9-3 SANS10292 - dss-2

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DRAFT SOUTH AFRICAN STANDARD (DSS):

PUBLIC ENQUIRY STAGE
Document number SC67E/SANS10292/3
Reference SANS 10292/3
Date of circulation 7 May 2013
Closing date 8 July 2013
Number and title: SANS 10292, Earthing of low-voltage (LV) distribution systems
Remarks:
PLEASE NOTE:
The technical committee, SABS SC 67E responsible for the preparation of this standard
has reached consensus that the attached document should become a South African standard. It is
now made available by way of public enquiry to all interested and affected parties for public comment,
and to the technical committee members for record purposes. Any comments should be sent by the
indicated closing date, either by mail, or by fax, or by e-mail to
SABS Standards Division
Attention: Compliance and Development department
Private Bag X191
Pretoria
0001
Fax No.: (012) 344-1568 (for attention: dsscomments)
E-mail: dsscomments@sabs.co.za
Any comment on the draft must contain in its heading the number of the clause/subclause to which it
refers. A comment shall be well motivated and, where applicable, contain the proposed amended text.
The public enquiry stage will be repeated if the technical committee agrees to significant technical
changes to the document as a result of public comment. Less urgent technical comments will be
considered at the time of the next amendment.
THIS DOCUMENT IS A DRAFT CIRCULATED FOR PUBLIC COMMENT. IT MAY NOT BE REFERRED TO AS A
SOUTH AFRICAN STANDARD UNTIL PUBLISHED AS SUCH.
IN ADDITION TO THEIR EVALUATION AS BEING ACCEPTABLE FOR INDUSTRIAL, TECHNOLOGICAL,

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CONSIDERED IN THE LIGHT OF THEIR POTENTIAL TO BECOME STANDARDS TO WHICH REFERENCE MAY BE
MADE IN LAW.
AZ96.10 2013/03/14 sabs pta

ISBN 978-0-626-
SANS 10292:2013
Edition 2
SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL STANDARD
Earthing of low-voltage (LV) distribution

systems
Published by SABS Standards Division

1 Dr Lategan Road Groenkloof Private Bag X191 Pretoria 0001
Tel: +27 12 428 7911 Fax: +27 12 344 1568
www.sabs.co.za
SABS


SANS 10292:2013
Edition 2
Table of changes
Change No.
Date
Scope
Foreword
This South African standard was approved by National Committee SABS SC 67E, Electricity
distribution systems and components Electricity distribution, in accordance with procedures of the
SABS Standards Division, in compliance with annex 3 of the WTO/TBT agreement.
This document was published in xxxx 2013.
This document supersedes SANS 10292:2001 (edition 1.1).
Annex A is for information only.
Introduction
This document was prepared to ensure that appropriate earthing practices are used by all suppliers
of electricity, and to establish and promote uniform use and understanding of the earthing of
different types of low-voltage distribution systems and the descriptions, definitions and
abbreviations associated with those systems.
The five basic types of system earthing illustrated in IEC 60364-1, IEC 60364-5-51 and
IEC 60365-5-55, are described in this document, and reasons are given why only two of the five
types are prescribed.


SANS 10292:2013
Edition 2
Contents
Page
Foreword
Introduction
1 Scope
................................................................................................................................
2 Normative references ............................................................................................................
3 Definitions ..............................................................................................................................
4 LV earthing ............................................................................................................................
5 Types of system earthing ......................................................................................................

5.1 System earthing identification code ............................................................................
5.2 Overview of types of LV system earthing....................................................................
8
8
9
6 Characteristics of recommended systems ............................................................................

6.1 General........................................................................................................................
6.2 TN-C-S system earthing..............................................................................................
6.3 TN-S system earthing .................................................................................................
13
13
13
14
7 Earthing requirements for preferred LV distribution systems ................................................

7.1 Earthing requirements common to both T-N-C-S and TN-S systems ........................
7.2 Distributor earthing requirements specifically for TN-C-S system earthing ................
7.3 Distributor earthing requirements specifically for TN-S system earthing ....................
7.4 Service connection requirements ................................................................................
14
14
15
16
17
8 Earth connections ..................................................................................................................

8.1 Supply transformers and associated metalwork .........................................................
8.2 Low-voltage distribution system earthing ....................................................................
8.3 Earthing information ....................................................................................................
18
18
19
19
9 Interconnections and extensions ...........................................................................................

9.1 Interconnection of systems with different power sources ...........................................
9.2 Extension of one system by another of a different type ..............................................
20
20
20
10 Testing ................................................................................................................................
10.1 General........................................................................................................................
10.2 Source earth resistance test .......................................................................................
10.3 Voltage and polarity test..............................................................................................
10.4 Earthing loop impedance test .....................................................................................
22
22
22
22
23
Annex A (informative) Typical earthing arrangements ...........................................................
24
Bibliography..............................................................................................................................
28

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SANS 10292:2013
Edition 2
Earthing of low-voltage (LV) distribution systems
1 Scope
1.1 This standard gives requirements and recommendations for the provision of a safe electricity
supply to the consumer.
1.2 This standard establishes general principles for the earthing of low-voltage distribution systems
of which the supply starts at the point of generation or transformation, and ends at the supply earth
terminal of the consumer.
1.3 This standard applies to distributors that operate at a voltage (a.c. or d.c.) that does not
exceed 1 000 V.
NOTE 1 Earthing practices for the purposes of lightning protection and over-voltage protection are covered in
SANS 10313, SANS 10142-1 and SANS 10198-3.
NOTE 2 This standard is not intended to be applied to existing systems.
1.4 This standard does not cover special earthing requirements at customers' installations, for
example, where a radio frequency earthing is to be installed. For such installations, special
precautions might be needed.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For
dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the
referenced document (including any amendments) applies. Information on currently valid national
and international standards can be obtained from the SABS Standards Division.
IEC 60364-1, Low-voltage electrical installations Part 1: Fundamental principles, assessment of
general characteristics, definitions.
IEC 60364-5-51, Electrical installations of buildings Part 5-51: Selection and erection of electrical
equipment Common rules.
IEC 60364-5-55, Electrical installations of buildings Part 5-55: Selection and erection of electrical
equipment Other equipment.
SANS 1063, Earth rods, couplers and connections.
SANS 10142-1, The wiring of premises Part 1: Low-voltage installations.

SANS 10292:2013
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SANS 10199, The design and installation of earth electrodes.
3 Definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following definitions apply.
3.1
aerial bundled conductor
cable that is suspended above the ground and that consists of a group of insulated conductors laid
up together
NOTE The neutral conductor on a low-voltage system may be bare only in the case of a TN-C-S earthing
system.
3.2
live
alive
condition in which there is an electrical potential to earth
3.3
combined neutral and earth cable
CNE
service connection cable in which one conductor serves as both neutral and earth
3.4
concentric cable
cable that has a phase core surrounded by a PEN conductor (see 3.25) that forms a single
concentric layer around the core and that is covered by a sheath
3.5
consumer
person who is supplied (or who is to be supplied) with electricity by a supplier
3.6
consumer's earth terminal
terminal to which the exposed conductive parts of an electrical installation are connected for
connection to the supply earth terminal
3.7
consumer's electrical installation
electrical apparatus under the control of a consumer on the consumer's premises
3.8
distributor
supplier's distribution system to which service cables or service conductors are connected for the
purpose of supplying electricity to consumers
3.9
earth
conducting mass of the earth of which the electrical potential at any point is conventionally taken as
zero

SANS 10292:2013
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3.10
earthed
so connected to earth as to ensure, at all times, an immediate discharge of all electrical energy
without danger
3.11
earth electrode
one or more conductive parts that are embedded in the earth for the purpose of making effective
electrical contact with the earth
3.12
earth fault current
fault current that flows to earth, limited in magnitude only by the impedance of the conductive path
3.13
earthing
connection of all accessible conductive parts, including parts that do not form part of an electrical
circuit but that might accidentally become alive, to the source earth (see 3.33), in such a way that
they are earthed
3.14
earth leakage current
current that flows to earth in an electrically undamaged circuit
3.15
earth leakage device
device that is capable of detecting the flow of a specified or predetermined current from a circuit to
earth, and of disconnecting, automatically and reliably, the affected circuit within a specified time
when such current exceeds the specified or predetermined value
3.16
equivalent area
cross-sectional area of a conductive material (for example, aluminium), required to provide the
same conductive properties as the conductor used as a reference (i.e. copper)
NOTE The term "equivalent area" is used to accommodate the possible use of different materials in, for
example, phase and neutral conductors.
3.17
fault
circuit condition in which current flows through an abnormal or unintended conductive path
3.18
fault current
current that results from an insulation failure or from the bridging of insulation, limited in magnitude
only by the impedance of the conductive path
3.19
low voltage
LV
a.c. or d.c. voltage that does not exceed 1 000 V

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3.20
medium voltage
MV
voltage (a.c. r.m.s.) that exceeds 1 kV but does not exceed 33 kV
3.21
medium-voltage equipment system earthing
direct bonding of transformer metal tanks, switchgear, surge arresters and all metalwork supporting
or enclosing medium-voltage apparatus, including the sheaths and armouring of medium-voltage
cables and any continuous earth conductors associated with the medium-voltage system, to an
earth electrode
3.22
multiple-point earthing
multiple connection of earth electrodes to the protective conductor at points on the distributor in
addition to the source earthing of the medium-voltage/low-voltage transformer neutral
3.23
neutral conductor
conductor that is connected to the neutral point of a system and that contributes to the transmission
of electrical energy
3.24
PE conductor
protective earth conductor
conductor that is electrically separate from the neutral conductor
3.25
PEN conductor
conductor that functions as both a protective (earth) conductor and a neutral conductor
3.26
point of control
point at which a consumer can, on or in any premises, switch off the electrical installation from the
electricity supplied from the point of supply
NOTE The point of supply and the point of control may or may not be the same point.
3.27
point of supply
point at which electricity is supplied to any premises as determined by the supplier
3.28
prospective touch voltage
voltage between simultaneously accessible conductive parts when those conductive parts are not
being touched by a person or an animal
3.29
protective conductor
conductor that forms part of a low-voltage distributor and connects the source earth to the supply
earth terminal, and that is also connected to exposed conductive parts of a low-voltage distributor,
and can be connected to other earth electrodes

SANS 10292:2013
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3.30
self-monitoring
checking for a fault that does not cause the system protection nor the consumer's protection to
operate, and which produces abnormal system voltages and prospective touch voltages that can be
hazardous
3.31
separate neutral and earth cable
service connection cable in which the neutral and the earth conductors are electrically separate
from each other
3.32
service connection
conductors connected from the distributor to the point of supply for the creation of live and neutral
terminals; in the case of TN-C-S and TN-S systems (see clause 5), a supply earth terminal
3.33
source earthing
arrangement whereby the neutral of a supply transformer is earthed
3.34
split concentric cable
sheathed cable that has a phase core surrounded by two conductors (PE and N) that form a single
concentric layer around the phase core and are separated from each other by insulating material
3.35
supplier
person who supplies or contracts to supply, or agrees to supply, electricity to a consumer
3.36
supply earth terminal
clamp or terminal that is provided by the supplier at the point of supply and is connected to the
supplier's protective conductor
NOTE For existing consumer connections where no supply earth terminal exists, the supply earth terminal
can be created by making a connection direct to the PEN conductor at any point up to the supply side of the
point of control.
4 LV earthing
NOTE This standard contains many references to "touch voltage", and the fact that touch voltage can be
unsafe, but the subject has not been elaborated upon.
4.1 The earthing of the neutral of a low-voltage (LV) system should be as follows:
a) to provide a return conductive path for any earth fault current and earth leakage current;
b) to maintain the neutral of the LV system as close as possible to the earth potential;
c) to ensure that the medium-voltage (MV) protection operates in the event of a fault between the
medium-voltage and LV windings of a transformer; and
d) to reduce the prospective touch voltage as much as is reasonably practical.

SANS 10292:2013
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4.2 The source of energy shall be earthed at one point to comply with the requirements in 4.1(b).
NOTE With an open circuit in the protective conductor, multiple-point earthing will not significantly reduce the
prospective touch voltage unless the resistance to earth is very low.
The advantages of self-monitoring can be impaired by multiple-point earthing and should therefore
be applied with caution.
CAUTION In areas where the risk of electrolytic corrosion is high (for example, in the
vicinity of d.c. traction systems), it is necessary to ensure that the introduction of a multiplepoint system earthing does not aggravate the corrosion problems.
5 Types of system earthing

5.1 System earthing identification code
NOTE The system earthing identification code defined in IEC 60364-1, IEC 60364-5-51 and 60364-5-55 has
wide international acceptance and is used as the basis for this standard.
5.1.1 The common types of system earthing using these identification codes are described in 5.2.
TN-C-S and TN-S systems earthing are prescribed for use in South Africa.
5.1.2 The first letter of the identification code given in IEC 60364-1, IEC 60364-5-51 and
IEC 60364-5-55 denotes the relationship of the source of energy to earth, as follows:
a) T is one or more parts are connected direct to earth; and
b) I is all live parts are isolated from earth or one point is connected to earth through an impedance.
5.1.3 The second letter of the identification code denotes the relationship of the exposed
conductive parts of the consumer's installation to earth, as follows:
a) T is the exposed conductive parts of the consumer's electrical installation are connected direct to
earth, independently of the earthing of any point of the source of energy; and
b) N is the exposed conductive parts of the consumer's electrical installation are connected direct to
the source earth, which, in the case of an a.c. system, is usually the transformer neutral point.
5.1.4 The designation, TN, is subdivided depending on the arrangement of the neutral and
protective conductors. That arrangement is denoted by a further letter or letters, as follows:
a) C is the neutral and protective functions on the LV distributor and in the consumer's electrical
installation are combined in a single conductor;
b) S is the neutral and protective functions on the LV distributor and in the consumer's electrical
installation are provided by separate conductors; and
c) C-S is the neutral and protective functions on the LV distributor are combined in a single
conductor and in the consumer's electrical installation are provided by separate conductors.

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5.2 Overview of types of LV system earthing
5.2.1 TN-C-S system earthing Neutral and protective functions combined in a
single conductor between the source and the point of supply and separated in the
consumer's electrical installation
5.2.1.1 For new distributors and new services of existing distributors, only TN-C-S and
TN-S system earthing (see 5.2.2) shall be used.
5.2.1.2 The usual form of a TN-C-S system earthing is as shown in figure 1, where the supply is
TN-C and the arrangement in the consumer's electrical installation is TN-C-S.
5.2.1.3 All exposed conductive parts of a consumer's installation are connected to the
PEN conductor via the supply earth terminal.
NOTE This is one of the preferred methods of LV system earthing and is dealt with in detail in 7.1.1, 7.1.2 and
7.2.1.
The integrity of the PEN conductor is of paramount importance. With an open circuit in the
PEN conductor, dangerous voltages can appear at the supply earth terminal, which might not be
prevented by multiple-point earthing of the PEN conductor.
Key
L
L1, L2 and L3
N
PE
PEN
Live
Line voltages
Neutral
Protective earth conductor
Conductor that functions as both a PE conductor and a neutral conductor
Figure 1 TN-C-S system earthing

SANS 10292:2013
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5.2.2 TN-S system earthing Separate neutral and protective conductors
throughout the system earthing
5.2.2.1 The protective conductor (PE), which is connected to the source earth, is either a separate
conductor or the metallic covering of the cable (see figure 2).
5.2.2.2 All exposed conductive parts of a consumer's installation are connected to this protective
conductor via the supply earth terminal and the service connection.
Key
L
L1, L2 and L3
N
PE
Live
Line voltages
Neutral
Figure 2 TN-S system earthing
5.2.3 TT system earthing

All exposed conductive parts of a consumer's installation are connected to a consumer's earth
electrode that is electrically independent of the source earth (see figure 3).
NOTE This system relies on a low-impedance earth both at the source transformer and at every consumer's
installation. The system is impractical in most parts of Southern Africa owing to high soil resistivity and earthing
conductor losses. It has the added disadvantage that the loss of earth connection is not inherently
self-monitoring. It is not considered further in this standard; however, further information can be obtained from
IEC 60364-1, IEC 60364-5-51 and IEC 60364-5-55.
10

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Key
L
L1, L2 and L3
N
Live
Line voltages
Neutral
Figure 3 TT system earthing
5.2.4 IT system earthing

5.2.4.1 The source of energy is connected either to earth through a deliberately introduced high
earthing impedance or it is isolated from earth (typically more than 1 000 ) (see figure 4).
5.2.4.2 All exposed conductive parts of a consumer's installation are connected to an earth
electrode.
NOTE This is a special application usually found in an isolated source/load situation, such as on ships, in
continuous process plants, and in hospitals. It is not considered further in this standard; however, further
information can be obtained from IEC 60364-1, IEC 60364-5-51 and IEC 60364-5-55.
11

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Key
L
L1, L2 and L3
Live
Line voltages
Figure 4 IT system earthing
5.2.5 TN-C system earthing Neutral and protective functions combined in a single
conductor throughout the system earthing
5.2.5.1 All exposed conductive parts of a consumer's installation are connected to the
PEN conductor (see figure 5).
5.2.5.2 This system is in conflict with SANS 10142-1, which stipulates that a separate earth and
neutral be run to each appliance beyond the point of supply. The loss of the PEN conductor can
result in the appliance becoming live and earth leakage device might not operate. This system is not
approved for use in South Africa; however, further information can be obtained from IEC 60364-1,
IEC 60364-5-51 and IEC 60364-5-55.
12

SANS 10292:2013
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Key
L
L1, L2 and L3
PEN
Live
Line voltages
Figure 5 TN-C system earthing
6 Characteristics of recommended systems
6.1 General
6.1.1 Up to the point of supply, only TN-C-S and TN-S earthing systems may be used in
South Africa. The TN-C-S system earthing is preferred. (See clause 7).
6.1.2 Earth faults on a bare overhead distributor are rarely detectable using means such as circuitbreakers or fuse protection.
6.1.2 This condition can be addressed by means of catch guards or the positioning of the PE or
PEN conductors below the phase conductors.
6.2 TN-C-S system earthing

6.2.1 An open circuit in the PEN conductor of the distributor of a TN-C-S system will usually
a) be self-monitoring and manifest itself by producing abnormal voltages; and
b) produce a voltage that could exceed safe levels in the distributor beyond the open-circuit on the
neutral and possibly produce hazardous prospective touch voltage (this emphasizes the
importance of earth loop impedance testing (see 10.4)).
6.2.2 The TN-C-S system is suitable for installation underground because the loss of a protective
conductor without the loss of a phase conductor is unlikely.
6.2.3 The TN-C-S system is suitable for overhead lines using an aerial-bundled conductor with
either a bare or an insulated PEN conductor.
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6.2.4 The TN-C-S system can be used for bare, open wire, LV overhead systems, provided that
suitable precautions are taken against broken conductors, for example, to install catch guards for
horizontally configured systems, or to position the PEN conductor as the bottom conductor of a
vertically configured system.
6.3 TN-S system earthing

6.3.1 An open circuit in the neutral conductor of the distributor of a TN-S system will usually be
self-monitoring by producing abnormal voltages but will not produce a prospective touch voltage.
6.3.2 An open circuit in the PE conductor of a TN-S system is not self-monitoring. A subsequent
phase fault to the isolated section of the PE conductor becomes self-monitoring by imposing
potentially hazardous system voltages on the distributor, and hazardous prospective touch voltages
at the consumer's installation (this emphasizes the importance of earth loop impedance testing (see
10.4)).
6.3.3 Where there is a possibility of neutral conductor open-circuit operation without also affecting
the phase conductors (such as in an overhead system with individually supported conductors), the
use of a TN-S system is preferable because an open circuit in the neutral conductor does not mean
a loss of the protective earth. In an underground system, an open circuit in the neutral conductor will
usually be accompanied by an open circuit in a phase conductor, which will attract attention
because it is usually self-monitoring.
6.3.4 When an aerial-bundled conductor is used, the neutral and PE conductors shall be
electrically separate. The objective of the TN-S system is to prevent the PE conductor from carrying
load current.
6.3.5 The TN-S system can be used for bare, open wire, LV overhead systems, provided that
suitable precautions are taken against broken conductors, for example, to install catch guards for
horizontally configured systems or to position the neutral, or the PE conductor as the bottom
conductor of a vertically configured system.
6.3.6 The TN-S system earthing uses more conductor than the TN-C-S system earthing.
7 Earthing requirements for preferred LV distribution systems

NOTE Typical earthing arrangements are shown in annex A.
7.1 Earthing requirements common to both T-N-C-S and TN-S systems

7.1.1 The distributor shall be earthed at the source of energy to create an earth return path. The
design of the source earthing shall be based on the results of soil resistivity tests and earth
resistance measurements.
7.1.2 The substation medium-voltage equipment system earthing and the LV neutral system
earthing may be combined, provided that the medium-voltage source resistance does not exceed
3 (see figure A.3).
NOTE Owing to typical soil resistivity values in South Africa, it is usually only possible to achieve this value
with underground systems. In the case of PVC-sheathed underground cables, a separate bare earth conductor
would be required to achieve this value.
7.1.3 If the overall resistance to earth exceeds 3 , the medium-voltage equipment earth electrode
and the LV neutral earth electrode shall be kept separate (see figure A.4). In order to prevent an
overvoltage insulation breakdown between the medium-voltage and LV windings of the transformer,
14

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it is advisable to install a suitably rated surge arrester between the transformer tank (which is
connected to the medium-voltage earth) and the LV neutral. The two earthing cables shall be
insulated from each other to withstand the surge voltage developed across the surge arrester.
NOTE For this application, a cable with rated insulation 600 V to 1 000 V is sufficient.
7.1.4 When separation of the medium-voltage and LV neutral earth electrodes is required, this can
be achieved either by installing an LV neutral earth electrode at the first overhead pole (a span
length away from the substation), or by connecting the neutral at the substation by means of an
underground insulated wire that runs to a suitable earth electrode. The LV neutral earth electrode
should be separate from the medium-voltage earth electrode by at least 5 m, so as to be outside its
earth potential area. Care should be taken to ensure that there is no metallic or other low-resistance
conducting path between the medium-voltage system earthing and the LV system earthing.
7.1.5 If the medium-voltage earth and the LV earth electrodes are separate, the overall
resistance of the LV source earth needs to be such that, in the event of a breakdown between the
medium-voltage and LV windings of the transformer, the protection on the medium-voltage side of
the transformer will operate. To achieve this, the earth resistance values given in table 1 should be
attempted. If these values cannot be reached economically, earth fault protection with a lower
operating threshold shall be used to ensure correct operation.
The supplier shall ensure that his main earth fault protection will operate in the event of an
insulation breakdown between the medium-voltage and LV sides.
Table 1 Maximum permissible LV source earth resistance values
1
Transformer primary voltage
LV earth resistance value
kV
6,6
15
11
30
22
70
NOTE The resistance values given in column 2 are based

on the following assumptions:
a) that the medium-voltage earth fault protection at 40 A of
primary current can be obtained; and
b) that a factor of safety of approximately four is used to
ensure acceptable protection operation under
1) seasonal variations in soil resistivity, and
2) variations in the effectiveness of medium-voltage
source earthing.
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7.2 Distributor earthing requirements specifically for a TN-C-S system
earthing
7.2.1 In single-phase TN-C-S system earthing, the equivalent area of the PEN conductor of all
LV distributors should be not less than the area of the phase conductor. In three-phase TN-C-S
system earthing, the equivalent area of the PEN conductor should, for the purpose of physical
strength, be not less than half the area of a phase conductor with a minimum of 10 mm2. The
minimum cross-sectional area of the corresponding protective conductor for phase conductors of 16
mm2 to 35 mm2 is 16 mm2, and at least 50 % of the cross-sectional area for phase conductors
above 35 mm2.
7.2.2 No circuit-breakers, disconnectors, fuses or removable links shall be installed in the
PEN conductor between the transformer neutral and the furthest end of any LV distributor or service
connection.
7.2.3 All metalwork that is accessible from ground level and that forms part of the LV distributor
external to the substation, shall be bonded to the distributor PEN conductor. This metalwork
includes catch guards, metal poles, cable sheathing and armouring, metal enclosures of meters and
fuse cabinets, and stays not fitted with stay insulators. However, the medium-voltage substation
metalwork shall be bonded to the medium-voltage neutral earth separately.
7.2.4 In view of the importance of avoiding the possibility of an open circuit in the distributor
PEN conductor, particular attention shall be paid to the integrity of the PEN conductor with regard to
the design, construction, maintenance and operation of the LV distribution system.
7.2.5 Compression joints or duplicate connectors shall be used on overhead lines for all joints in,
and connections to, the distributor PEN conductor.
CAUTION In the case of an open circuit on the PEN conductor, dangerous voltages to earth
could prevail (this emphasizes the importance of regular earth loop impedance testing (see
10.4)).
7.3 Distributor earthing requirements specifically for a TN-S system earthing

7.3.1 In single-phase TN-S systems, the equivalent area of the neutral conductor should be not
less than the area of the phase conductor. In three-phase TN-S systems, the equivalent area of the
neutral conductor should be not less than half the area of a phase conductor.
7.3.2 For physical strength, the neutral and the PE conductor should be of copper equivalent area
not less than 10 mm2. The minimum cross-sectional area of the corresponding protective conductor
for phase conductors of 16 mm2 to 35 mm2 is 16 mm2; for phase conductors above 35 mm2 it is at
least 50 % of the cross-sectional area.
7.3.3 If necessary, to ensure adequate fault current to operate the protection for an earth fault at
the furthest point of a distributor, the PE conductor may require a larger cross-sectional area than
specified in 7.3.2.
7.3.4 The PE conductor shall be able to carry the maximum fault current to be expected for the
period of operation at any point in the distribution system.
7.3.5 No circuit-breakers, disconnectors, fuses or removable links shall be installed in the neutral
conductor between the transformer neutral and the furthest end of any LV distributor, or service
connection.
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7.3.6 All metalwork that is accessible from ground level, and that forms part of the LV distributor
external to the substation, shall be bonded to the distributor PE conductor. This metalwork includes
catch guards, metal poles, cable sheathing and armouring, metal enclosures of meters and fuse
cabinets, as well as stays not fitted with stay insulators. However, the medium-voltage substation
metalwork shall be separately bonded to the medium-voltage earth.
7.3.7 In the case of overhead lines, compression joints or duplicate connectors shall be used for all
joints in, and connections to, the distributor PE conductor. In view of the importance of avoiding the
possibility of an open circuit in the distributor PE conductor, only high quality jointing components
shall be used and installed strictly in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
CAUTION In the case of a TN-S system earthing, an open circuit on the PE conductor is not
self-monitoring. A subsequent earth fault on the isolated section of the PE conductor could
impose potentially hazardous voltages on this section and on everything connected to it.
7.4 Service connection requirements

7.4.1 Service connections from a TN-C-S system earthing
7.4.1.1 The supplier shall be responsible for the safety of the service connection up to the point of
supply. If the point of supply is outside the premises, the supplier shall be responsible for the safety
of the service connection at least up to the point where the service connection crosses the
boundary of the consumer's property. (See figure 6.)
Key
L
L1, L2 and L3
N
PE
PEN
Live
Line voltages
Neutral
Figure 6 TN-C-S system earthing service connection

7.4.1.2 Open-wire service connections shall not be used. The service connection from a
TN-C-S system earthing shall use a cable with a combined neutral and earth, or a separate neutral
and earth configuration.
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SANS 10292:2013
Edition 2
7.4.1.3 The cross-sectional area of the earth conductor used for a single-phase service connection
that comprises a separate neutral and earth cable shall be not less than half the cross-sectional
area of the neutral conductor.
7.4.1.4 A three-phase service connection shall comprise three-phase conductors and a combined
neutral and earth conductor. The equivalent area of the combined neutral and earth cable (CNE)
conductor shall be not less than half the cross-sectional area of a phase conductor.
7.4.1.5 The supply earth terminal (see 3.36) shall be created by the supplier at the point of supply.
7.4.1.6 In the interest of safety and security of supply, the use of a concentric cable is
recommended.
7.4.2 Service connection from a TN-S system earthing (see figure 7)

7.4.2.1 Open-wire service connections shall not be used. The service connection from a
TN-S system earthing shall use separate neutral and earth conductors.
7.4.2.2 A single-phase or multi-phase service connection shall have an earth conductor of crosssectional area not less than half the cross-sectional area of the phase conductor.
7.4.2.3 The PE conductor shall be connected to the supply earth terminal at the point of supply.
7.4.2.4 The neutral conductor shall be electrically separate from the PE conductor.
7.4.2.5 For a single-phase supply, the use of a split concentric cable is recommended in the
interest of safety and avoidance of illegal connections.
Key
L
L1, L2 and L3
N
PE
Live
Line voltages
Neutral
Figure 7 TN-S system earthing service connection
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SANS 10292:2013
Edition 2
8 Earth connections
8.1 Supply transformers and associated metalwork
The transformer tank and associated metalwork shall be connected to the medium-voltage surge
arrester earth electrode by means of a cable of appropriate cross-sectional area to withstand
system fault currents.
8.2 Low-voltage distribution system earthing

The PE or PEN conductor and all connections of an LV distributor shall be of appropriate crosssectional area to withstand prospective fault currents. Aluminium conductors and bimetallic
connections should be adequately protected against corrosion.
8.3 Earthing information

NOTE For detailed information on the installation of earthing systems and earth electrodes, refer to
SANS 1063, SANS 10142-1, SANS 10198-3, SANS 10198-12 and SANS 10199.
8.3.1 Supply earth terminal

The supplier shall provide a supply earth terminal at the point of supply.
8.3.2 Earthing cables

Earthing cables, preferably of copper, should be as short as possible and should be secured and
protected against damage, deterioration and loss.
8.3.3 Materials for earth electrodes

8.3.3.1 The following materials can be used for earth electrodes:
a) Bare copper, either in stranded, strip or in rod form. Bare copper is considered the most suitable
general material for earth electrodes. Its main disadvantages are its cost and its susceptibility to
theft.
b) Galvanized iron or steel, either in stranded, strip or rod form. This material has a satisfactory
record for survival in non-aggressive soils and it is more economical than copper. Copper-plated
steel that complies with SANS 1063 could be used when a combination of strength and low
resistance is required.
c) Stainless steel, which could be used where soil conditions are aggressive, for example, soil with
a high salt content.
8.3.3.2 Bare aluminium is unsuitable as an earth electrode.
8.3.3.3 Galvanized iron and steel electrodes should not be buried near bare copper.
8.3.4 Types of source earth electrode

The following types of earth electrode are commonly used:
a) Trench earths that comprise a copper or galvanized steel conductor laid at least 500 mm below
ground level, and that are usually used at the time when the underground cable is being
installed. This type of earth electrode provides a relatively large contact area between the
19

SANS 10292:2013
Edition 2
electrode and the surrounding soil makes contact with soils of various types and of varying
moisture content along the route, and it is economical to install.
b) Earth rods of bare copper, copper-plated steel, or stainless or galvanized steel that are designed
for the purpose of penetrating the ground to a depth of several metres. A low-resistance earth
can sometimes be obtained by driving in multiple earth rods in order to provide parallel earthing
paths. In the latter case, the general practice is to separate rods by a distance not less than their
length.
c) Foundation earths for substation buildings are obtained by electrically connecting the
installation's earth terminal to the foundation reinforcing steel to establish a constant lowresistance earth on large structures. Precautions need to be taken against corrosion at electrical
connections.
9 Interconnections and extensions

9.1 Interconnection of systems with different power sources
Similar systems can be interconnected. Owing to resultant critical changes which can occur in the
electrical characteristics of combined system earthing, caution should be exercised when
interconnecting networks with different types of system earthing.
9.2 Extension of one system by another of a different type

Figures 8 to 11 show how one system can be extended by another system of a different type. The
notes to the figures stipulate the precautions that have to be taken with each of these extensions.
Key
L
N
PE
PEN
Live
Neutral
The neutral and PE conductors are connected to the PEN conductor at the point of extension but shall remain
electrically separated thereafter.
Figure 8 A TN-C-S system earthing with a TN-S system earthing extension
20

SANS 10292:2013
Edition 2
Key
L
N
PE
PEN
Live
Neutral
The PEN conductor is connected to the neutral only.

The PE conductor is not extended beyond the point of extension.
In order to prevent the PE conductor from carrying current, the PE and PEN conductors are not connected
together.
Figure 9 A TN-S system earthing with a TN-C-S system earthing extension
Key
L
N
PE
Live
Neutral
The PE conductor and the neutral shall remain electrically separated after the point of extension.
NOTE The PE conductor is connected to the neutral at the point of extension.
Figure 10 A TT system earthing with a TN-S system earthing extension
21

SANS 10292:2013
Edition 2
Key
L
N
PE
PEN
Live
Neutral
NOTE 1 The PEN conductor is connected to the neutral at the point of extension.
NOTE 2 It is recommended that the supplier change present TT system earthing to TN-C-S system earthing
at the consumer's premises by connecting the neutral to the consumer's earth terminal (see 7.2).
Figure 11 A TT system earthing with a TN-C-S system earthing extension
10 Testing
10.1 General
The tests given in 10.2 to 10.4 are recommended for new or modified distribution systems.
10.2 Source earth resistance test

Measure the source earth resistance using one of the methods given in SANS 10199. Record the
method used and the value obtained for future comparison. Check the values for compliance with
table 1. This test should be performed on a regular basis.
10.3 Voltage and polarity test

After a connection has been performed, measure the voltage and the polarity at the point of supply
for reasonable compliance with table 2.
22

SANS 10292:2013
Edition 2
Table 2 Standard voltage and polarity

1
Measurement position
Standard voltage
V
Between phases
Between each phase to neutral
Between neutral and earth
400
230
0
10.4 Earthing loop impedance test

After completion of a connection or on receipt of a "Notification of a potential danger" (see
SANS 10142-1), the supplier shall carry out an earthing loop impedance test at each point of supply
to prove the integrity of the protective conductor and to ensure protection operation. The fault
current shall be equal to or greater than twice the supplier's declared rated current. This test will
assist in identifying abnormalities in the PE or PEN path to the source earth.
23

SANS 10292:2013
Edition 2
Annex A
(informative)
Typical earthing arrangements

Figures A.1 to A.5 show typical earthing arrangements.
NOTE The alternatives for earthing are described in 7.1.1.
Key
GL
Ground level
Figure A.1 Earthing at pole transformer feeding an overhead line
24

SANS 10292:2013
Edition 2
Key
GL
Ground level
Figure A.2 Earthing at pole transformer feeding an underground cable
25

SANS 10292:2013
Edition 2
Key
N Neutral
Figure A.3 Ground-mounted substation with an overall resistance

to earth not exceeding 3 (see 7.1.2)
26

SANS 10292:2013
Edition 2
Key
GL Ground level
N Neutral
NOTE 1 If the distance between the LV distribution board and the medium-voltage metalwork exceeds 2 m
and no electrical connection exists between them, the medium-voltage earth connection (+) may be removed
and the LV earth connection (*) installed. For all other situations, to avoid touch voltages, the medium-voltage
earth connection (+) is installed and the LV earth connection (*) is removed.
NOTE 2 If separate medium-voltage switchgear is used, this should be bonded to the transformer metalwork
(see also figure A.5).
Figure A.4 Ground-mounted substation with an overall

combined resistance to earth exceeding 3 (see 7.1.1)
27

SANS 10292:2013
Edition 2
Key
GL Ground level
N Neutral
NOTE If separate medium-voltage switchgear is used, this should be bonded to the transformer metalwork
(see also figure A.4).
Figure A.5 Ground-mounted substation with a

transformer-mounted LV compartment
28

SANS 10292:2013
Edition 2
Bibliography
BS 7671, Requirements for electrical installations. IET Wiring Regulations.
IEC 60050-151, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary Part 151: Electrical and magnetic
devices.
IEC 60479-1, Effects of current on human beings and livestock Part 1: General aspects.
SANS 1507-6, Electric cables with extruded solid dielectric insulation for fixed installations
(300/500 V to 1 900/3 300 V) Part 6: Service cables.
SANS 1019, Standard voltages, currents and insulation levels for electricity supply.
SANS 1418-2, Aerial bundled conductor systems Part 2: Assembled insulated conductor bundles.
SANS 10198-3, The selection, handling and installation of electric power cables of rating not
exceeding 33 kV Part 3: Earthing systems General provisions.
SANS 10198-12(SABS 0198-12), The selection, handling and installation of electric power cables of
rating not exceeding 33 kV Part 12: Installation of earthing system.
SANS 10313, Protection against lightning Physical damage to structures and life hazard.
SABS
29

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SABS Standards Division

The objective of the SABS Standards Division is to develop, promote and maintain South African
National Standards. This objective is incorporated in the Standards Act, 2008 (Act No. 8 of 2008).
Amendments and Revisions
South African National Standards are updated by amendment or revision. Users of South African
National Standards should ensure that they possess the latest amendments or editions.
The SABS continuously strives to improve the quality of its products and services and would
therefore be grateful if anyone finding an inaccuracy or ambiguity while using this standard would
inform the secretary of the technical committee responsible, the identity of which can be found in
the foreword.
Tel: +27 (0) 12 428 6666 Fax: +27 (0) 12 428 6928
The SABS offers an individual notification service, which ensures that subscribers automatically
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permission must be obtained.
Details and advice can be obtained from the Senior Manager.
Tel: +27 (0) 12 428 6666 Fax: +27 (0) 12 428 6928 E-mail: info@sabs.co.za

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This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

DRAFT SOUTH AFRICAN STANDARD (DSS):

Reference SANS 10292/3

Date of circulation 7 May 2013

Closing date 8 July 2013

IN ADDITION TO THEIR EVALUATION AS BEING ACCEPTABLE FOR INDUSTRIAL, TECHNOLOGICAL,

AZ96.10 2013/03/14 sabs pta

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL STANDARD

Earthing of low-voltage (LV) distribution

Published by SABS Standards Division

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

2 Normative references ............................................................................................................

5 Types of system earthing ......................................................................................................

6 Characteristics of recommended systems ............................................................................

7 Earthing requirements for preferred LV distribution systems ................................................

8 Earth connections ..................................................................................................................

9 Interconnections and extensions ...........................................................................................

Annex A (informative) Typical earthing arrangements ...........................................................

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

Earthing of low-voltage (LV) distribution systems

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

SANS 10199, The design and installation of earth electrodes.

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

5 Types of system earthing

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

Figure 1 TN-C-S system earthing

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

Figure 2 TN-S system earthing

5.2.3 TT system earthing

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

Figure 3 TT system earthing

5.2.4 IT system earthing

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

Figure 4 IT system earthing

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

Figure 5 TN-C system earthing

6 Characteristics of recommended systems

6.2 TN-C-S system earthing

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

6.3 TN-S system earthing

7 Earthing requirements for preferred LV distribution systems

7.1 Earthing requirements common to both T-N-C-S and TN-S systems

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

Transformer primary voltage

LV earth resistance value

NOTE The resistance values given in column 2 are based

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

7.3 Distributor earthing requirements specifically for a TN-S system earthing

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

7.4 Service connection requirements

Figure 6 TN-C-S system earthing service connection

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.

7.4.2 Service connection from a TN-S system earthing (see figure 7)

Figure 7 TN-S system earthing service connection

This draft standard is exclusively for use on one standalone PC.