What is the fundamental difference between grounding and bonding?

The fundamental difference between grounding and bonding lies in their specific purposes and applications. Grounding refers to the practice of connecting the electrical system or equipment to the earth. This connection helps to prevent electrical shock to personnel and protects equipment from overvoltage conditions, such as lightning strikes or transient voltage surges. Grounding provides a safe path for electric currents to dissipation into the ground, which is vital for the safety of individuals and the integrity of the electrical system.

On the other hand, bonding involves connecting different pieces of electrical equipment or conductive materials together to ensure that they have the same electrical potential. This practice minimizes the risk of electrical shock and reduces the chance of voltage differences between various components in a system, providing a safe and effective operational environment. Bonding essentially ensures that no stray voltages exist between interconnected equipment, which can help prevent electrical fires or equipment damage.

Understanding the distinct roles of grounding as a safety measure against fault currents and bonding as a method to create a uniform electrical potential is essential for ensuring both safety and efficacy in electrical systems.