Why should high impedance grounding be used in specific installations?

High impedance grounding is particularly beneficial for specific installations due to its ability to reduce fault current and enhance system reliability. In systems where high impedance grounding is used, the connection to ground does not allow excessive fault current to flow in the event of a fault, leading to lower levels of current during a ground fault condition. This reduction in fault current is crucial because it minimizes the risk of equipment damage, lowers the potential for vaporization of conductors, and decreases the likelihood of electrical fires.

Moreover, by limiting fault currents, high impedance grounding can improve the availability of electrical systems. It enables operation even during transient fault conditions, which allows for quick fault detection and isolation while maintaining power to unaffected portions of the system. Consequently, the overall reliability of the electrical installation is enhanced because the system can remain in operation, reducing downtime and associated costs.

In contrast, other grounding methods such as solid grounding can result in high fault currents that can cause significant damage and disrupt operations. Thus, in specific applications like industrial plants or data centers where uninterrupted service and equipment protection are pivotal, high impedance grounding serves an essential role.