News and Blog

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  How to prevent copper cable / copper tape theft?

  The theft of copper earth tape can be costly, disruptive and potentially life threatening. However, there are steps you can take to prevent it. Why is copper theft a problem? Despite efforts to make metal resale more difficult, there still remains a risk of theft. It’s also not just substations who are at risk, even heritage sites are being targeted. When vandalism or theft does occur it can cause a number of challenges, such as: Cost– The cost to replace copper tape plus the repair of damages ...

  2025-12-22

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  Are lightning rods effective for all types of buildings or structures?

  Introduction to Lightning Rods Lightning rods are devices designed to protect structures from lightning strikes by providing a safe pathway for the electrical discharge to travel to the ground. These rods are typically made of conductive materials, such as copper or aluminum, and are installed at the highest points of a building or structure. The purpose of a lightning rod is to redirect the electric charge from a lightning strike, preventing damage to the structure and reducing the risk of fire...

  2025-12-18

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  How should you choose the appropriate grounding rods?

  Understanding the Purpose of Grounding Rods Grounding rods serve as fundamental components in electrical safety systems, helping redirect electrical faults, lightning surges, or abnormal current into the earth. Their primary purpose is to stabilize voltage levels and protect equipment, buildings, and personnel by ensuring that unexpected electrical energy flows away from sensitive structures. Choosing the appropriate grounding rod requires understanding how grounding functions within different e...

  2025-12-11

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  Exothermic Welding for Earthing: Principles, Advantages and Supply Options

  Exothermic welding, sometimes referred to as thermite welding or exothermic bonding, is a proven method for permanently joining conductors for earthing (grounding). This process is particularly effective for connecting dissimilar metals. It works without an external heat source, using a chemical reaction from a thermite-based weld powder to generate intense heat. This heat melts the conductors, creating a robust, low-resistance bond as the materials cool and solidify. Exothermic welds offer a su...

  2025-12-10

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  Copper Earth Tapes: Functions, Installation Uses and Protective Measures

  Copper is used for most earthing installations due to its high conductivity, anti-corrosive properties and its flexibility for use in-air, in-earth and in-concrete –  bare copper tape is available in a range of conductor sizes to meet differing current ratings. Thorne & Derrick stock and distribute the most extensive range of Copper Earth Tapes – this includes bare copper and covered tapes in a selection of coloured oversheathing used to provide earthing protection and connect metalwork, swi...

  2025-12-08

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  Do the grounding inspection pits have a waterproof and leak-proof design?

  Structural Design of Grounding Inspection Pits Grounding inspection pits are engineered to provide safe access to grounding systems for maintenance and inspection purposes. Their structural design focuses on ensuring stability, durability, and resistance to environmental factors. The construction typically involves reinforced concrete or durable polymer materials that offer resistance against pressure from surrounding soil and potential impact loads. Waterproofing layers or coatings are often ap...

  2025-12-04

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  How do earthing conductors relate to other electrical systems?

  Introduction to Earthing Conductors Earthing conductors, also known as grounding conductors, play a crucial role in electrical systems. They are designed to ensure the safety and proper operation of electrical installations by providing a safe path for the dissipation of electrical energy, particularly during fault conditions. Grounding systems are essential for minimizing the risk of electrical shock, preventing fires, and protecting sensitive equipment from electrical surges. Definition and Pu...

  2025-11-19

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  How often should the grounding resistance be tested after the grounding rods are installed?

  Importance of Periodic Testing After Grounding Rod Installation Grounding systems play an essential role in electrical safety by directing fault currents safely into the earth, reducing risks associated with equipment damage, fire hazards, or electrical shock. After grounding rods are installed, the grounding resistance will vary over time due to soil conditions, moisture levels, corrosion, and structural changes around the installation site. The frequency of testing must therefore account for t...

  2025-11-12

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  How can we ensure that the grounding resistance of grounding rods is low in order to improve the grounding effect?

  How Can We Ensure That the Grounding Resistance of Grounding Rods Is Low in Order to Improve the Grounding Effect? Grounding is a critical component of electrical systems, ensuring the safety and stability of electrical installations. It provides a direct path for the flow of fault current to the earth, minimizing the risks of electric shock and preventing equipment damage. A key factor in effective grounding is maintaining a low grounding resistance, which facilitates the dissipation of electri...

  2025-11-05