CHAPTER

INTERNAL GROUNDING

7
7

...................................

This chapter provides requirements for grounding communications site equipment. The requirements in this chapter are the minimum required to help ensure personnel safety and equipment reliability, and are derived from a compilation of industry-wide specifications, standards and applicable codes. Additional steps may be taken as required, based on system requirements and the sites geographical area. Abnormal and unusual conditions can sometimes require special effort to achieve an effectively bonded and grounded site. Consultation with the Motorola committee responsible for this manual is suggested in these instances. The committee chairman may be contacted via email at [email protected].

NOTE: For cellular applications, see Appendix C for more information.

All site development and equipment installation work shall comply with all applicable codes in use by the authority having jurisdiction. Government and local codes shall take precedence over the requirements of this document. In areas where the governing authority has no permit and inspection process in place and no codes specific to this type of installation have been adopted, the requirements of this document shall then apply. This chapter describes the following topics: Ground Bus Bars on page 7-5 Conductors on page 7-30 Connection Methods on page 7-46 Conductor Routing Methods on page 7-50 Control Centers, Dispatch Equipment and Dispatch Furniture on page 7-53 Grounding Electrode System Within Large Structures on page 7-55

NOTE: All references to NFPA 70 are to the 1999 edition.

....
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CHAPTER 7: INTERNAL GROUNDING

7.1 INTRODUCTION ...................................

Proper bonding and grounding of equipment is essential for personnel safety and system reliability. Because of the increase in circuit density and the advent of lowervoltage integrated circuit devices, communications systems equipment is now more vulnerable than ever to damage resulting from lightning activity and power line anomalies. Inadequate or improper equipment bonding and grounding can permit a difference of potential to exist between system components, which may result in injury to personnel, system failure, and equipment damage. The objective of grounding and bonding all system components to a single point is to minimize any difference of potential that may develop between components within the system and within the equipment site or area. To reach this objective, a single point ground system is required for all communications equipment, support equipment, power systems, and other items and materials within the building, shelter, room or area of the same building. Separate adjacent buildings containing system equipment shall be considered an independent building or shelter and shall have its own ground system which may or may not be bonded to the adjacent building.

NOTE: Large buildings or campuses with multiple power feeds require

special design considerations that are beyond the scope of this document. Consult with Motorolas R56 committee in these instances. Effective low impedance bonding is achieved through the use of the components listed below, all of which must be effectively bonded together so that there is no difference in potential among them. A typical diagram showing the major components of an effective internal grounding system is shown in Figure 7-1. Single point ground system: Master Ground Bus Bar (MGB) Sub System Ground Bus Bar (SSGB) Rack Ground Bus Bar (RGB) Ground bus conductors Equipment grounding conductors Internal perimeter ground bus conductors Support system and subsystems Metallic structural items and materials

..

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INTRODUCTION

INTERIOR OF EQUIPMENT BUILDING/SHELTER

INTERNAL PERIMETER GROUNDING CONDUCTORS (WALL-MOUNTED)

AREA 1

MGB

ELECTRICAL PANEL GROUND BUS CONDUCTORS ANCILLARY SUPPORT EQUIPMENT NEUTRAL GROUND BOND TO EXTERNAL GROUNDING ELECTRODE SYSTEM

RGB

BATTERY RACK

COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM EQUIPMENT

SSGB AREA 2

RGB EQUIPMENT GROUNDING CONDUCTOR

COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM EQUIPMENT

FIGURE 7-1 TYPICAL SINGLE-POINT INTERNAL GROUNDING SYSTEM

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CHAPTER 7: INTERNAL GROUNDING

A single point ground system is defined as a single point, typically a MGB, within a shelter, equipment building or room, where all communications equipment, ancillary support equipment, antenna transmission lines, transient voltage surge suppression (TVSS) devices, and utility grounds are bonded. The single point ground system must be effectively connected to a grounding electrode system as detailed in this chapter and Chapter 6, External Grounding. In this chapter, the system is defined as all equipment required for proper communications system functionality at the site, and includes but is not limited to: Communications and support equipment Power systems Power distribution systems Voice, data and video circuits Antenna systems Global Positioning System (GPS) Surge suppressors Support components and material.

The equipment site or area is defined as the equipment building, shelter, room or area within another room where communications equipment or systems may be located and includes but is not limited to: Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems Fire suppression systems Power distribution systems The building structure

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7.2 GROUND BUS BARS ...................................

This paragraph describes the three types of bus bars that may be used in a communications site building: Master ground bus bars (MGB) Subsystem ground bus bars (SSGB) Rack ground bus bars (RGB)

..

7.2.1

MASTER GROUND BUS BAR

The MGB is the single termination point for all internal ground bus conductors, internal perimeter ground bus conductors, or equipment grounding conductors as described herein. All equipment and ancillary support apparatus within the communications system equipment area shall be bonded to the MGB. This MGB typically serves as the single point ground termination. A typical MGB with mounting brackets is shown in Figure 7-2. A single MGB (Figure 7-2) shall be installed at all communications system equipment locations in a shelter, building, room or area. An MGB may also be installed in an assembly of communications equipment cabinets as may be deemed necessary to ensure an effective bonding point for all equipment grounding conductors.1

FIGURE 7-2 TYPICAL MASTER GROUND BUS BAR

A single rack, cabinet or chassis that is not part of an onsite communications system and does not constitute a communications system within itself does not require the installation of a MGB as defined in this chapter, though one may be installed if desired.

1. See NFPA 70, Article 100 Grounding Conductor, Equipment for the definition of an equipment grounding conductor.

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CHAPTER 7: INTERNAL GROUNDING

In this application the single point where all equipment ground connectors terminate may be a point within the single cabinet or a point on the grounding electrode conductor immediately adjacent to the equipment rack, cabinet, or chassis. See Figure 7-3 below.

RF Transmission Line AC Power TVSS TVSS

EQUIPMENT TVSS Connection to Chassis, Rack, or Cabinet Mounting Rail

Telephone Circuit Protector

Grounding Conductor to Grounding Electrode System

FIGURE 7-3 SINGLE EQUIPMENT GROUNDING CONNECTION

Typical ground bus or equipment grounding conductor

Typical two-hole lugs bolted to MGB

Internal Perimeter ground bus conductor. Routing to MGB is site specific, depending on space availability. The method shown here or at far right is acceptable. Master Ground bus bar. Total number of attachment holes and mounting method not shown. To external grounding electrode system

Internal Perimeter ground bus conductor

Exothermic or irreversible crimp connection

FIGURE 7-4 EXAMPLE OF MASTER GROUND BUS BAR CONNECTION C ONFIGURATION

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7.2.1.1

REQUIREMENTS
When equipment is in a stand-alone building or shelter, a grounding conductor1 shall extend from the MGB to the external ground electrode system. When the equipment area is within a larger structure or multi-story building, a grounding conductor shall extend to the building ground electrode system conductor. The ground bus conductors, equipment grounding conductors, and internal perimeter ground bus conductors are terminated to the MGB. A single properly installed integrated cable entry port bulkhead panel of solid copper construction, electrically continuous between the interior and exterior of the structure through which it is mounted and with adequate area for termination of the bus and equipment grounding conductors, may be used as the internal and external ground bus bar. Refer to Grounding Electrode System Component Requirements on page 6-5 for additional information on the external ground bus bar (EGB). See Figure 7-5 for an example of the integrated cable entry port bulkhead.

FIGURE 7-5 INTEGRATED C ABLE ENTRY PORT BULKHEAD

1. See NFPA 70, Article 100 Grounding Conductor, Equipment for the definition of a grounding conductor.

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7.2.1.2

LOCATION
The MGB shall be located within the shelter, equipment room or equipment area within 60 cm (24 in.) of the point where the transmission lines enter, preferably near the entry points of the power and communications conductors. The MGB is typically mounted on insulated standoffs to the wall just below the point where the transmission lines enter. In facilities where the transmission lines enter the shelter, building or room through the wall at floor level or through conduits within the floor or ceiling, the MGB may be located on the wall, floor or ceiling immediately adjacent to the entry point of the transmission lines. Telephone cables and the main electrical service disconnect supplying power to the communications system must also be located within close proximity to the MGB. The most desirable location is along the same wall. This permits a single point bonding of the electrical service and telephone network interface grounding electrode conductors and the MGB grounding electrode conductor to the grounding electrode system. See Figures 7-6 and 7-7.

UPS UPS Panelboard

Equipment Grounding Conductor to bond Cable Runway to MGB.

Cable Runway Bonding Jumpers. Typical at each section connection point.

Equipment Grounding Conductor. Typical at each Cabinet, Rack and Equipment Chassis.

Internal Perimeter Ground Bus conductor

Air Intake louver Equipment Grounding Conductor. Typical at each Support Apparatus.

Utility Panelboard Generator Automatic Transfer Switch Telphone Service Separation for Internal Perimeter Ground Bus Transmission Line entry port To external ground system * Electrical Service ground * Electrical Service Main Disconnect Air Conditioner grill Air Conditioner grill

Equipment Grounding Conductor. Typical at each Support Apparatus. Equipment Grounding Conductor. Typical at each Support Apparatus. MGB Door Entry Exhaust Fan Green-jacketed Ground Bus conductor Cable Runway Green-jacketed Ground Bus Extension conductor Internal Perimeter Ground Bus conductor

* NOTE: No exterior ground system conductors shown. Electrical service grounding electrode conductor must be bonded to external site ground system.

FIGURE 7-6 PREFERRED MGB LOCATION

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Surge Suppressor (service side of transfer switch)

Surge Suppressor (load side of transfer switch)

Disconnect Switch

UPS Bypass Switch

UPS

Transfer Switch

Panel board

UPS Panel board

FIGURE 7-7 PREFERRED MGB LOCATION - EXAMPLE

7.2.1.3

MGB SPECIFICATIONS
See Table 7-1. The MGB shall carry the UL listing.

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TABLE 7-1

MGB SPECIFICATIONS
Item Specification Bare, solid Alloy 110 (99.9%) copper bus bar or plate of one piece construction May be electrotin-plated.

Material

Minimum Dimensions

Width: 5 cm (2 in.) Length: 30.5 cm (12 in.) Thickness: 0.635 cm (1/4 in.) Must be suitable for the application. polyester fiberglass 15 kV minimum dielectric strength flame resistant per UL 94 VO classification Dependent on number of conductors to be attached Holes to be 11 mm (7/16 in.) minimum on 19 mm (3/4 in.) centers to permit the convenient use of two-hole lugs

Mounting brackets Insulators

Conductor mounting holes Number Dimensions Method of attachment of grounding electrode conductor.

Exothermic welding Irreversible crimp connection Other suitable irreversible crimp connection process

7.2.1.4

BONDING: MGB-TO-GROUNDING ELECTRODE SYSTEM

The specifications and acceptable methods for bonding the MGB to the sites grounding electrode system are provided in Table 7-2. The requirements for each type of building or shelter are indicated by a check in the appropriate Type of Structure column. See Figure 7-7 for an illustration of typical MGB bonding and routing.

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TABLE 7-2 BONDING THE MGB TO THE GROUNDING ELECTRODE SYSTEM

Type of Structure
Multistory or hi-rise structures and roof mounted cabinets

Standalone shelter or eqpt bldg.

Eqpt. room or area within larger building.

Pad or Pole mounted cabinets

Requirement The MGB shall be bonded to the external grounding electrode system with a 35 mm2 csa (#2 AWG), or larger, stranded (preferred) or solid tinned copper grounding conductor. The MGB shall be bonded to the electrical service grounding electrode conductor with a 35 mm2 csa (#2 AWG), or larger, stranded, copper grounding conductor. This conductor may be solid and shall be tinned if any part of the conductor is below grade. The MGB shall be bonded to an indoor grounding electrode conductor, typically found in larger buildings, multistory or high rise structures. The indoor grounding electrode conductor may be one of the following listed in a descending order of effectiveness: The exposed steel structure of the building Effectively grounded metal water piping systems Exposed electrical grounding electrode conductor A dedicated grounding conductor

Note 1

Note 2

Note1

Exposed nonflexible metallic service raceways may be used when none of the above means are available. The grounding conductor shall be free of any splices. Should a splice in the grounding conductor become necessary the splice shall be made using irreversible compression type connectors that are listed for the purpose or with the exothermic process. No other type of splice is acceptable. The grounding conductor shall not contain any splices. Should a splice in the grounding conductor become necessary the splice shall be made using irreversible compression type connectors that are listed3 for the purpose or with the exothermic process. No other type of splice is acceptable.

Connections of the grounding conductor to the MGB shall be by the exothermic process or by the use of a listed3 irreversible pressure type crimp connection. Connections of the grounding conductor to an external grounding electrode system shall be by the exothermic process or by the use of a listed3 irreversible pressure type crimp connection. The grounding conductor shall be run in as straight a line as is possible and with a minimum number of bends. See Figure 7-8 and NFPA 70, Article 250(c) and for additional information.

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TABLE 7-2 BONDING THE MGB TO THE GROUNDING ELECTRODE SYSTEM (CONTINUED)
Type of Structure
Multistory or hi-rise structures and roof mounted cabinets

Standalone shelter or eqpt bldg.

Eqpt. room or area within larger building.

Pad or Pole mounted cabinets

Requirement The ground path integrity of the exposed structural steel or water piping system must be verified as being continuous. Effective bonding of joints and sections of exposed structural steel or water piping systems shall be provided as required to ensure the electrical integrity of this ground path. (NFPA-70; Article 250-68(b)) Connections to the exposed steel structure of the building or dedicated grounding electrode conductor shall be made with the exothermic process. When the exothermic process type connection is not suitable, this connection may be made by using listed3 irreversible pressure type crimp connectors, listed3 lugs or clamps or split bolt type compression connectors. Air handling ducts are not suitable for use as a grounding means. (NFPA-70; Article 820-40)

Connections depending on solder shall not be used (NFPA-70; Articles 250-8 and 250-70).

1. The MGB shall be bonded to the external grounding electrode system (stranded conductor preferred) if such a system is installed at the building and the equipment room or area is reasonably close to ground level. The MGB shall be bonded to the external tower grounding electrode system if a tower or stand alone antenna structure is present. 2. The MGB may be bonded to the external grounding electrode system if the system is installed on the structure. 3. Listed means that the item or device is listed by UL or an approved testing laboratory or complies with the definition as specified in NFPA 70, Article 100.

Radius 90 degrees minimum

The radius of any bend shall not be less than 20.3 cm (8 in.)

The angle of any bend shall not be less than 90 degrees.

NOTE: Applicable to grounding conductors of all sizes.

FIGURE 7-8 ACCEPTABLE GROUND C ONDUCTOR BENDING

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7.2.1.5

UNACCEPTABLE GROUNDING ELECTRODE SYSTEMS

The following are not acceptable for use as a grounding electrode system because these systems are generally not electrically continuous. (This shall not prohibit the bonding of these systems to the internal perimeter ground bus when they are located within the equipment shelter, room or area (per NFPA-70; Article 250-104)): Gas piping systems (per NFPA-70; Article 250-52(a)) Fire sprinkler piping systems shall not be used as a grounding electrode conductor unless the continuous electrical continuity can be established.

7.2.1.6

BONDING TO THE MGB

All equipment including but not limited to that listed below, shall be effectively bonded to the MGB using methods described herein. The means of this bonding are detailed in the paragraphs below. Connections depending on solder shall not be used (per NFPA 70, Articles 250-8 and 250(e)).

NOTE: Some customers may require that conductors be bonded to the

MGB in a specific sequence or order determined by the conductors origin or the type of equipment being bonded to the MGB. One of these methods, known as PANI, allocates specific areas of the MGB for bonding surge energy Producers, Absorbers, Non-isolated equipment, and Isolated equipment. This method is not required for compliance with this manual and is referenced as a point of information. See Appendix C and ANSI T1.313-1999 for more information on this method of bonding conductors. Ground Bus Conductors Equipment grounding conductors shall be bonded to ground bus conductors or directly to the MGB. Internal perimeter ground bus Equipment cabinets, racks and individual system component chassis. Ancillary support items. Metallic structural items and materials The grounded conductor of a separately derived AC electrical system shall be bonded to the MGB. (NFPA 70, Articles 100(a), 250-20(d) and 250-30.)

7.2.1.7

EQUIPMENT REQUIRED TO BE BONDED TO THE MGB

All equipment and ancillary support apparatus including but not limited to items listed in Table 7-3 shall be effectively bonded to the MGB, using the methods described in the table. This equipment shall be either bonded using a combination of a SSGB, RGB, equipment grounding conductor and a ground bus conductor, or individual equipment grounding conductors. See Figures 7-9, 7-10, and 7-11 for examples. Connections depending on solder shall not be used (per NFPA-70; Article 250(e)).

NOTE: A ground bus bar installed within a rack or cabinet shall be considered a RGB and shall be bonded to the MGB as described herein.
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To MGB Equipment grounding conductor Ground bus conductors

RGB RGB

Equipment grounding conductors

Equipment grounding conductors

Minimum bending radius must be maintained

Equipment Rack

Equipment Rack

NOTE: In installations where the ground bus is located below the rack or
cabinet, the RGB may be installed in the bottom of the rack or cabinet.

FIGURE 7-9 TYPICAL INSTALLATION OF RGB BONDED TO GROUND BUS CONDUCTOR

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To MGB

Independent ground bus conductors

Equipment grounding conductor

RGB RGB

Equipment grounding conductors

Equipment grounding conductors

Minimum bending radius must be maintained

Equipment Rack

Equipment Rack

NOTE: In installations where the ground bus is located below the rack or cabinet, the RGB may be installed in the bottom of the rack or cabinet.
FIGURE 7-10 TYPICAL INSTALLATION OF RGB BONDED TO THE MGB W ITH INDIVIDUAL GROUND BUS CONDUCTORS

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7-16
All conductors to MGB

GROUND BUS B ARS

Top-mounted RGB

Individual equipment grounding conductors from each piece of equipment and rack to MGB

FIGURE 7-11 ACCEPTABLE METHODS FOR BONDING FROM THE EQUIPMENT TO THE MGB

Ground bus conductor

Equipment grounding conductors

Individual equipment grounding conductors from each piece of equipment and rack to the ground bus conductor.

Equipment grounding terminal (typical each piece of equipment)

Vertically mounted ground conductor bus bar

Ground Bus Conductor extended to bottom of rack to accommodate future growth.

Equipment bonded using equipment grounding conductors to a ground bus conductor.

Equipment bonded using equipment grounding conductors.

Equipment bonded using topmounted RGB.

Equipment bonded using verticallymounted RGB.

Minimum bending radius must be maintained on all conductors

CHAPTER 7: INTERNAL GROUNDING

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Equipment Rack

Equipment Rack

Equipment Rack

Note: Blank filler panels do not require bonding.

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TABLE 7-3 BONDING TO THE MGB

From To Internal Perimeter Ground Bus Conductor

Item SSGB

MGB

SSGB

RGB

Ground Bus Conductor

Method Bond with 35 mm 2 csa (#2 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor using methods described herein.

Rack ground bus bar (RGB)

The RGB shall be bonded to the MGB, SSGB, or ground bus conductor with 35 mm2 csa (#2 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor. Ground bus conductors shall be effectively bonded to the MGB, SSGB, or other ground bus conductor using methods described herein. internal perimeter ground bus conductors shall be effectively bonded to the MGB or SSGB using methods described herein.

Ground bus conductor

internal perimeter ground bus Equipment grounding conductor Cabinets

Equipment grounding conductors shall be bonded to the MGB, SSGB, RGB or ground bus conductor using methods described herein. Bond with 16 mm 2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor, which shall be attached from the cabinet equipment mounting rail, or terminal to the, MGB, SSGB, RGB or ground bus using methods described in this chapter. Bond with 16 mm 2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor, which shall be attached from the rack grounding pad or terminal to the, MGB, SSGB, RGB or ground bus using methods described in this chapter.

Racks

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CHAPTER 7: INTERNAL GROUNDING

TABLE 7-3 BONDING TO THE MGB (CONTINUED)

From To Internal Perimeter Ground Bus Conductor

Item Individual system component chassis

MGB

SSGB

RGB

Ground Bus Conductor

Method All system component chassis, support chassis, panels, card cages, cross connect panels, test jack field panels and other equipment that has a ground connection point shall be bonded with 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor, which shall be attached from the equipment grounding terminal, chassis or frame to the MGB, SSGB, RGB or ground bus using methods described herein. On equipment where a ground stud or connection point provided by the manufacturer is sized and/or located such that a 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG) conductor cannot be reasonably attached, the 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG) equipment grounding conductor shall be attached to a suitable attachment point or to the equipment mounting screw. Where a terminal strip or other connection point integral to the equipment must be connected to ground, a jumper sized per the manufacturers instructions shall be installed between this point and the equipment grounding conductor attachment point.

Transmission line & surge suppressors

Note
2

RF transmission line surge suppression devices shall be bonded to the MGB within 60 cm (24 in.) of entry into the equipment shelter, equipment room or equipment area. In instances where the RF transmission lines enter the building at a point other than where the equipment room or area is located there is no requirement for surge suppression devices at that location. The shield of the RF transmission line must be effectively bonded to the grounding electrode system at the point of entry into the building or as near as practicable thereto (NFPA70; Article 820-33).

Primary telephone circuit surge suppressors

Bond with a 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor using methods described herein. An 8 mm2 csa (#12 AWG) green jacketed1 solid or stranded copper conductor may be utilized for bonding a single circuit (2 pair) surge suppressor.

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TABLE 7-3 BONDING TO THE MGB (CONTINUED)

From To Internal Perimeter Ground Bus Conductor

Item Secondary telephone circuit surge suppressors

MGB

SSGB

RGB

Ground Bus Conductor

Method Bond with a 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor using methods described herein. An 8 mm2 csa (#12 AWG) green jacketed1 solid or stranded copper conductor may be utilized for bonding a single circuit (2 pair) surge suppressor. Bond with a 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger as may be required, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor using methods described herein. See NFPA 70, Table 250-66 for minimum conductor size. Bond with a 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor using methods described herein.

Separately derived AC electrical systems

Cable runway

Control centers, Dispatch equipment, and metallic parts of dispatch furniture Ancillary support items, metallic structural items and materials

Bond with a 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor using methods described herein.

Bond with a 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor using methods described herein.

1. Ground conductors may be green, green with a yellow stripe or black with green tape on a black conductor at points designated by NFPA 70, Article 250-119 or jurisdictional codes. 2. At locations where transmission lines enter an equipment area served by a SSGB the transmission lines shall enter the room or area within 60 cm (24 in.) of the SSGB and the transmission line surge suppressors shall be bonded to the SSGB with a 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG), or larger, green jacketed, solid or stranded copper conductor using methods described herein. Refer to Location on page 7-24.

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7.2.2

SUB SYSTEM GROUND BUS BAR

NOTE: Refer to Chapter 8, Power Sources, for electrical distribution
options as a separately derived system when a SSGB is used. A Sub System Ground Bus Bar (SSGB) as shown in Figure 7-12 may be installed within a generator or power distribution room, a communications subsystem equipment room or area separate from, but associated with, the main communications equipment room or area and located within the same building as the MGB. In some applications the SSGB may be referred to as an isolated zone ground bus bar (IZGB). The SSGB provides a single termination point for all internal ground bus conductors, internal perimeter ground bus conductors, or equipment grounding conductors within a communications subsystem equipment room or area as defined herein. By having all equipment and ancillary support apparatus within the communications system equipment area bonded to the SSGB, differences in potential between communications system components will be minimal and the probability of personal injury, system failure, or equipment damage greatly reduced.

Ground bus conductor to MGB. Routing to the MGB is site specific.

Typical ground bus or equipment grounding conductor

Typical two hole lugs bolted to MGB Internal Perimeter ground bus conductor

Internal Perimeter ground bus conductor. Routing to SSGB is site specific depending on space availability. The method shown here or at far right is acceptable.

Subsystem Ground bus bar. Total number of attachment holes and mounting method not shown.

FIGURE 7-12 SUB SYSTEM GROUND BAR

A SSGB shall not be used when the associated equipment is located in a separate shelter or building, even if the shelter or buildings are adjacent to one another. A shelter added as a permanent attachment to an original building or shelter, which receives AC power from the same electrical service as the original building or shelter, is not considered a separate shelter or building for the purpose of this paragraph. See Figure 7-13, Figure 7-14, and Figure 7-15 for examples.

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Ground Rods (16 mm (5/8 in) x 2.44 m (8 ft) minimum) Tower Ground Radial with ground rods at maximum of 4.9 m (16 ft) intervals. Typically 3 radials at different lengths. Tower Ground Ring with ground rods at maximum of 4.9 m (16ft) separation.

Notes: No antennas, transmission lines, data, control, or telephone cables are shown. No electrical distribution or TVSS devices are shown.

FIGURE 7-13 SITE GROUNDING SYSTEM, TOWER AND COMMUNICATIONS SITE AND DISPATCH CENTER C O-LOCATED

External Ground System

Ice Bridge / Cable Support Electrical Grounding Electrode
Tower

Tower Ground Bus Bar Exterior EGB

Cable Runway Equipment Grounding Conductor

Internal Perimeter Ground Bus Conductor Electrical Service Main Disconnect Ground Bus Extension Conductors

Internal Ground System

Interior MGB

Corridor

Ground Bus Conductors

Cable Runway Bonding Jumpers. Typical at each section connection point.

SSGB

Bond mounting rail for each piece of equipment to Ground Bus with an Equipment Grounding Conductor. (typical each position)

G ROUND B US BARS

Dispatch Center

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Equipment Room

7-22
Tower Ground Radial with ground rods at maximum of 4.9 m (16 ft) intervals. Typically 3 radials at different lengths. Ground Rod (16 mm (5/8 in) x 2.44 m (8 ft) minimum) Tower Ground Ring with ground rods at maximum of 4.9 m (16ft) separation. Notes: No antennas, transmission lines, data, control, or telephone cables are shown. No electrical distribution or TVSS devices are shown.

GROUND BUS B ARS

FIGURE 7-14 SITE GROUNDING SYSTEM, SEPARATE ADJACENT SHELTER OR BUILDING

External Ground System Ice Bridge / Cable Support Electrical Grounding Electrode Electrical Service Main Disconnect Interior MGB Ground Bus Conductors Corridor Bond mounting rail for each piece of equipment to Ground Bus with an Equipment Grounding Conductor. (typical each position)
Tower

Tower Ground Bus Bar Exterior EGB Cable Runway Equipment Grounding Conductor

Dispatch Center Internal Perimeter Ground Bus Conductor Ground Bus Extension Conductors
SSGB

Internal Ground System

Cable Runway Bonding Jumpers. Typical at each section connection point.

E-911 equipment and computer room SSGB Pre-fabricated shelter addition to existing building, both utilizing same electrical service.

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External Ground System

Tower

Notes: No antennas, transmission lines, data, control, or telephone cables are shown. No electrical distribution or TVSS devices are shown.

Equipment Room

Internal Perimeter Ground Bus Conductor

Internal Ground System

Ground Bus Extension Conductors

Ground Bus Conductor Corridor

Cable Runway Bonding Jumpers. (each section bonded)

Electrical Service Conduit

Conduit to Dispatch Center

System Grounding Electrode External Ground System Electrical Grounding Electrode Electrical Service Main Disconnect
CEB area

Interior MGB
Telephone Circuit Backboard

SSGB

Telephone Circuit Backboard Cable Runway Equipment Grounding Conductor Cable Runway Bonding Jumpers. (each section bonded) SSGB
E-911 equipment and computer area

Bond mounting rail for each piece of equipment to Ground Bus with an Equipment Grounding Conductor. (typical each position) Dispatch Center

Internal Ground System

Pre-fabricated shelter as a stand alone facility with separate electrical service.

NOTE: See Figure 7-14 for details of main

building and tower grounding. FIGURE 7-15 SITE GROUNDING SYSTEM, W ITH STAND-ALONE PRE-FABRICATED SHELTER WITH SEPARATE ELECTRICAL SERVICE

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A SSGB may also be installed in an assembly of communications equipment cabinets as deemed necessary to ensure an effective bonding point for all equipment grounding conductors. Installation of a single rack, cabinet or chassis within a room or area does not require the installation of a SSGB as defined in this section, though one may be installed if desired. A ground bus conductor shall extend from the SSGB, or RGB to the MGB. When a SSGB, or RGB is not used, a ground bus conductor shall be installed from the single rack, cabinet or chassis to the MGB.

7.2.2.1

LOCATION
The SSGB shall be located within the equipment room or equipment area at the point where it is most convenient to terminate all ground bus conductors. Although not recommended, and not a good design practice, occasionally transmission lines must enter the subsystem area served with a SSGB. In these instances special design criteria must be considered to ensure that potential differences between the location of the SSGB and the MGB are minimized. For these applications, additional surge suppression devices may be required on any interconnecting power, data, audio, telephone or telephone type circuits, though they are routed within the same building. Consultation with Motorolas R56 committee is suggested in these instances.

7.2.2.2

SSGB SPECIFICATIONS
See Table 7-4. The SSGB shall carry the UL listing. TABLE 7-4 SSGB SPECIFICATIONS
Item Material Specification Bare solid copper bus bar or plate of one piece construction. May be electrotin plated Width: 5 cm (2 in.) Length: 30.5 cm (12 in.) Thickness: 0.635 cm (1/4 in.) Must be suitable for the application polyester fiberglass 15 kV minimum dielectric strength flame resistant per UL 94 VO classification Dependent on number of conductors to be attached Holes to be 11 mm (7/16 in.) minimum on 19 mm (3/4 in.) centers to permit the convenient use of two-hole lugs Exothermic welding Irreversible crimp connection Other suitable irreversible crimp connection process

Minimum Dimensions

Mounting brackets Insulators

Conductor mounting holes Number Dimensions Allowable bonding methods

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7.2.2.3

BONDING TO THE SSGB

All subsystem equipment and ancillary support apparatus including but not limited to items listed in Table 7-5, within the room or subsystem area served by the SSGB shall be effectively bonded to the SSGB using methods described in this chapter. Connections depending on solder shall not be used (per NFPA 70, Articles 250-8 and 250(e)).

7.2.2.4

EQUIPMENT TO BE BONDED
All equipment and ancillary support apparatus including but not limited to items listed in Table 7-5 shall be effectively bonded to the SSGB, using the methods described in the table. This equipment shall be either bonded using a combination of a SSGB, RGB, equipment grounding conductor and a ground bus conductor, or individual equipment grounding conductors (per NFPA-70; Article 250(e)).

TABLE 7-5 BONDING TO THE SSGB

From To Internal Ground Bus Conductor

Item SSGB Rack ground bus bar (RGB) Ground bus conductor RGB

Ground Bus Conductor

Method The RGB shall be bonded to the SSGB, or ground bus conductor with 35 mm2 csa (#2 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor. Ground bus conductors shall be effectively bonded to the SSGB, or other ground bus conductor using methods described herein. Conductor shall be 35 mm2 csa (#2 AWG) green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor, or solid copper bus bar. Internal perimeter ground bus conductors shall be effectively bonded to the SSGB using methods described herein.

Internal perimeter ground bus Equipment grounding conductor Cabinets

Equipment grounding conductors shall be bonded to the SSGB, RGB or ground bus conductor using methods described herein. Bond with 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor, which shall be attached from the cabinet equipment mounting rail, or terminal to the SSGB, RGB or ground bus using methods described in this chapter. Bond with 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor, which shall be attached from the rack grounding pad or terminal to the SSGB, RGB or ground bus using methods described in this chapter.

Racks

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TABLE 7-5 BONDING TO THE SSGB (CONTINUED)

From To Internal Ground Bus Conductor

Item SSGB RGB

Ground Bus Conductor

Method All system component chassis, support chassis, panels, card cages, cross connect panels, test jack field panels and other equipment that has a ground connection point shall be bonded with 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor, which shall be attached from the equipment grounding terminal, chassis or frame to the SSGB, RGB or ground bus using methods described herein. On equipment where a ground stud or connection point provided by the manufacturer is sized and/or located such that a 16 mm 2 csa (#6 AWG) conductor cannot be reasonably attached, the 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG) equipment grounding conductor shall be attached to a suitable attachment point or to the equipment mounting screw. Where a terminal strip or other connection point integral to the equipment must be connected to ground, a jumper sized per the manufacturers instructions shall be installed between this point and the equipment grounding conductor attachment point.

Individual system component chassis

Transmission line and surge suppressors

Note
2

RF transmission line surge suppression devices shall be bonded to the SSGB within 60 cm (24 in.) of entry into the equipment area. In instances where the RF transmission lines enter the building at a point other than where the equipment room or area is located there is no requirement for surge suppression devices at that location. The shield of the RF transmission line must be effectively bonded to the grounding electrode system at the point of entry into the building or as near as practicable thereto (NFPA-70; Article 820-33).

Primary telephone circuit surge suppressors

Bond with a 16 mm 2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor using methods described herein. An 8 mm 2 csa (#12 AWG) green jacketed solid or stranded copper conductor may be utilized for bonding a single circuit (2 pair) surge suppressor.

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TABLE 7-5 BONDING TO THE SSGB (CONTINUED)

From To Internal Ground Bus Conductor

Item SSGB Secondary telephone circuit surge suppressors RGB

Ground Bus Conductor

Method Bond with a 16 mm 2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor using methods described herein. An 8 mm 2 csa (#12 AWG) green jacketed1 solid or stranded copper conductor may be utilized for bonding a single circuit (2 pair) surge suppressor. Bond with a 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger as may be required, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor using methods described herein. See NFPA70, Table 250-66 for minimum conductor size. Bond with a 16 mm 2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor using methods described herein.

Separately derived AC electrical systems Cable runway

Control centers, Dispatch equipment, and metallic parts of dispatch furniture Ancillary support items, metallic structural items and materials

Bond with a 16 mm 2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor using methods described herein.

Bond with a 16 mm 2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor using methods described herein.

1. Ground conductors may be green, green with a yellow stripe or black with green tape on a black conductor at points designated by NFPA 70, Article 250-119 or jurisdictional codes. 2 At locations where transmission lines enter an equipment area served by a SSGB the transmission lines shall enter the room or area within 60 cm (24 in.) of the SSGB and the transmission line surge suppressors shall be bonded to the SSGB with a #6 AWG, or larger, green jacketed, solid or stranded copper conductor using methods described herein. Refer to Location on page 7-24.

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7.2.3

RACK GROUND BUS BAR

A rack ground bus bar (RGB) may be installed within an equipment rack or cabinet to provide a termination point for individual equipment grounding conductors for equipment installed within that rack or cabinet. The rack or cabinet grounding conductor(s) may also terminate on the RGB. The RGB shall be bonded to the MGB or SSGB with a ground bus conductor. Installations of a cabinet or assembly of cabinets comprising one enclosure that contains a complete system may have a single RGB installed serving as the system ground bus. At stand alone cabinet or cabinet assembly installations where no MGB or SSGB is installed, the RGB shall be bonded to the electrical service grounding electrode system or conductor.

7.2.3.1

LOCATION
The RGB may be mounted at any convenient location within the rack or cabinet, typically near the top or bottom of the rack or cabinet, depending on the location of the ground bus conductor. See Figure 7-9 on page 7-14, Figure 7-10 on page 7-15, and Figure 7-16 for typical RGB installations.

7.2.3.2

SPECIFICATION
The rack ground bus bar shall be of solid copper material, a minimum of 6.35 mm D x 25.4 mm H x 48.3 cm W (1/4 in D x 1 in H x 19 in W). The bus bar shall have a suitable number of drilled 11 mm (7/16 in.) holes to accommodate the required number of connections. The bus bar shall be securely mounted on suitable standoff hardware to maintain a separation of dissimilar metals and to facilitate conductor attachment. The use of standoff insulators may be suitable for this purpose. (See Dissimilar Metals on page 6-58.)

7.2.3.3

EQUIPMENT TO BE BONDED
All equipment including but not limited to items listed in Table 7-6 that is installed within the rack, cabinet or cabinets shall be effectively bonded to the RGB using methods described in this chapter. Connections depending on solder shall not be used (per NFPA 70, Article 250-8). (See NFPA 70, Article 250(e) for additional information.)

Note: Partial installation of grounding conductors to RGB shown.

FIGURE 7-16 TYPICAL R ACK GROUND BUS BAR

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TABLE 7-6 BONDING TO THE RGB

From Item Equipment grounding conductor Cabinets To RGB Method Equipment grounding conductors shall be bonded to the RGB using methods described herein. Bond with 16 mm 2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor, which shall be attached from the cabinet equipment mounting rail, or terminal to the RGB using methods described in this chapter. Bond with 16 mm 2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor, which shall be attached from the rack grounding pad or terminal to the RGB using methods described in this chapter. All system component chassis, support chassis, panels, card cages, cross connect panels, test jack field panels and other equipment that has a ground connection point shall be bonded with 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor, which shall be attached from the equipment grounding terminal, chassis or frame to the RGB using methods described herein. On equipment where a ground stud or connection point provided by the manufacturer is sized and/or located such that a 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG) conductor cannot be reasonably attached, the 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG) equipment grounding conductor shall be attached to a suitable attachment point or to the equipment mounting screw. Where a terminal strip or other connection point integral to the equipment must be connected to ground, a jumper sized per the manufacturers instructions shall be installed between this point and the equipment grounding conductor attachment point. Transmission line surge suppressors

Racks

Individual system component chassis

NOTE: Applicable to stand alone cabinet installations only.

RF transmission line surge suppression devices shall be bonded to the RGB within 60 cm (24 in.) of entry into the equipment rack or cabinet. In instances where the RF transmission lines may enter a building at a point other than where the equipment cabinet is located there is no requirement for surge suppression devices at that location. The shield of the RF transmission line must be effectively bonded to the grounding electrode system at the point of entry into the building or as near as practicable thereto (NFPA-70; Article 820-33).

Secondary telephone circuit surge suppressors

Bond to the RGB with a 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor using methods described herein. An 8 mm2 csa (#12 AWG) green jacketed1 solid or stranded copper conductor may be utilized for bonding a single circuit (2 pair) surge suppressor.

1. Ground conductors may be green, green with a yellow stripe or black with green tape on a black conductor at points designated by NFPA 70, Article 250-119 or jurisdictional codes.

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7.3 CONDUCTORS ...................................

..

7.3.1

GROUND BUS CONDUCTORS

Ground bus conductors interconnect the MGB, SSGB, RGB and the equipment grounding conductor with the cabinets, racks or individual system or subsystem components. The end of the conductor opposite the MGB or SSGB typically remains unterminated, although this end of the conductor may be terminated to a cabinet, rack, individual system component or RGB. Ground bus conductors typically originate at the MGB and radiate throughout the equipment area generally within the cable runway system. These conductors may extend into an adjoining subsystem equipment area and may serve as the grounding conductor for a SSGB, or RGB. Ground bus conductors may have ground bus extension conductors to provide a ground bus within cross section segments of a cable runway system. These ground bus extension conductors shall be of the same specification as the ground bus conductor and shall be routed with all connections to the ground bus conductor pointed in the direction of the MGB or SSGB. Equipment grounding conductors from each cabinet, rack or individual system component chassis shall be bonded to the ground bus conductors using methods described within this chapter. Ground bus conductors are not required to be installed at all locations, provided that equipment grounding conductors from each cabinet, rack and individual system component extend to the MGB or SSGB. See Figure 7-9 on page 7-14, Figure 7-10 on page 7-15, Figure 7-21 on page 7-39, and Figure 7-22 on page 7-40 for acceptable methods.

7.3.1.1

LOCATION
Ground bus conductors shall typically be installed within the cable runway system above or below the equipment rows. Depending on equipment layout and cable runway configuration, one or more ground bus conductors may be installed. Typically one ground bus conductor is installed in each cable runway running the length of the equipment area. Each equipment row shall have a ground bus conductor installed in each cable runway cross section. This conductor could be a ground bus extension conductor from the main ground bus conductor. The ground bus extension conductor shall be bonded to the ground bus conductor using suitable methods described within this chapter. See Figure 7-17 on page 7-31. Minimum bending radius and angle must be considered.

NOTE: Conductors installed within a plenum shall be compliant with

NFPA 70, Article 300-22. Ground conductors shall have an approved covering (insulation) or may be bare. When bare conductors are used they shall be solidly supported on suitable standoff insulators at intervals of no more than 61 cm (24 in.). These conductors shall not be in contact with metallic surfaces or other conductors unless intended to be bonded to these

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surfaces or conductors. Care shall be taken to ensure other conductive surfaces do not make contact with the ground conductor. These conductors shall be covered or jacketed upon exit from the plenum area and may be spliced at this point using an approved splicing method.

NOTE: All communications wires and cables installed within buildings,

including ground and grounding electrode conductors, shall be compliant with NFPA 70, Article 800 (e).

UPS UPS Panelboard

Equipment Grounding Conductor to bond Cable Runway to MGB.

Cable Runway Bonding Jumpers. Typical at each section connection point.

Equipment Grounding Conductor. Typical at each Cabinet, Rack and Equipment Chassis.

Internal Perimeter Ground Bus conductor

Air Intake louver Equipment Grounding Conductor. Typical at each Support Apparatus.

Utility Panelboard Generator Automatic Transfer Switch Telphone Service Separation for Internal Perimeter Ground Bus Transmission Line entry port To external ground system * Electrical Service ground * Electrical Service Main Disconnect Air Conditioner grill Air Conditioner grill

Equipment Grounding Conductor. Typical at each Support Apparatus. Equipment Grounding Conductor. Typical at each Support Apparatus. MGB Door Entry Exhaust Fan Green-jacketed Ground Bus conductor Cable Runway Green-jacketed Ground Bus Extension conductor Internal Perimeter Ground Bus conductor

* NOTE: No exterior ground system conductors shown. Electrical service grounding electrode conductor must be bonded to external site ground system.

FIGURE 7-17 TYPICAL INTERIOR SHELTER GROUND SYSTEM

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7.3.1.2

SPECIFICATIONS
Ground bus conductors, including ground bus extension conductors, shall be a 35 mm2 csa (#2 AWG) or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor. Stranded conductor may be more desirable due to the ease of installation and maintainability. For specific applications a copper bus bar of equal or larger size may be used. An example of such an application is this type of bar mounted from bottom to top of an equipment rack or cabinet, with individual equipment ground connections suitably attached to the bar. This method can be easier to implement than individual wire-type conductors for each equipment connection. See Figure 7-11 on page 7-16 (equipment rack on far right-hand side of figure) and Figure 7-18 for examples of using a copper bus bar as a ground bus conductor within a rack.

Conductor Bus Bar

Insulator

FIGURE 7-18 VERTICALLY MOUNTED CONDUCTOR BUS BAR

1. Ground conductors may be green, green with a yellow stripe or black with green tape on a black conductor at points designated by NFPA 70, Article 250-119 or jurisdictional codes.

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7.3.1.3

BONDING TO THE GROUND BUS CONDUCTOR

Equipment grounding conductors shall be bonded to the ground bus conductor or ground bus extension conductor using suitable methods described within this chapter. As appropriate, the end of the ground bus conductor opposite the MGB may be terminated or attached to a cabinet, rack, individual system component chassis or RGB. Ground bus extension conductors shall always be routed toward the MGB or SSGB at the point of connection to the ground bus conductor. These connection points shall be taped with a suitable green tape or otherwise protected from contact with the cable runway or other metallic surfaces. A separation of 5 cm (2 in.) shall be maintained between ground bus conductors and conductors of other cable groups.

7.3.2

INTERNAL PERIMETER GROUND BUS CONDUCTORS

The internal perimeter ground bus (IPGB) provides a suitable grounding conductor to the MGB for ancillary support apparatus, electrical conduits and other metallic items that may be located throughout the shelter, building or room. It is essential that all ancillary metallic items within the area be bonded to the single point ground established by the MGB or SSGB. An internal perimeter ground bus conductor shall be installed in all equipment shelters, buildings or rooms specifically designed or designated for communications equipment, or a generator or power distribution room. An internal perimeter ground bus conductor is not required in rooms or areas that are within a larger building where support apparatus is not present or where it is more practical to bond this support apparatus to the MGB or SSGB with a single equipment grounding conductor. An internal perimeter ground bus conductor may be installed in areas where there is a need to bond several items of support apparatus to the MGB or SSGB regardless to the specific usage of the area.

NOTE: The internal perimeter ground bus conductor shall not be used for
bonding communications equipment such as cabinets, racks, chassis or equipment grounding conductors to the MGB.

7.3.2.1

LOCATION
The internal perimeter ground bus shall be installed such that it encompasses the interior of the shelter, building, room or area with two independently separate ground bus conductors on opposite sides of the room. Each of these conductors shall be located horizontally along the wall, approximately 2.5 m (8 ft.) above the finished floor and terminated to the MGB or SSGB, as applicable, at one end only, using methods described within this chapter. See Figure 7-4 and Figure 7-17. At a point within the equipment area and approximately opposite the location of the MGB, the bus conductor shall be broken with the ends of the conductor being separated by approximately 10 cm (4 in.). The location of this break shall be positioned to afford a minimum of 10 cm (4 in.) separation between any items bonded to opposite bus conductors.

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The conductors shall be supported approximately 5 cm (2 in.) from the wall surface on insulated standoffs. Standoffs shall be installed at intervals as necessary to keep the conductor securely in place without noticeable sags and bends. Where transmission lines enter the equipment area at a lower point along the wall or through the floor or ceiling and the MGB is suitably located lower on the wall or on the floor or ceiling, the internal perimeter ground bus conductors shall be routed as stated above, with the following exception: at a point where these conductors can be readily connected to the MGB or SSGB, these conductors shall be routed across the ceiling or downward along the wall and connected to the MGB or SSGB. Minimum bending radius and angle shall be considered. Conductors routed down the wall must be sleeved to prevent damage. Sleeving in electrical nonmetallic conduit is recommended and should provide adequate protection. Metallic conduit or sleeving shall not be used for this purpose unless the conductor passing through the conduit or sleeving is suitably bonded to the metallic sleeve at each end with bushings or fittings listed and approved for the purpose. A cable runway of suitable design may be used for protection and support. Proper cable separation between ground conductors and other cable groups shall be maintained.

7.3.2.2

SPECIFICATIONS
The internal perimeter ground bus conductors shall be a 35 mm2 csa (#2 AWG), or larger, non-jacketed copper conductor, free of splices. If a splice is unavoidable, it shall be exothermically welded or be spliced using an IEEE 837-approved irreversible connection. It is desirable that this conductor be stranded for better flexibility and ease of installation and maintenance. However, this conductor may be a solid conductor (copper bus bar or copper strap) of equal or larger surface area.

7.3.2.3

BONDING TO THE INTERNAL PERIMETER GROUND BUS CONDUCTOR

Equipment grounding conductors from ancillary support apparatus shall be bonded to the internal ground bus conductor using suitable methods described within this chapter. Daisy chain1 connection arrangements shall not be used.

NOTE: The internal perimeter ground bus conductor shall not be used for bonding communications equipment such as cabinets, racks, chassis or equipment grounding conductors to the MGB. 7.3.2.4 EQUIPMENT TO BE BONDED
All ancillary support apparatus within an equipment shelter, a generator or power distribution room, a room or specific equipment area shall be bonded to the MGB or the internal perimeter ground bus conductor with an equipment grounding conductor. Daisy chain1 connection arrangements shall not be used. 1. The series or daisy chain method, which refers to any method of connection whereby the conductors are connected from one chassis, equipment frame or rack connection point to a second chassis, equipment frame or rack connection point and on to a third connection point, creating a series arrangement whereby the removal of the second connection point interrupts the ground path from the first chassis, equipment frame or rack, shall not be used.

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Manufacturers installation instructions shall be followed when bonding ancillary support apparatus to the site ground system. Connections shall be made to the terminal provided or some other suitable point on the apparatus. Ancillary support apparatus includes but is not limited to: Storage cabinets Battery racks Metallic window frames, doors and door frames Metallic ceiling grids Metallic raised flooring systems HVAC grills, ducts, units, motors, motor controllers, control panels, junction and terminal boxes Panelboards Switchboards Generator frames Automatic and manual transfer switches Transformers UPS units Metallic housing of AC power surge suppressor devices Primary telephone surge suppressor ground terminal(s).

The following shall also be bonded to the internal perimeter ground bus or MGB: All support apparatus within an equipment shelter, a generator or power distribution room, a room or specific equipment area and located within 2.44 m (8 ft.) vertically or 1.8 m (6 ft.) horizontally of ground or grounded metal objects (per NFPA 70, Article 250(f)). Metallic building structures and piping systems Steel roof trusses Exposed support beams and columns Ceiling grids Raised floor support structure Any exposed building support structure and building frame when located within 2.44 m (8 ft.) vertically or 1.8 m (6 ft.) horizontally of the communications equipment Electrical metallic conduits shall be bonded to the perimeter ground conductor at any point where they cross within 15 cm (6 in.) of the perimeter ground conductor.

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Metallic conduit run parallel to the perimeter ground bus shall be bonded at the points where it enters to within 15 cm (6 in.) of the perimeter ground bus conductor and at the point where it transitions away from the perimeter ground bus conductor. Each metallic conduit shall be connected to the perimeter ground bus conductor with a separate equipment grounding conductor using saddle clamps or other suitable pipe clamps. See Figure 7-23 on page 7-45.

7.3.3

EQUIPMENT GROUNDING CONDUCTORS

Equipment grounding conductors shall be used to bond communications equipment and ancillary support apparatus to the ground bus conductor, internal perimeter ground bus conductor, or to the MGB, SSGB, or RGB.

NOTE: Braided conductors shall not be used at any location. 7.3.3.1 LOCATION
The equipment grounding conductors shall be installed along the rack rail or other suitable support medium. One end of the conductor shall be bonded to the equipment or support apparatus using methods described within this chapter. The other end of the conductor shall be bonded to the ground bus or internal perimeter ground bus conductor. The equipment grounding conductors shall be bonded to the ground bus conductor using suitable methods described within this chapter. See Figure 7-9 on page 7-14 and Figure 7-10 on page 7-15.

7.3.3.2

SPECIFICATIONS
The equipment grounding conductor shall be a 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG), or larger, green jacketed1, solid or stranded copper conductor. Stranded conductor may be more desirable due to the ease of installation and maintainability.

7.3.3.3

ATTACHMENTS TO THE GROUND BUS CONDUCTOR

Equipment grounding conductors from each piece of equipment shall be bonded to the ground bus conductor or MGB using suitable methods described within this chapter. Equipment grounding conductors from each piece of ancillary support apparatus shall be bonded to the internal perimeter ground bus conductor or MGB using suitable methods described within this chapter. Each piece of equipment or ancillary support apparatus shall have a separate and independent equipment grounding conductor. Multiple connections may not be made to one attachment point on the ground bus conductor unless this connection is made using a split bolt listed for the size and number of conductors to be connected, an irreversible crimp, or exothermic welding. See Figure 7-19 on page 7-37.

1. Ground conductors may be green, green with a yellow stripe or black with green tape on a black conductor at points designated by NFPA 70, Article 250-119 or jurisdictional codes.

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Typical ground bus or equipment grounding conductors Typical two hole lugs bolted to MGB or SSGB

Internal Perimeter ground bus conductor.

MGB or SSGB. Total number of attachment holes and mounting method not shown.

To external grounding electrode system

Unacceptable attachment methods. The same bolt may not be used for two lugs.

FIGURE 7-19 METHOD FOR MAKING MULTIPLE CONNECTIONS TO THE MGB

Equipment grounding conductors shall be connected so that the removal of a connection will not break the ground path to any other piece of equipment or ancillary support device that may have electrical power applied. When a conductor is to be removed from a connection point where a split bolt is used as the attachment device, as shown in Figure 7-20 on page 7-38, the electrical power must be removed from all equipment or ancillary devices attached at this point.

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Unacceptable Method unless the Split Bolt is listed for the size and number of conductors to be connected.

Acceptable Methods

Irreversible Crimp Connection (must be listed for multiple connections)

To MGB

Split Bolt Equipment Grounding Conductors

Split Bolt Equipment Grounding Conductors

Ground Bus Conductor

NOTE: Route all conductors toward the

MGB. FIGURE 7-20 BONDING EQUIPMENT GROUNDING CONDUCTORS TO GROUND BUS CONDUCTOR

The series or daisy chain method, which refers to any method of connection whereby the conductors are connected from one chassis, equipment frame or rack connection point to a second chassis, equipment frame or rack connection point and on to a third connection point, creating a series arrangement whereby the removal of the second connection point interrupts the ground path from the first chassis, equipment frame or rack, shall not be used. See Figure 7-21 on page 7-39.

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Unacceptable Method
To MGB To MGB Ground bus conductors

Acceptable Method

Conductors always routed toward ground bus and MGB.

Lug suitable for connecting conductor to ground point.

Unacceptable series or "daisy chain" connection method. Equipment ground connection point.

Irreversible crimp connection or split bolt. Typical each connection point. Properly sized hardware shall be used.

Ground bus conductor or bar Equipment Grounding Conductors. Typical each chassis and rack

Equipment Rack Unacceptable series or "daisy chain" connected equipment grounding conductors.

Equipment Rack Individual equipment grounding conductor for each connection point to ground bus conductor.

FIGURE 7-21 CORRECT EQUIPMENT GROUNDING METHOD

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To MGB Ground Bus Conductor Grounding Conductor

Conductors always routed toward ground bus and MGB

Irreversible Crimp Connector

Ground Bus Conductors

Ground Bus extended into Cabinet

Irreversible Crimp Connector or split bolt

Equipment Rack

Equipment Rack

Cabinet

Cable runway section bonding jumpers. Typical each section connection point

To MGB

Cable runway grounding conductor

NOTES: 1. Route all conductors so that all bends and connections are in the direction of the MGB. 2. Equipment is installed in racks and cabinets as shown in Figure 7-11 and Figure 7-21.

FIGURE 7-22 GROUND BUS CONDUCTOR ROUTING

7.3.3.4

EQUIPMENT TO BE BONDED
All equipment and ancillary support apparatus including but not limited to that listed in Table 7-7 shall be bonded to the MGB, SSGB, RGB, ground bus conductor or internal perimeter ground bus (IPGB) conductor with an equipment grounding conductor.

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TABLE 7-7 EQUIPMENT TO BE BONDED

Bond To Ground Bus Conductor Equipment

MGB

SSGB

RGB

IPGB Equipment Racks and Cabinets

Individual equipment chassis

All system component chassis Support Chassis Panels

Card Cages
Cross connect panels Test jack field panels Primary surge suppressors Secondary surge suppressors Cable runway Storage cabinets Battery racks Metallic window frames, doors and door frames Metallic ceiling grids Metallic raised floor systems HVAC grills, ducts, units, motors, motor controllers, control panels Junction and terminal boxes Electrical conduits Panelboards Switchboards Automatic and manual transfer switches Transformers UPS units Other equipment and ancillary support apparatus including but not limited to that listed in Equipment to be Bonded on page 7-34. See Table 7-3 for additional information.

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7.3.4

BONDING JUMPERS
A bonding jumper shall be used to ensure an electrically conductive path between components to be bonded. Examples include sections of a cable runway which are required to be bonded together, or sections of structural steel, roof trusses, piping systems, conduits or other metallic surfaces that are required to be bonded together to maintain electrical conductivity. A bonding jumper shall not be used in lieu of an equipment grounding conductor.

7.3.4.1

LOCATION
Bonding jumpers shall be installed to bond components of the same or similar structure together. The location will be dependent on the specific application. Bonding jumpers shall be as short as possible, shall be routed in as straight a line as possible, and shall be as free from bends as is practicable. Care shall be taken to ensure that attachment points are clean and free of paint or corrosion. Suitable lugs shall be used to facilitate attachment to the components to be bonded.

7.3.4.2

SPECIFICATION
Bonding jumpers shall be #6 AWG or larger, green jacketed solid or stranded copper conductor. Stranded conductor may be more desirable due to the ease of installation and maintainability. Bonding jumpers may be green, green with a yellow stripe or black with green tape on a black conductor at points designated by NFPA 70, Article 250-119 or jurisdictional codes.

7.3.5
7.3.5.1

CONNECTION POINTS
EQUIPMENT
The equipment grounding conductor shall be attached to the equipment grounding terminal, chassis or frame utilizing methods described elsewhere in this chapter. On equipment where a ground stud or connection point is provided by the manufacturer and this ground stud or connection point is sized and/or located so that a 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG) conductor cannot be reasonably attached, the 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG) equipment grounding conductor shall be attached to the equipment mounting screw or other suitable attachment point. Where a terminal strip or other type connection point is an integral part of the equipment (PC board terminal, etc.) and this connection point must be connected to ground, a jumper sized per the manufacturers instructions shall be installed between this point and the equipment grounding conductor. Manufacturers installation instructions regarding grounding and bonding shall be followed in all instances unless the manufacturer specifies a grounding conductor smaller than 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG); in these cases a 16 mm2 csa (#6 AWG) equipment grounding conductor shall be used. If the manufacturer has not provided specific grounding and bonding instructions for their equipment, the instructions contained within this paragraph shall prevail.

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7.3.5.2

CABINETS AND RACKS

Connections to racks shall be made at the designated ground connection point or ground pad. Connection to racks without a designated connection point or ground pad shall be suitably made following the methods described within this chapter. Racks or cabinets equipped with a RGB shall have an independent bonding jumper installed between the rack or cabinet equipment mounting rail and the RGB. The RGB shall be bonded to the MGB, SSGB, or ground bus with a 35 mm2 csa (#2 AWG) or larger, solid or stranded, green jacketed1 copper conductor. Stranded conductor may be more desirable due to the ease of installation and maintainability. All equipment within the rack or cabinet shall be bonded to the RGB with an equipment grounding conductor.

7.3.5.3

ANCILLARY SUPPORT APPARATUS

Bonding jumpers shall be installed at all cable runway splices and connection points unless these bolted splices and connection points use splined shoulder bolts which bite into the side rail of the cable runway and ensure a positive bond between sections. All bolts must be properly installed at each splice in the cable runway system per the manufacturers instructions. Care must be taken to ensure a continuous electrical path. Bonding jumpers must be used where discontinuities such as expansion splice plates and hinged splice plates exist in the runway run. Manufacturers installation instructions shall be followed when bonding ancillary support apparatus to the ground system. Connections shall be made to the terminal provided or some other suitable point on the apparatus. All ancillary support apparatus within an equipment shelter, room or specific equipment area shall be bonded to the MGB or the internal perimeter ground bus conductor with an equipment grounding conductor. Manufacturers installation instructions shall be followed when bonding ancillary support apparatus to the site ground system. Connections shall be made to the terminal provided or some other suitable point on the apparatus. Ancillary support apparatus includes but is not limited to: Storage cabinets Battery racks Metallic window frames, doors and door frames Metallic ceiling grids Metallic raised flooring systems HVAC grills, ducts, units, motors, motor controllers, control panels, junction and terminal boxes Panelboards Switchboards Automatic and manual transfer switches Transformers

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UPS units Metallic housing of AC power surge suppressor devices

The following shall also be bonded to the internal perimeter ground bus or MGB: All support apparatus within an equipment shelter, room, a generator or power distribution room, or specific equipment area and located within 2.44 m (8 ft.) vertically or 1.8 m (6 ft.) horizontally of ground or grounded metal objects. Electrical metallic conduits shall be bonded to the perimeter ground conductor at any point where they cross within 15 cm (6 in.) of the perimeter ground conductor. Metallic conduit run parallel to the perimeter ground bus shall be bonded at the points where it enters to within 15 cm (6 in.) of the perimeter ground bus conductor and at the point where it transitions away from the perimeter ground bus conductor. Each metallic conduit shall be connected to the perimeter ground bus conductor with a continuous bare equipment grounding conductor using removable saddle clamps or other clamps that specifically permit the use of a single continuous conductor for grounding multiple runs of conduit. If multiple conduits are grounded using a single conductor, the conductor shall be clamped to each conduit run such that removal of one clamp does not interrupt the path to ground for the other conduit runs. See Figure 7-23 on page 7-45.

7.3.5.4

METALLIC BUILDING STRUCTURE AND PIPING SYSTEMS

Metallic building structures and piping systems, steel roof trusses, exposed support beams and columns, ceiling grids, raised floor support structure, any exposed building support structure and building frame when located within 2.44 m (8 ft.) vertically or 1.8 m (6 ft.) horizontally of the communications equipment, shall be bonded to the MGB, SSGB, or internal perimeter ground bus using one of the conductors and methods described within this chapter. No series or daisy chain1 connection arrangements shall be used. Each peripheral device shall be bonded to the MGB, SSGB, or perimeter ground bus using an individual equipment grounding conductor. See Figure 7-23 on page 7-45.

1. Daisy chain refers to any method of connection whereby the conductors are connected from one chassis, equipment frame or rack connection point to a second chassis, equipment frame or rack connection point and on to a third connection point, creating a series arrangement whereby the removal of the second connection point interrupts the ground path from the first chassis, equipment frame or rack.

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CONDUCTORS

Continuous Equipment Grounding Conductor Conduit or Pipe

Removable saddle-type ground clamp

To MGB

Irreversible copper crimp lug or split bolt connector

To MGB Metallic pipe or electrical conduit

Internal Perimeter ground conductor

Removable saddle-type ground clamp Continuous Equipment Grounding Conductor

NOTE: See Specifications on page 7-36 and 7.3.5.3 on page 7-43 for conductor
requirements. FIGURE 7-23 GROUNDING METHOD FOR METALLIC PIPE OR CONDUIT

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CHAPTER 7: INTERNAL GROUNDING

7.3.5.5

SURGE SUPPRESSORS
See Chapter 9, Transient Voltage Surge Suppression, for information on Transient Voltage Surge Suppression (TVSS) devices. RF transmission line surge suppression devices shall be bonded to the MGB within 60 cm (24 in.) of entry into the equipment shelter, equipment room or equipment area. An equipment grounding conductor shall be used to bond these devices to the MGB. If the RF transmission lines enter the building at a point other than where the equipment room or area is located, there is no requirement for surge suppression devices to be installed at that location. The shield of the RF transmission line must be effectively bonded to the grounding electrode system at the point of entry into the building or as near as practicable thereto (per NFPA-70; Article 820-33). Power surge suppression device metal housings shall be bonded to the MGB, SSGB, the ground bus conductor or internal perimeter ground bus conductor using an equipment grounding conductor.

7.3.5.6

COMMUNICATIONS/TELEPHONE CIRCUITS
Primary protection devices shall have the ground terminal bonded to the MGB or the internal perimeter ground bus conductor using an equipment grounding conductor. Secondary protection devices should be located near the equipment to be protected. An equipment grounding conductor shall be used to bond the ground terminal to the ground bus conductor that serves the associated equipment.

7.4 CONNECTION METHODS ...................................

The following requirements apply when attaching conductors to equipment and ancillary support apparatus, ground bus bars, and when attaching one conductor to another. In general, only connection devices that require the complete removal of the conductor jacket or insulation and result in a connection to the complete conductor surface area are suitable for use in ground systems. Conductors shall be connected to the MGB, SSGB, or RGB using suitable listed clamps, listed pressure connectors, listed compression terminals or listed lugs and hardware of the proper size for the application. Only connection devices that require the complete removal of the conductor jacket or insulation and result in a connection to the complete conductor surface area are suitable for use. Insulation piercing type connectors shall not be used. All clamp and compression connections for use on internal grounding applications shall be UL486A listed. Copper connectors shall maintain minimum 88% conductivity rating.

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CONNECTION METHODS

Compression systems shall include crimped die index and company logo for purposes of inspection. Aluminum shall not be used for connection purposes. Listed two hole long barrel compression terminals are preferred. No more than one clamp, fitting or lug may be attached by the same bolt or bolts. An exception to this is where a jumper from a terminal strip or other internal connection point of the same equipment must be bonded to the equipment grounding conductor. No more than one conductor shall be connected by a single clamp, fitting or lug unless the clamp, fitting, or lug is listed for multiple conductors. Where threaded or tapped holes are provided for attachment purposes, a star or split type lock washer shall be installed under the head of the screw or bolt and/ or between the nut and the ground bus bar. See Figure 7-24 for the correct location of the star or split washer in these instances.

NOTE: Do not install a washer of any kind between the ground lug and
the ground bus bar surface.

NUT BOLT GROUND LUG LOCKWASHER

GROUND BUS BAR OR EQUIPMENT SURFACE

FIGURE 7-24 PROPER LOCATION OF WASHER WHEN C ONNECTING GROUND LUG

Paint, enamel, lacquer and other electrically nonconductive coatings shall be removed from threads and surface areas where connections are made to ensure good electrical continuity (per NFPA 70, Article 250-12).

NOTE: Use of a star washer does not alleviate the requirement to remove
nonconductive coatings from attachment surfaces because the star washer does not provide enough contact surface area. Connections to pipes, conduit or other round members shall be made by using a listed bolted clamp of cast bronze or brass or other suitable listed means. Connections between dissimilar metal shall not be made unless the conductors are separated by a suitable material that is a part of the attachment device. Only attachment devices listed and approved for use with the specific dissimilar metals may be used for this purpose. (Refer to Dissimilar Metals on page 6-58.)

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CHAPTER 7: INTERNAL GROUNDING

Conductive antioxidant shall be applied on all connections of dissimilar metals in indoor or outdoor locations, on all outdoor connections and connections in damp locations, and is suggested for use on connections located within a controlled atmosphere. Minimum conductor bending radius and angle must be considered (per NFPA 780; Article 3-9.5). Conductors shall always be routed toward the MGB at all connecting points. Connection points shall be taped with a suitable green tape or otherwise protected from contact with the cable runway or other metallic surfaces. Proper cable separation between cable groups shall be maintained. When attaching two conductors together, connections shall not depend solely on solder (per NFPA 70, Articles 250-8 and 250-70) although properly crimped connections may be soldered. Crimp connections shall not be used on solid conductors unless they are listed and approved for the application.

The following methods of connection are unacceptable and shall not be used: Insulation piercing connectors shall not be used. Self tapping or sheet metal type screws shall not be used (per NFPA 70, Article 250-8). Tinnerman or similar type clips shall not be used. Connections shall not depend solely on solder (per NFPA 70, Articles 250-8 and 250-70). Star or split type washers shall not be installed between conductive surfaces. These washers may be used under the head and/or nut of the bolt as shown in Figure 7-24. Multiple connections shall not be made to one equipment or apparatus attachment point. See Figure 7-25. The series or daisy chain method of connecting a conductor from one piece of equipment to another and then to the ground bus conductor is not permitted. Conductors shall not extend through or beyond the clamp, fitting or lug unless the device is designed and listed to permit this conductor extension. Braided conductors shall not be used as a ground bus or equipment grounding conductor at any location.

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CONNECTION METHODS

Acceptable Method
To MGB Conductors always routed toward ground bus and MGB. Equipment Grounding Conductor Equipment Rack Equipment Rack Equipment Rack

Ground Bus Conductor

Irreversible Crimp Connector or split bolt

Unacceptable Method
Daisy chain method of connection

To MGB Ground Bus Conductor

Equipment Rack

Equipment Rack

Equipment Rack

FIGURE 7-25 ACCEPTABLE METHOD OF CONNECTING EQUIPMENT GROUNDING CONDUCTORS

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CHAPTER 7: INTERNAL GROUNDING

7.5 CONDUCTOR ROUTING METHODS ...................................

All conductors shall be installed and routed so that personal safety is not compromised and that all equipment is serviceable. The following requirements shall apply: Length: conductors shall be no longer than that required to achieve their purpose and shall be installed and routed in a professional and good workmanship manner. Support: conductors shall be secured or attached to surfaces as required to ensure they do not become damaged or disconnected. The method of securing shall be accomplished in a manner that permits associated equipment to be easily serviced. Protection: conductors installed in areas where they may be subjected to damage shall be sleeved in electrical nonmetallic tubing that is securely attached to the surface over which it is routed. In locations where metallic tubing or conduit is required for adequate protection, the conductor(s) routed through the metallic tubing or conduct must be effectively bonded to each end of the conduit using suitable listed means and devices (per NFPA 70, Articles 250-92 (a)(3) and 250-64(e)). Ground conductor tap joints shall be installed in order to prevent the conductor or the connection device from making contact with metallic surfaces. At points where conductors are routed through holes within metallic surfaces, the surfaces shall be suitably protected with grommets or a like material to minimize damage to the conductor or insulation. Routing: Conductors shall be routed toward the MGB, SSGB, or RGB. Connections to bus conductors shall always be made with the tap conductors being routed toward the MGB, SSGB, or RGB. See Figure 7-26 on page 7-52. At points where conductors must pass through a hole in a metallic surface and the hole is slightly larger than the conductor, the conductor shall be bonded to the metallic surface through which it passes. If the hole or opening is much larger than the conductor and is intended to accommodate several conductors, the conductor is not required to be bonded. See Figure 728 on page 7-53. Ground bus conductors may be routed within cable runways, on the outside of cable runways where suitable support is provided, or along equipment platforms. Equipment grounding conductors shall be installed along the rack rail or other suitable support medium leading to the cable runway system or ground bus conductor.

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CONDUCTOR ROUTING METHODS

Ground bus conductors shall be routed using the shortest possible routes between the equipment and the MGB or SSGB. They may extend into an adjoining subsystem equipment area and may serve as the grounding conductor for a SSGB, or RGB. These ground bus conductors may have ground bus extension conductors to provide a ground bus within cross section segments of a cable runway system. These ground bus extension conductors shall be of the same specification as the ground bus conductor and shall be routed with all connections to the ground bus conductor pointed in the direction of the MGB or SSGB. Bending radius: Ground bus conductors of all sizes shall maintain a minimum bending radius of 20 cm (8 in.). The angle of any bend shall not be less than 90 (per NFPA 780; Article 3-9.5. Separation: All ground conductors shall be separated a minimum of 5 cm (2 in.) from conductors of other groups as defined in Chapter 11, Equipment Installation. An exception may be when conductors are grouped together to enter or exit a cabinet or enclosure. Grouping only at this point is acceptable, provided the conductors are suitably separated on either side of the opening. To minimize potential inductive effects of nearby ferrous materials, the conductors shall be separated from ferrous materials by a distance of at least 5 cm (2 in.) where achievable.

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CHAPTER 7: INTERNAL GROUNDING

To MGB Irreversible Crimp Connector or split bolt Conductors always routed toward ground bus and MGB.

Ground Bus Conductor

Equipment Rack

Equipment Rack

Equipment Rack

NOTE: Route all conductors so that all bends and connections are toward the MGB.
FIGURE 7-26 GROUND BUS CONDUCTOR ROUTING

Ground Bus Conductor

Ground Bus Extension Conductors

Irreversible Crimp Connector or Split Bolt

Cable Runway Bonding Jumpers. Typical at each section connection point.

To MGB

Cable Runway Equipment Grounding Conductor.

FIGURE 7-27 GROUND BUS CONDUCTOR ROUTING - TOP VIEW OF CABLE RUNWAY

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C ONTROL CENTERS, D ISPATCH E QUIPMENT

AND

DISPATCH FURNITURE

From equipment or object to be grounded Bolt with nut and lock washer Split Bolt or irreversible crimp Lug

From equipment or object to be grounded Large hole or opening

Ferrous material Equipment grounding conductor or ground bus conductor Small hole

Inside of cabinet or structure

Equipment grounding conductor or ground bus conductor

Ferrous material Other Conductors

To MGB, SSGB or ground system

Conductors of different groups must be adequately separated on either side of the hole or opening.

FIGURE 7-28 ROUTING GROUND CONDUCTORS THROUGH HOLES OR OPENINGS

7.6 CONTROL CENTERS, DISPATCH EQUIPMENT AND DISPATCH FURNITURE ...................................

All control center and dispatch equipment listed below shall be suitably bonded to the MGB, SSGB, or ground bus conductor using methods described within this chapter. Equipment supplied with a ground connection point Mounting rails or support brackets intended for mounting equipment on or within the furniture Metallic parts of dispatch furniture Any metal handrails alongside ramps shall include grounding and bonding to the facility ground system (per NFPA 70, Article 250).

All control center and dispatch equipment supplied with a ground connection point, metallic equipment mounting rails or brackets and metallic parts of dispatch furniture shall be suitably bonded to the MGB, SSGB, or ground bus conductor using methods described within this chapter.

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CONTROL CENTERS, DISPATCH EQUIPMENT

AND

D ISPATCH FURNITURE

CHAPTER 7: INTERNAL GROUNDING

7.6.1

PURPOSE
Bonding of these components to the single point ground system is required to help ensure the utmost of personnel safety and equipment reliability.

7.6.2

METHOD
All equipment, metallic equipment mounting rails or support brackets and metallic parts of dispatch furniture shall be suitably bonded to the MGB, SSGB, or ground bus conductor using an equipment bonding grounding conductor. A separate conductor shall be installed for each item or component to be bonded to the MGB, SSGB, or ground bus conductor. To minimize the number of equipment grounding conductors from equipment and metallic components of the dispatch furniture, these conductors may be bonded to a ground bus conductor at each dispatch position. The ground bus conductor from each dispatch position shall be bonded to the MGB, SSGB, or another ground bus conductor. See Figure 7-29 for examples. The series or daisy chain1 method of connecting a conductor from one piece of equipment, etc., to another and then to the ground bus conductor is not permitted. Equipment mounting rails or support brackets intended for mounting equipment that is to be mounted between the rails or brackets or within the furniture shall be bonded to the ground system by attaching an equipment bonding grounding conductor to a single mounting rail or bracket used to support the equipment. In instances where an equipment chassis or housing is installed between mounting brackets or rails and the equipment chassis or housing has a designated ground connection point, the equipment bonding conductors shall be attached to the designated ground connection point in addition to the mounting brackets or rails.

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GUIDELINES FOR COMMUNICATION SITES

G ROUNDING ELECTRODE S YSTEM WITHIN LARGE S TRUCTURES

Dispatch equipment

Equipment ground location

Metallic mounting rail or support bracket. Typical each set of two.

Metallic furniture legs and supports

Ground bus conductor to MGB, SSGB or other ground bus conductor

Equipment grounding conductor

Typical grounding of non metallic dispatch position furniture

Metallic console furniture. Typical each position (Rear view) Equipment Equipment mounting rail

Equipment ground location

Metallic console furniture ground location. Typical each position Equipment grounding conductor. Typical each position

Ground bus conductor to MGB, SSGB or other ground bus conductor

NOTE: Conductors, connection methods and conductor routing methods shall comply with paragraphs 7.3, 7.4 and 7.5 of this manual.

FIGURE 7-29 GROUNDING METHODS FOR DISPATCH EQUIPMENT AND FURNITURE

7.7 GROUNDING ELECTRODE SYSTEM WITHIN LARGE STRUCTURES ...................................

Refer to paragraph 6.4.9, Integrated Communications Sites on page 6-43 for information on connecting the communications site ground to an existing building ground system.

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CHAPTER 7: INTERNAL GROUNDING

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