Abstract:
The grounding is the connection of the metal structures of machines and electrical equipment in locked connection with the
ground to prevent destructive potential. Besides, to connect the neutral point in the three-phase networks to the ground directly or
through resistors. According to the international standards, the agreed grounding resistance should be 1 Ω or lower. It is challenging
to get the standard value of grounding resistance under various environmental conditions. Therefore, to manage troubled environments,
the Bentonite substance was proposed to use, considered soil substitute and filler material for electrical grounding applications. The
ground resistance network of the 33/11 kV substations with closed electrodes mixed with Bentonite was examined and measured the
resistance performance of the ground network at various anchorage points for one month. The results showed a considerable decrease
in the earth resistance in the network that contains a certain percentage of the substance Bentonite. Those resistors' performance was
studied utilizing an earth tester device and the simulations of these networks through the ETAP program. The on-site obtained resistance
confirmed the simulation study when mixed with Bentonite material and it was significantly reduced. In addition, the proposed material
could maintain acceptable small ground resistance under various conditions.