Material science innovations enhance grounding components with better conductivity

The growth in demand for renewable energy is driving the evolution of earthing system design and development to meet new challenges. Technological advancements like IoT integration, improved materials, and smart grid capabilities are reshaping the industry and ensuring more reliable, efficient, and safer earthing systems to support modern electrical infrastructure. Let us know more from K. Janakiraman from OBO Bettermann India.

How do recent advancements in materials and GPR improve the reliability of grounding systems?

Earthing systems, though being a traditional method followed for decades, have seen recent trends in design involving the use of various software for calculation and verification. Some of the more recent technological advancements in earthing (grounding) systems include integrating Internet of Things (IoT) technology, enabling continuous real-time monitoring of grounding performance. Innovations in materials science have led to the development of grounding components with improved conductivity and corrosion resistance. Modern ground resistance testers are now digital, providing more accurate measurements and efficient data storage. Specialised GPR (Ground Potential Rise) sensors can measure potential rises in real-time, which is crucial during lightning strikes or short circuits. Monitoring GPR helps protect sensitive equipment and personnel by ensuring grounding systems effectively dissipate high fault currents, thereby maintaining system integrity. These advancements collectively contribute to more reliable, efficient, and safer earthing systems in industrial and commercial applications, aligning with the evolving demands of modern electrical infrastructure.

How is the growing demand for renewable energy influencing the design of earthing systems?

The growing demand for renewable energy significantly influences the design and development of earthing systems in several ways. Renewable energy systems, such as solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind energy generators, have unique requirements that necessitate tailored earthing solutions to ensure safety, performance, and reliability. Earthing systems in these applications are designed to handle fault currents and ensure proper coordination across interconnected systems, reducing risks such as overvoltages or equipment damage. Earthing designs incorporate robust grounding grids, larger conductors and materials capable of handling these currents without compromising safety or performance.

In the evolving decentralised power grids, how can IoT and smart grid technologies improve the reliability and efficiency of earthing systems?

IoT devices embedded in earthing systems enable real-time monitoring of ground resistance, soil moisture, and corrosion levels. This data allows for predictive maintenance, reducing system downtime and ensuring safety. The data analytics capabilities of smart grids can predict potential failures in earthing systems, allowing for proactive interventions and reducing costly outages. Optimised earthing systems contribute to better energy flow, minimising losses and enhancing the overall efficiency of the grid. By leveraging IoT and smart grid capabilities, the earthing systems industry can ensure reliability, safety, and adaptability in an increasingly decentralised and technology-driven power landscape.

What new products and innovations will OBO Bettermann showcase at ELECRAMA 2025 to engage stakeholders?

ELECRAMA 2025 is a premier global platform that fosters innovation, collaboration, and business growth in the electrical industry. For OBO Bettermann, it is an invaluable opportunity to showcase our cutting-edge solutions and engage with a global audience. At ELECRAMA, we will inaugurate exciting new products and display our comprehensive range, including cable support systems, lightning protection systems, underfloor systems, cable routing systems, and passive fire protection solutions. We aim to engage stakeholders through interactive product demonstrations, insightful discussions, and collaborative opportunities. We aim to understand evolving market needs, explore new partnerships, and expand our global footprint. By leveraging the platform’s extensive reach, we plan to identify potential clients, strengthen existing relationships, and showcase OBO Bettermann as a trusted leader in the electrical solutions space.