Performance Evaluation of the Earthing System in Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Nigeria

O. S. Omorogiuwa; Olusola Fayose

O. S. Omorogiuwa University of Benin, Benin City
Olusola Fayose Nigerian Electricity Management services Agency

Keywords: Earth Resistance; Earthing System; Earthing; Lightning Arresters; Resistivity; Substation.

Abstract

This paper presents the performance evaluation of the earthing system in Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma, Nigeria. The earthing system at strategic locations (main generators/switch control house and transformers at Works Departments, transformer substation and generator house at the Faculty of Physical Sciences, transformer substation and generator house at School Main Library, generator and the Administrative building, and earthing system and lightning arrester at Cordelia Agbebaku Auditorium) in Ambrose Alli University were evaluated. Earthing resistance of each locations were tested, all earthing resistances were measured using earthing tester for a period of one year (November, 2016 to October 2017). The data of all locations were collated and each location earthing resistance calculated. Results showed that the earthing resistance varies with the season of the year; it is high during the dry season and low during raining season due to the moisture content. Since the value of the earth resistance depends largely on the type and resistivity of soil, the minimum earth resistance of 2.0 ohms and below was used as a standard as stipulated by Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) to evaluate the earthing resistance of the selected locations. From the results there was an indication that most of the earthing systems tested might have depreciated due to ageing of the installations.

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