How does grounding protect equipment?

Grounding protects equipment primarily by dissipating excess voltage under fault conditions. When there is a fault in the electrical system, such as a short circuit or overload, grounding provides a low-resistance path for fault currents to flow safely to the earth. This dissipates potentially harmful voltages that could otherwise damage electrical equipment or pose a safety hazard to personnel.

Grounding mitigates the risks associated with power surges or accidental contact with live wires by ensuring that any excess electrical energy is redirected away from sensitive components and into the ground. This not only helps in protecting the equipment but also maintains safety standards within electrical systems, thereby preventing electrical shocks and equipment failures. The foundation of grounding systems is rooted in these protective functions, which are critical for the longevity and reliability of electrical installations.