEOn.

10.2.3 Loop (clip-on tong) - resistance test

A clip-on tong test shall also be conducted once the earthing system is in its final ‘in-service’
configuration. The results of this test shall be recorded in NEOn and will be available should a
simple in-service diagnostic check of the earthing system be required in the future. Comparing
subsequent clip-on test results with the ‘as commissioned’ clip-on test results should indicate if the
resistance of the local earthing has changed significantly.

This test shall tong the connection to the HV electrode group and then the connection to the LV
electrode group.

If the substation has a segregated earthing arrangement this test shall only be conducted after
checking that no hazardous standing voltage exists between the HV and LV earth bars (should a
hazardous voltage exist it must be immediately reported to Ausgrid/Earthing & Insulation
Coordination Section). To perform this test on a segregated earthing system a temporary jumper
lead must be installed between the HV and LV groups. This test assumes that the impedance of
the MEN is small compared to that of the local electrodes.

10.3 Reporting
Following commissioning of the earthing installation, certain procedures are to be followed in order
to record and archive earthing related information for use in operations and maintenance.

For non-contestable/capital work, the reference document is CIA 107 Basic Distribution Equipment
Earthing Design Process for Non-Contestable/Capital Work.

For Contestable works please contact Ausgrid's representative facilitating the contestable project.

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11.0 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

In addition to the roles and responsibilities defined by other applicable Ausgrid standards, the
following roles are important for the successful completion of earthing systems:

Electrical Designer

The Electrical Designer will provide specific information on the requirements for each particular
project to the Earthing Designer.

Earthing Designer

The Earthing Designer will generally obtain information related to designing earthing systems from
the Electrical Designer. The Earthing Designer will incorporate this information in NEOn and they
must understand the principles by which earthing systems perform, in particular the interactions
between various energy sources and systems and the full range of fault current paths.

It would be advantageous if the Earthing Designer is conversant with a range of analysis methods
and tools available, and to understand the physical constraints involved in the installation and
inspection processes in order to specify robust, practical designs that are appropriate for different
situations.

12.0 RECORDKEEPING
The table below identifies the types of records relating to the process, their storage location and
retention period.

Table 2 – Recordkeeping

Type of Record Storage Location Retention Period*

Approved copy of the network BMS Network sub process Standard – Unlimited
standard Company
Draft Copies of the network TRIM Work Folder for Network Unlimited
standard during Standards (Trim ref. 2014/21250/94)
amendment/creation
Working documents (emails, TRIM Work Folder for Network Unlimited
memos, impact assessment Standards (Trim ref. 2014/21250/94)
reports, etc.)

* The following retention periods are subject to change eg if the records are required for legal
matters or legislative changes. Before disposal, retention periods should be checked and
authorised by the Records Manager.

13.0 AUTHORITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

For this network standard the authorities and responsibilities of Ausgrid employees and managers
in relation to content, management and document control of this network standard can be obtained
from the Company Procedure (Network) – Production/Review of Network Standards. The
responsibilities of persons for the design or construction work detailed in this network standard are
identified throughout this standard in the context of the requirements to which they apply.

14.0 DOCUMENT CONTROL

Content Coordinator : Earth and Insulation Coordination Manager

Distribution Coordinator : Engineering Information and Services Manager

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Annexure A – Standard Construction Drawings

Equipment Type/
Drawing Title
Drawing No
Capacitor
162475 Sheet 1 Standard construction 11kV pole top capacitors construction detail
162475 Sheet 2 Standard construction 11kV pole top capacitors modification to EDO pole construction
detail
Enclosed Switch
170234 Standard construction 11 kV Nulec RL Series Pole Mounted Enclosed Switch General
Arrangement
Recloser
220041 Standard construction 11 kV S&C Intellirupter PulseCloser Without bypass ABS General
Arrangement
220251 Standard construction 11 kV S&C Intellirupter PulseCloser With bypass ABS General
Arrangement
224228 Standard construction 11 kV S&C Intellirupter PulseCloser Controlling Pole Mounted
Regulators
General Arrangement
Regulator
224227 Standard construction 11 kV pole mounted voltage regulator with controlling Intellirupter
General Arrangement
224401 Standard construction 2 unit pole mounted regulator with ground mounted control panel
224402 Standard construction 2 unit pole mounted regulator with pole mounted control panel
224229 Standard construction 3 unit pole mounted regulator with ground mounted control panel
Substation – Chamber
25121 Chamber substation earthing typical installation of electrodes
Substation – Kiosk
167433 Standard construction kiosk substation – combined HV/LV typical earthing details
167434 Standard construction multiple kiosk substation – combined HV/LV typical earthing details
173990 Standard construction multiple kiosk substation – segregated HV/LV typical earthing
details
151572 Type L kiosk Layout option plan
151573 Type J kiosk Layout option plan
151190 Type K kiosk Layout option plan
224403 Danger Sign Distribution Substation With Segregated Earth
Substation – Pole
228821 Standard Construction 3 phase – 11 kV Pole mounted Distribution substation 0-400 kVA
General Arrangement
228822 Three Phase PT combined and segregated earthing
228831 Standard Construction 1 phase – 11 kV Pole mounted Distribution substation 0-63 kVA
General Arrangement
228832 Single Phase PT combined and segregated earthing
224403 Danger Sign Distribution Substation With Segregated Earth
UGOH
160354 11kV underground to overhead (UG/OH) construction – combined earthing or HV only

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Annexure B – Application for Access to NEOn

Application for Access to NEOn

Applicant’s Name: (Earthing Designer)

Section:

Phone Number:

Mobile Number:

Email address:

Postal Address:

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Annexure C – Separation between Distribution Equipment Earthing

Systems and Telecommunications Plant
C1 Background
To protect telecommunication workers, and to prevent damage to telecommunication equipment,
the prospective touch voltage, in the vicinity of any telecommunication plant (eg pit, pillar, cabinet,
public telephone, exchange), caused by HV power distribution system earth faults, needs to be
limited to 430 volts (or 1000 volts depending upon the situation). This particularly applies to faults
associated with HV earthing systems.

The voltage rise on an earth grid (and surrounding soil) is a product of the (fault) current that
actually enters the soil at that point, and the resistance of the earth grid. Generally only a fraction of
the fault current actually flows through the soil. The bulk of the fault current usually returns to its
source via metallic circuits such as LV neutrals and cable sheaths. The proportion of the fault
current that flows through the earth is dependent on the impedance of the return path via LV
neutrals, cable sheaths, etc, and the resistance of the earth grid. The soil voltage rise decreases
rapidly as the distance from the earth grid increases, however the rate at which it decreases
depends on the soil resistivity.

Thus the distance between any telecommunication plant and any adjacent earthing system,
associated with Ausgrid’s HV network, needs to be carefully considered when earthing design
parameters change. This applies to all accessible telecommunications plant including jointing pits,
service pits, manholes, pillars and cabinets containing cables with metallic conductors. Buried
telecommunications cables with conductive sheaths also need to be considered.

C2 Separation between HV earthing systems and telecommunications

plant
C2.1 Approximate radial extent of 430 V hazard zone
Table C1 defines the separations that are useful as an initial guide to the required separation
between the HV system earth grids associated with Ausgrid HV earthing systems and
telecommunication plant, unless reduced separations can be justified in accordance with Clause
C2.2.

Note: These values do not consider the effect of soil resistivity layering and are not
conservative in certain circumstances.

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Table C1: Indicative Radial Extent of 430 Volt Hazard Zone

Approximate Radial Extent of

Type of HV Earthing System 430V Hazard Zone
(m)

1. 66 kV and 132 kV transmission and distribution system towers, 40

conductive poles and wooden poles with associated earth
electrodes.

(a) If HV system structures are fitted with a continuous and 15

regularly earthed overhead earth wire (OHEW).

(b) If HV wooden poles are fitted with OHEW with insulated 2.5
down leads and deep-buried earth electrodes insulated to
a depth of 4m.

2. Distribution systems less than 66 kV - conductive poles and 15

wooden poles with associated earth electrode (including
pole-mounted transformers).

(a) If HV system structures are fitted with a continuous and 5

regularly earthed OHEW.

(b) If HV system structure supporting a distribution substation 5

has: (refer also to Clause C2.2
(i) Combined earthing system, and below)
(ii) Interconnected LV neutral conductor, and
(iii) MEN earthing system.

3. Kiosk distribution transformers, and pad-mounted RMU 15

switchgear.

(a) If fed by a HV cable with cable sheath continuity from zone 5

substation earth grid to kiosk substation earth.

(b) If substation has: 5

(i) Combined earthing system, and (refer also to Clause C2.2
(ii) Interconnected LV neutral conductor, and below)

(iii) MEN earthing system.

4. Direct buried HV cables with uninsulated sheath. 0.5

5. Zone and transmission substations. Refer Ausgrid/ Earthing &

Insulation Coordination Section.

C2.2 Reduced hazard zones associated with MEN installations

Where there is:

 a continuous and extensive LV neutral grid forming a return path to the HV earthing system,
and

 the HV and LV earthing systems are combined at the distribution substation,

it is likely that the maximum earth potential rise may not exceed 430V and no hazard would exist.
However, this must be demonstrated on a case-by-case basis.

Where, after considering the specific characteristics of individual cases, it can be shown that no
hazard zone exists, the separations shown in 2(b) and 3(b) in Table C1 above, may be reduced to
the minimum nominal separation of 0.5 m.

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C2.3 Deep/insulated earthing

Insulated earth conductors may be utilised to achieve suitable separations. For example, where
horizontal separation is not practicable, a suitable separation may be achieved by installing deep
earthing (e.g. 20 m) and insulating the earthing system to within the hazard zone (e.g. to a depth of
15 m).

C2.4 Detailed calculation or site specific testing

Where the conditions are such (e.g. low on very high soil resistivity) that the separations stated in
the above table are inappropriate, detailed calculation or site-specific testing may be carried out to
accurately determine the actual location of the 430 volt contour relative to the earthing system.
Agreement shall be sought from the relevant telecommunication company that this shall be the
minimum separation for that specific installation.

C3 References
 AS/NZS 3835.1:2006 Earth potential rise - Protection of telecommunications network users,
personnel and plant - Code of practice

 AS/NZS 3835.2:2006 Earth potential rise - Protection of telecommunications network users,

personnel and plant - Application guide

 Code of Practice for the Protection of Personnel and Equipment Against Earth Potential Rises
Caused by High Voltage Power System Faults (EPR CODE) 1984

 HB 219:2006 Earth potential rise - Protection of telecommunications network users,

personnel and plant - Worked examples for the application guide

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Annexure D – Soil Resistivities (indicative only)

Soil resistivity (ρ) is a measure of the resistance of the soil across a theoretical cubic metre with
electrodes of one square metre on either side.

Note: Soil resistivity is expressed in ohm metres, not ohms per metre. It is sometimes wrongly
described as specific resistance.
Soil resistivity varies depending upon the physical nature of the soil, its chemical composition,
dissolved salts and moisture content. Soil resistivity is often layered (e.g. ‘high-on-low’ or ‘low-on-
high’). Table D1 below gives an idea of the types of soils and typical ranges of resistivity.

Table D1 Soil Resistivity Ranges

Soil ρ (ohm metres)

Swampy earth 10

Clays 8 to 50

Clay, sand and gravel mix 40 to 250

Sand and gravel 60 to 100

Broken slate,shale and sandstone 10 to 500

Rock 200 to 10 000

When the resistivity is not known, a value of 100 ohm metres is often taken to be representative of
an average soil with a moisture content of around 25%. Lowering the moisture content to 5% can
raise the resistivity to 500 ohm metres. Completely dry soil can have a resistivity of thousands of
ohm metres. An indication of variation of resistivity with moisture is given in Table D2 below.

Table D2 Effect of Moisture on Soil Resistivity

Soil ρ (ohm metres)

Mud or coal 1

Wet soil 10

Moist soil 100

Dry soil 1 000

Rock 10 000

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Annexure E – Guidance for Testing

E1 Introduction
Earthing systems are tested to ensure they comply with safety and protection design requirements,
and earthing tests are applicable at design, commissioning and maintenance stages. This section
addresses the requirements and procedures for design and commissioning tests only.

Note: When performing resistance measurements of earthing systems of installations in

service, it is very important that no earth connections are broken. Opening earth
connections of installations in service constitute a safety hazard.
If there is a need to disconnect earths while performing resistance measurements in service,
Ausgrid/Earthing & Insulation Coordination Section should be consulted before proceeding.

E2 Staged earthing tests

The information needed during the design and commissioning stages is shown in Table E1.

Table E1: Staged Tests

Stage
Information
Design Commissioning

Soil resistivity √

Earthing Interconnectivity √ √

Local Earthing impedance √

An adequate set of tests to determine this information is outlined in Clause E3.

E3 Test methods
The test methods shown in Table E2 are sufficient to design and assess most distribution
equipment earthing installations. Installations which cannot be satisfactorily tested using these
methods shall be identified and alternative testing or assessment methods documented in the
earthing design report.

Table E2: Test Methods

Test Test Method Reference Earthing Configuration:

Combined Segregated

Soil Resistivity 4 pin Wenner Clause E4 √ √

Earthing 4 terminal continuity Clause E5 √ √

Interconnectivity
Insulation resistance Clause E6 √ √

Local earthing Loop Clause E7 √ √

impedance
Three terminal /
Clause E8 √ √
Fall of Potential

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Testing responsibilities are shown in Table E3.

Table E3: Testing Responsibilities

Responsible
Test
Earthing Designer Earthing installer

Soil Resistivity √

Earthing Interconnectivity √ √

Local earthing impedance √

E4 Soil resistivity – Wenner 4 pin method

E4.1 Introduction

The accuracy of soil resistivity data has a direct impact upon the accuracy of the earthing design
and the performance of the resulting installation.

The 4 pin Wenner method is generally the most direct means of determining soil resistivity to the
required level of accuracy. Clause E4.8 discusses solutions to difficulties with the Wenner method.

NEOn provides a Wenner soil resistivity training video and a test sheet which can be used to
record field measurements. The following sections outline the information which must be collected.

Each test instrument has capabilities and limitations. Clause E4.9 outlines a procedure to assess
whether a test instrument will be suitable to measure the majority of soil types encountered across
the Ausgrid region.

There are three main stages when undertaking a soil resistivity test: preparation, test execution and
data storage.

E4.2 When and where to test

An Earthing Designer will specify when a soil resistivity test is required and a general location. The
request for soil resistivity testing will usually be to assist in the earthing design of a particular
distribution asset. Staff undertaking the test will determine the exact test location based on the
advice in the following sections.

E4.3 Preparation

Gathering the following information about a proposed test location in advance will reduce the risk of
any surprises.

E4.3.1 Geological issues

Awareness of the rocks and soil types particular to the site enables the technician to tailor the test
to encompass any geological features which may aid or cause problems with the earthing system.
Features like rivers, causeways, rocks and the basic soil type should be noted as part of the
testing.

E4.3.2 Meteorological issues

Soil resistivity is particularly affected by soil moisture. If the test is undertaken during unusual
seasonal conditions then this should be noted. It is generally not ideal to test immediately after
heavy rain as the test results will invariably be an optimistic representation of the resistivity during
normal dry conditions. In any case, it is important to note the date and amount of the most recent
rain so that this information can be considered when analysing the results.

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E4.3.3 Site infrastructure and test locations

Any metallic infrastructure in the vicinity of the test site will affect resistivity measurements as the
test current will tend to follow the metal rather than flow through the earth. Electrically energised
systems can also introduce interference to the test measurements through inductive and capacitive
coupling. Examples of metalwork that may pose problems include:

 existing earthing systems

 pipes: gas, water, sewage
 tanks: water, fuel, other storage
 railway lines
 metal fences
 concrete reinforced slabs
 electrical services
 telecommunication services
Test locations should be chosen to avoid traverses parallel to existing metallic infrastructure.

The Dial Before You Dig service (phone: 1100) can assist in determining the presence of existing
buried structures.

For new installations, where there is no existing metalwork, the location of each test traverse is
simply determined by the position of the planned earthing system.

In many cases, testing the exact site of the new work is not feasible as existing metalwork will
interfere with the results. The approach in these situations is to undertake test traverses close
enough to the site, so as to get a useful indication of its soil resistivity model, yet far enough away
to avoid interference from existing metalwork. In most cases a separation distance of at least 50m
between the test electrodes and any existing metalwork will suffice. It is important that the location
of any existing conductive structures in contact with the soil is noted in relation to each test traverse
so that this information can be considered when analysing results. Doing multiple test traverses at
different locations surrounding the site of interest will allow the Earthing Designer to better assess
what the soil resistivity is likely to be at the site itself.

Figure E1 suggests two test points that might be considered for an industrial type subdivision.

Figure E1. Example Test Points for Typical Industrial Type Subdivision

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E4.4 Test equipment

The following list of test equipment is adequate for most sites.

 A 4 terminal tester (refer to Clause E4.9 for further information about the selection of a suitable
tester).

 Minimum four electrodes. More electrodes may be required to form a system of interconnected
probes in high resistivity locations.

 Minimum four lengths of conductor, insulated to the output rating of the test instrument and of
sufficient length to undertake a 32m spacing test. A colour coded arrangement can ease onsite
testing. (eg: One reel with a 48m red lead followed by a 16m blue lead and a second reel with a
48m white lead followed by a 16m green lead).

 Assorted short leads and plugs/clips used to make the connections between the electrodes and
the meter.

 Two 30m measuring tapes.

 Hammers for driving electrodes.

 20 litres of water to improve the contact resistance of the test electrodes in dry, high resistivity
locations.

 A set of two-way radios can be advantageous in areas where the technician's line of site is
impaired by obstacles or rough terrain.
E4.5 Test execution

E4.5.1 Test configuration

The Wenner 4 pin test configuration is shown in Figure E2.

Figure E2. Wenner Test Configuration

Four copper clad steel electrodes are uniformly spaced along a straight line through the Test Point.

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The test is performed by injecting a current through electrodes C1 and C2. The soil resistivity meter
is then able to determine a soil resistance 'R', using the injected current and the voltage between
electrodes P1 and P2. The apparent resistivity '' of the test point can then be calculated as
follows:

  2aR
The test is repeated for a wide range of electrode spacings 'a', to obtain an apparent soil resistivity
profile of the site.

A feature of the Wenner test is its reciprocity. This means interchanging the connection of
electrodes C1 with P1 and C2 with P2 should not change the result. This is a useful error checking
tool when used as part of the testing.

E4.5.2 Test Electrode Depth and Spacing

There are two competing issues when determining electrode depth. Point source assumptions
require shallow electrode depths whereas electrode resistance and finite instrument drive
capabilities require deeper electrode depths. On balance, the following rules are adequate for
instruments meeting the assessment process of Clause E4.9.

 For electrode spacings of up to 8m, the electrode depth should be just enough for the soil to
support the weight of the electrode.

 For electrode spacings greater than 8m, increase electrode depth whilst keeping the force
required to remove the electrode within reasonable limits and considering other possible buried
assets.
Test results are obtained at various electrode spacings to enable the Earthing Designer to
determine a model of the soil resistivity as a function of depth.

For distribution assets, electrode spacings of 1, 2, 4, 8, 16 and 32 metres are adequate for the
majority of installations. Intermediate spacings or greater spacings may be required by the Earthing
Designer if issues arise during testing such as those in Clause E4.8.

E4.5.3 Apparent Resistivity

It is important to plot the apparent resistivity versus the electrode spacing as the test is undertaken.
This allows interference or errors to be identified and rectified with minimal effort during the test.

When plotted on log-log paper, the curve should be smooth and tend to flatten out at very small
and very large spacings. Wild variations in results normally suggest something has gone wrong. In
these cases, different electrode spacings or a different test location should be considered. Clause
E4.8 contains more details on issues and solutions.

Figure E3 illustrates the apparent resistivity curve of a two-layer soil structure.

Figure E3. Typical Apparent Resistivity Curve - Two Layer Soil Structure

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E4.6 Test procedure steps

This step-by-step procedure should be read in conjunction with a test sheet template. The test
sheet template can be found in Annexure F.

1. Record the project particulars in the space provided at the top of the test sheet. Particular
attention should be paid to recording the amount and timing of recent rain as well as a brief
description of the geology (eg. sandy top soil on clay base).

2. GPS coordinates or other location information should be recorded which will allow the
specific test to be located precisely on a map.

3. Sketch the test location and the position of any metalwork or geographical features (eg.
water courses, large rocks etc). Record approximate distances between all metalwork and
the test electrodes. Note that the electrodes will extend to almost 100m for 32m electrode
spacings.

4. Run out two cables in opposite directions to connect to the outer electrodes. Note that up
to 48m of cable will be required in each direction for the 32m electrode spacings. Run out
the other cables to connect to the inner electrodes.

5. Measure the probe spacings for the first measurement (1m). Note that the middle probe
spacing is split either side of the test point as shown in Figure E2. Drive each probe to the
specified depth according to the rules of Clause E4.5.2.

6. Connect the probes to the test meter as shown in Figure E2 (C1,P1,P2,C2) and record the
resistance value. Swap the potential and current leads (P1,C1,C2,P2) and record the
resistance value again. Both values should be within twenty percent. Check the electrodes
if there is a significant difference in the two readings.

7. Calculate the apparent resistivity for this electrode spacing and plot the results on the log-
log paper. The curve should be smooth and tend to flatten out for very small and very large
spacings.

8. Reconnect the test in the original configuration (C1,P1,P2,C2) and move the electrodes to
the next spacing. Continue for each electrode spacing specified in Clause E4.5.2.

E4.7 Test recording and filing

After completing a soil resistivity test, soil resistivity results must be entered into the soil resistivity
section of NEOn. Each measurement is to be entered. The test sheet, including any sketches is to
be scanned in and attached.

E4.8 Testing issues

Generally any difficulty that may be experienced while undertaking a soil resistivity test can be
simplified to three primary causes.

 High electrode impedance compared to instrument voltage/current capability and instrument

detection sensitivity.
 Interference from nearby infrastructure.
 Test configuration problems.
E4.8.1 Problems and their solutions
While most test instruments offer a range of diagnostic output which should be checked during
each measurement, the test instrument cannot detect every condition that may cause an error.
Table E4 lists a number of possible issues which should be kept in mind when a test is undertaken.

Consult the test instrument instructions for the interpretation and resolution of instrument diagnostic
output.

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Table E4: Test Trouble-shooting Guide

Problem Category of problem Solutions

Test instrument displays high High electrode impedance. Install electrodes further into soil.
impedance electrode or current Wet soil about electrodes.
too low.
Install additional electrodes in
parallel.

Measurement is unstable or High electrode impedance, Try solutions above.

fluctuates. Interference. Rotate test ninety degrees.
Relocate test.

Measurement difference when High electrode impedance, Try solutions above.

reversing lead configuration. Test configuration problem. Check that electrodes are in line.
Check that electrodes are
connected to the instrument
properly.
Check that electrodes and
connections are in serviceable
condition and that instrument is
functioning properly.

Sudden changes in resistivity on High electrode impedance, Check solutions above.

resistivity Vs spacing plot. Test configuration problem, Re-check for buried metal work.
Interference. Take additional measurements
either side of disturbance and see
if it is localised.
Relocate test.

E4.8.2 Electrode impedance

If electrode impedance is suspected to be too high, an approximate measurement of electrode
impedance can be made by simply making minor configuration changes as shown in Table E5. No
electrodes need be moved for this check.

For instruments that have been assessed using Clause E4.9 the ratio of electrode impedance to
the measured resistance can be checked. This ratio should be less than 1000.

For example, if a measurement is made where the instrument displays 0.7 Ohms then each probe
impedance can be up to 0.7x1000 = 700 Ohms.

All test instruments have an upper limit on the ratio rule due to the maximum voltage available at
the instrument’s output. This limit varies from instrument to instrument, however a maximum
electrode impedance of 20kOhms is reasonable.

Electrode impedance ratio rule

Electrode impedance can be up to the smaller value of:

 1000 x measured resistance.
 20k Ohms.

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Table E5: Approximate method for finding electrode impedances

Test configuration Electrode impedance

Instrument will display the

approximate impedance of the C1
electrode.

Instrument will display the

approximate impedance of the P1
electrode.

Instrument will display the

approximate impedance of the C2
electrode.

Instrument will display the

approximate impedance of the P2
electrode.

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Occasionally using the Wenner 4 pin test and trying the techniques shown in Table E4 will not work
for a particular installation. The process to follow for these sites is shown in Figure E4.

Contact Ausgrid/Earthing &

Ausgrid/Earthing & Insulation Coordination
Wenner 4 pin test not Insulation Coordination Section consultation:
able to be undertaken. Section Consider options, such
as deep driven rod
bore test and database
sensitivity analysis.

Figure E4. Process where the Wenner 4 pin test has failed.

E4.9 Test instrument assessment

A range of instruments are available which are suitable for Wenner 4 pin soil resistivity testing.
Whilst ease of use, robustness and cost are important considerations for the purchaser of the
instrument, the following instrument assessment criterion is essential to ensure the instrument has
the required drive capability and measurement sensitivity for compatibility with the majority of soil
types across the Ausgrid network.

This instrument assessment is an acceptable minimum. Compliance with the assessment does not
guarantee that an instrument will perform acceptably under every possible circumstance. An
operator must always consider if any of the issues listed in Clause E4.8 are applicable.

E4.9.1 Assessment circuit

The assessment circuit consists of five resistors connected as shown in Figure E5. The
assessment circuit approximates test conditions consisting of 32m electrode spacings, 3000Ohm.m
surface soil resistivity and a minimum electrode depth of 150mm.

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15kΩ
Instrument under test.
C1

15kΩ
Instrument under test.
P1

15Ω
All resistors:
Tolerance: 1%
Rating: ½ Watt
15kΩ
Instrument under test.
P2

15kΩ
Instrument under test.
C2

Figure E5. Instrument assessment circuit diagram

When the instrument is connected to the test circuit it should read within 20% of 15 Ohms.

Different instruments will alert the user to possible accuracy issues at different trigger points. For
example, two different instruments may measure the assessment circuit with the same acceptable
level of accuracy, however one instrument may alert the user to a possible accuracy issue and the
other instrument may not.

An instrument that is capable of measuring the assessment circuit to the required accuracy is
acceptable irrespective of any alerts. However when using the instrument in the field any alert must
be noted and assessed.

E5 Earthing interconnectivity – 4 terminal continuity

E5.1 Introduction

Earthing systems often depend on connections in ways which can be unfamiliar to many electrical
workers. These connections carry current in the event of an earth fault and are critical to the safe
performance of the earthing system. Continuity testing can help in verifying that the connections
will perform as required and when needed.

E5.2 When and where to test

The requirement for a continuity test will be identified by the Earthing Designer and will appear as
special instructions in the earthing specification report for a particular installation. The report will
also contain guidance on the specific connection to test and the allowed range of resistance
values.

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E5.3 Test equipment

The following test equipment is required:

 A 4 terminal tester (Refer to Clause E5.7 for further information about the selection of a
suitable tester).

 Clips and leads.

E5.4 Test Execution

To measure the continuity (resistance) between two points (Refer to Figure E6):

 Place a current clip (C1) and potential clip (P1) one side of the connection to measure. Note
that the current and potential probes must have their own lead and clip.

 Place current clip (C2) and potential clip (P2) at the second point. (Note: The current and
potential probes must have their own lead and clip).

 Activate the instrument to measure the result.

Figure E6. Continuity measurement

E5.5 Test recording and filing

After completing a continuity test, the test sheet and any sketches are to be scanned in and
attached to the related job in NEOn.

A test sheet template can be found in Annexure F.

E5.6 Testing issues

The following points should be checked to make sure that continuity measurements are valid
especially when higher than expected resistance readings are obtained:

 Inadequate current flow – Current probes may not be in contact with a conductive surface, try
cleaning the contact surface.

 Noisy measurement - Potential probes or current probes may not be in contact with a
conductive surface, try cleaning the surface.

E5.7 Test instrument assessment

A 4 terminal test instrument suitable for measuring continuity shall have a minimum measurement
range of 5milliOhms through to 5Ohms with 10% accuracy.

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E6 Earthing interconnectivity - insulation resistance test

E6.1 Introduction

Some distribution equipment earthing installations require that particular components to be isolated
from each other to meet safety requirements. Common examples include segregated earthing
systems for pole mounted and kiosk substations. Elements such as metering, frames and concrete
reinforcement can connect components which appear to be disconnected. An insulation resistance
(IR) test can be used to make sure there is an adequate insulation level between disconnected
components. This form of IR test is also referred to as a Hi-Pot test.

E6.2 When and where to test

The requirement for an IR test will be identified by the Earthing Designer and will appear as special
instructions in the earthing report for a particular installation. The report will also contain guidance
on the specific connection to test and the allowed range of resistance values.

E6.3 Test equipment

The following test equipment is required:

 A two or three terminal high voltage tester (Refer to Clause E6.6 for further information about
the selection of a suitable tester).
 Clips and leads.

E6.4 Test Execution

To measure the insulation resistance between two points:

 Place one probe on each of the two points to measure between.

 Unless specified in the earthing report, there is generally no need to use the guard terminal if a
guard terminal is available.

 Make sure that all personnel are clear of the equipment under test, activate the instrument to
measure the result.
E6.5 Testing issues

The following points should be checked to make sure that IR measurements are valid and testing is
undertaken safely:

 Make sure that probes have good contact with equipment under test.
Maintain safe operation practices including:

 Following manufacturers’ instructions and safety guidance.

 Maintain clearance from equipment under test.
 Make sure instrument is off whenever probes are being connected or disconnected.
 Documenting your safety procedures as part of your Hazard assessment.
E6.6 Test instrument assessment

An IR tester suitable for testing distribution equipment earthing assets will have the following
minimum characteristics:

 Voltage range: 50V – 5kV

 50Hz Noise rejection
 20% accuracy
 Resistance range: 10k Ohm to 10M Ohm
The following maximum current is recommended for safety:

 Maximum short circuit output current 10mA peak, 7mA RMS.

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E7 Local Earthing impedance - loop test

E7.1 Introduction

All earthing systems present some value of impedance to fault current. One part of an earthing
system is the local earthing electrodes installed at a particular installation, an earthing design will
specify a required resistance range which the local electrodes must comply with to meet the
designed targets.

A loop test is one of the fastest methods for assessing the resistance of the local earthing
installation where the configuration allows for a valid loop test.

E7.2 When and where to test

All distribution equipment earthing installations with an earthing design will require a measurement
to determine the resistance of the locally installed earthing electrodes.

Local earthing installations which can be satisfactorily tested using the clip on loop style test must
have a low impedance to earth in parallel with the local earthing electrodes. Distribution systems
which meet this criteria are generally combined earthing systems which have been constructed to
an earthing design and have been fully interconnected via a neutral connection or cable sheath.

When required to be done on segregated earthing systems which do have low MEN resistance
relative to the local electrodes, the procedure specified in Clause E8 should be followed.

Table E6: Loop test applicability summary

When to use the loop test

 To find the impedance of the local electrodes.

 If the installation has a combined earthing system and a NEOn earthing report.

 If the installation has a segregated earthing system with low MEN resistance
relative to the local electrodes, and a NEOn earthing report.

 If connections to neutral / cable sheaths are made.

E7.3 Test equipment

A clamp (tong) style tester with either integrated drive and measurement coils or separate coils.
Refer to Clause E7.6 for further information about the selection of a suitable tester.

Figure F7. Loop testers

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E7.4 Test execution

Execute the test as follows:

 Check the distribution asset is a combined earthing system constructed to an earthing design
report.

 Check neutrals/sheaths are connected.

 Locate the conductor going to an electrode group.

 Clip the loop tester around the identified conductor at a location where all earth bar/link style
connections to the conductor are on one side of the tester and the other side of the tester has
connections only to the electrodes in the electrode group. Refer to Figure E8.

 Activate test instrument and record the resistance measurement for the electrode group.

 A test sheet template can be found in Annexure F.

Connections such
as: Kiosk earth bar
or pole mounted
HV/LV link

Loop test location Soil level

Electrode
group

Figure E8. Loop test location schematic

E7.5 Testing issues

The following points should be checked to make sure that loop test measurements are valid:

 If the test instrument displays noisy current or other errors, another test method may be
required.
 Make sure that the jaws of the test instrument can fully close.
 Make sure that there is no dirt or other obstruction within the jaws.
 An extremely low impedance (< 0.5Ohms) on an individual electrode group is likely to be a
measurement of a fully metallic loop. Recheck the location of the loop tester and the
construction of the earthing system.
E7.6 Test instrument assessment

A loop tester suitable for testing distribution equipment earthing assets will have the following
minimum characteristics:

 Resistance range: 0.3 Ohms to 150 Ohms

 50Hz Noise rejection
 20% accuracy
 Current measurement 50mA to 15A
 Comfortably fit over straight insulated 120mmSq conductor 75mm long.

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E8 Local earthing - three terminal test / fall of potential test

E8.1 Introduction

The three terminal resistance test (sometimes referred to as the fall of potential test) is another
method for determining the resistance of an earthing system. For distribution assets the earthing
system under test are the local earthing electrode groups.

E8.2 When and where to test

All distribution equipment earthing installations with an earthing design will require a measurement
to determine the resistance of the locally installed earthing electrodes.

Unless otherwise specified in the earthing report, a three terminal test will be used to measure the
resistance of the local earthing electrode groups.

Each electrode group is to be tested by itself. It is not to be connected to any other earthing system
such as the neutral, cable sheath or the other local electrode group for the purposes of the test.

For combined earthing installations an additional three terminal test is to be undertaken where both
electrode groups are connected together. The combined electrode group is not to be connected to
any other earthing system such as the neutral or cable sheath for the purposes of the test.

E8.3 Test equipment

The following test equipment is required:

 A three or four terminal tester may be used. Refer to Clause E8.7 for further information about
the selection of a suitable tester.

 Minimum of two electrodes. More electrodes may be required to form a system of

interconnected electrodes in high resistivity locations.

 Minimum of two lengths of covered conductor. Insulated to the rating of the test instrument and
a minimum length to undertake the test. Suggested lengths to cover the majority of sites are
100m and 62m leads. Colour coded leads can reduce onsite testing mistakes.

 Assorted short leads and plugs/clips used to make the connections between the electrodes and
the meter.

 Hammers for driving electrodes.

 Water to improve the contact resistance of the test electrodes in dry, high resistivity locations.
E8.4 Test Execution

Configuration of the three-terminal resistance test is shown in Figure E9. Lead length requirements
to obtain an accurate measurement of electrode resistance are determined by the electrode group
under test, the soil resistivity and surrounding infrastructure. The following procedure includes a
method for determining if sufficient distance from the electrode group under test has been
achieved. A test sheet template can be found in Annexure F.

Survey the site for surrounding metallic infrastructure – Dial Before You Dig can help.

 Select a direction from the electrode group under test with minimal interaction with other buried
conductive equipment.

 Connect the current lead to the test unit and run it out 20m from the electrode group under test
(‘total distance’ in Figure E9) and install the current electrode as deep as practical while
considering subsequent electrode removal and impacting other possible buried assets.

 Connect the potential lead to the test unit and run it out 60% of the total distance, 12m in this
case, and install the potential electrode.

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 Connect the other current terminal of the test unit to the electrode group under test. If it is a
four terminal instrument also connect the potential terminal to the electrode group. Keep these
two leads less than 5m.

 Activate the test unit and note the resistance measurement.

 Move the potential probe so that it is now 50% of the total distance, 10m in this case and
activate the test instrument. If the two measurements are within 20% of each other the test is
complete.

 If the measurements do not agree within 20%, double the distances for the probe placements.
The current electrode would now be at 40m and the potential electrode is 60% (24m). Take a
measurement and then move the potential probe to 50% (20m) and take the measurement
again.

 If the measurements agree within 20% the test is complete, otherwise increase the distances
again.

 If the current electrode has been moved to 100m and the measurements with the potential
electrode is at 60m and 50m don’t agree within 20% and the testing issues, Clause E8.5, has
been consulted then advice should be sought from Ausgrid/Earthing & Insulation Coordination
Section.

C2
Test
P2
instrument P1
C1
Connect if
available
Keep lead Distance 2
Distance 1
length
under 5m

Total distance

Electrode group
under test

Figure E9. Three terminal resistance test

E8.5 Testing issues

Generally any difficulty that may be experienced while undertaking a three terminal test can be
simplified to three primary causes.

 High electrode impedance compared to instrument voltage/current capability and instrument

detection sensitivity.

 Interference from nearby infrastructure.

 Test configuration problems.

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E8.6 Problems and their solutions

While most test instruments offer a range of diagnostic output which should be checked during
each measurement, the test instrument cannot detect every condition that may cause an error.
Table E7 lists a number of possible issues which should be kept in mind when a test is undertaken.

Consult the test instrument instructions for the interpretation and resolution of instrument diagnostic
output.

Table E7: Test Trouble-shooting Guide

Problem Category of problem Solutions

Test instrument displays High probe impedance Install probes further into soil
high impedance electrode Wet soil about probes
or current too low.
Install additional probes in parallel.

Measurement is unstable High probe impedance, Try solutions above.

or fluctuates Interference Try relocating test.
Investigate sources of electrical noise

E8.7 Test instrument assessment

A three terminal tester suitable for testing distribution equipment earthing assets will have the
following minimum characteristics:

 Resistance range: 0.3 Ohms to 1000 Ohms

 50Hz Noise rejection

 20% accuracy

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Annexure F – Test Sheets

This section contains test sheets for the various testing methods described in this Network
Standard. These are:

 Wenner Resistivity Traverse Measurements Sheet

 Earthing Interconnectivity Measurements Sheet

 Loop Impedance Measurements Sheet

 Three Point/Fall of Potential Measurements Sheet

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Earthing Interconnectivity Measurements Sheet

Project: _______________________________________ Date: _________________

Job Site/Location: ______________________________ Time: _________________

Tested By: ____________________________________________________________

4 Terminal Test Unit Type: ______________ Serial Number: ________________ Last Calibrated: __________
Hi-Pot Test Unit Type: __________________ Serial Number: ________________ Last Calibrated: __________

4 Terminal Hi-Pot Unit

Item 1 Item 2 Unit Reading Reading Comments
(ohms) (ohms)

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Loop Impedance Measurements Sheet

Project: ______________________________________ Date: __________________

Job Site/Location:______________________________ Time: _________________

Tested By: _____________________________________________________________

Test Unit Type: ______________________ Serial Number _________________ Last Calibrated: __________

Does Asset Have a Are LV Neutrals / HV

Resistance
Test Point Description Combined Earthing Cable Screens
Reading (ohms)
System? Connected?

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Three Point / Fall of Potential Measurements Sheet

Project: ______________________________________ Date: __________________

Job Site/Location:______________________________ Time: _________________

Tested By: _____________________________________________________________

Test Unit Type: ________________________ Serial Number ___________________ Last Calibrated: _____________

Difference
Current Distance of Resistance at 60% of Distance of Resistance at 50% Between Readings
Electrode Potential Potential
Distance (m)
D (ohms) of D (ohms) (%)
Electrode at Electrode at
[D] 60% of D (m) [A] 50% of D (m) [B] | A – B | x 100
A

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Annexure G – Earthing Signs

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Annexure H – Sample Compliance Checklist

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