Under maximum ground-fault current flow, an effective equipment grounding system should maintain which of the following?

An effective equipment grounding system is essential for the safety and reliability of electrical installations. Under maximum ground-fault current flow, the system should maintain a low potential difference between non-current carrying metal parts. This is crucial because when a ground fault occurs, the grounding system is designed to minimize the voltage rise between these metal parts and the ground. By keeping the potential difference low, the grounding system helps prevent electric shock hazards and ensures that any fault current can safely flow back to the ground without posing a risk to personnel or equipment.

Maintaining a low potential difference helps ensure that all exposed conductive parts remain at nearly the same potential, reducing the chance of dangerous voltage levels that could be present if the grounding were inadequate. In this way, the grounding system provides a safe pathway for fault currents, enabling protective devices, such as circuit breakers or fuses, to operate correctly and disconnect the power promptly in the event of a fault.

These principles of grounding and bonding help ensure the safety and functionality of electrical systems, particularly in environments where electrical equipment is present. A well-designed grounding system is crucial for protecting both people and equipment from the potential dangers associated with electrical faults.