Why Salt And Charcoal Are Added To The Earthing Pit?
Salt & charcoal are frequently used in earthing pits to increase soil conductivity and improve grounding system performance.
Following is the reason they’re used.
Salt (Sodium Chloride)
Salt is applied to earthing trenches to boost the soil’s conductivity. Salt dissolves in water, forming sodium (Na⁺) & chloride (Cl⁻) ions.
These ions allow electrical current to pass more easily through the soil, lowering resistance in the grounding system.
Salt serves to keep resistance levels in the earthing system low, allowing electrical faults and lightning strikes to be dissipated effectively.
Charcoal
Charcoal, particularly activated charcoal, is recognized for its porous structure and large surface area, which enable it to absorb & retain moisture.
Moisture in the soil is necessary to maintain optimum conductivity. Charcoal helps to keep the soil around the earthing pit moist, which is important in arid or dry conditions.
Charcoal can also be used as a filler material, helping to distribute current and ensure consistent grounding across the soil surrounding the earthing electrode.
It also reduces the risk of corrosion of the earthing electrode by absorbing moisture & limiting direct contact with corrosive materials in the soil.
Salt and charcoal combine to create an environment within the earthing pit that maximizes conductivity, assures low resistance levels, and provides good grounding for electrical equipment, hence improving safety and preventing electrical risks.