Copper grounding conductors & reinforcing steel
Copper grounding conductors & reinforcing steel
(OP)
I have a project where it is proposed that copper grounding conductors will be compression crimped to a continuous loop of reinforcing steel in the building foundation. While the electrician seems very comfortable with the idea of the connection of the dissimilar metals, the communications engineering firm is not familiar with the system and has raised a red flag regarding possible corrosion of the reinforcing steel.
I am not familiar with the process either and would appreciate a little education on the matter or websites where I may conduct my own research or gather information on the compression clamps.
Thanks.
I am not familiar with the process either and would appreciate a little education on the matter or websites where I may conduct my own research or gather information on the compression clamps.
Thanks.





RE: Copper grounding conductors & reinforcing steel
RE: Copper grounding conductors & reinforcing steel
RE: Copper grounding conductors & reinforcing steel
RE: Copper grounding conductors & reinforcing steel
ht
RE: Copper grounding conductors & reinforcing steel
There are some corrosion issues, but in generally, copper in reinforced concrete is fairly benign and not terribly reactive with the rebar. Bigger concern may be blowing off a piece of foundation in the event of a direct lightning strike. But it is very, very common, makes a very good (low frequency) ground and is required by NEC for new construction.
RE: Copper grounding conductors & reinforcing steel
The active material is a mixture of powdered aluminum and powdered copper oxide. Some tin is added so that the finished product is a type of bronze.
Aluminum has such an afinity for oxegen that once the reaction is started, at about 900 deg., the aluminum will react with the oxegen in the copper oxide, yielding aluminum oxide and molten copper. The reaction is contained in a split graphite mold.
See
http://www.erico.com/products/Cadweld.asp
I know of one major utility who required cadwelds for substation grounding grids for decades. They now accept heavy copper compression connections. Another utility in the same area still requires thermite or Cadwelds for substation ground grids.
respectfully
RE: Copper grounding conductors & reinforcing steel
BUT, now this - http://ww
- shows up.
Steve Wagner
RE: Copper grounding conductors & reinforcing steel
We recently received info on the clamp to be used, Burndy Hyground. These clamps say they come precoated with Penetrox, an oxide-inhibiting compound with homogenously suspended metal particles.
It is my feeling then that the potential for corrosion is very limited since the dissimilar metals are not in contact with each other.
RE: Copper grounding conductors & reinforcing steel
In Canada a ufer ground consists of 6 meters (sized according to service size) buried either in the bottom 2' of a concrete foundation or buried in the soil below the concrete.
respectfully
RE: Copper grounding conductors & reinforcing steel
I think the grounding issues are being well handled, it was the issue of the connector that was of concern.
RE: Copper grounding conductors & reinforcing steel
Don't take my word for it though, it's been a while since I read that....