SINTEF Energy Research has extensive experience in performing measurements and calculations of power frequency and high frequency conditions of electrode systems

• Measurements of earth potential rise of large systems
• Measurements of touch and step voltages
• Measurements of earth resistance of small and medium electrode systems
• Calculations of power frequency and transient behaviour
• Training of personnel in electric utilities and consultants

For large earthing systems the heavy-current method is used in order to measure the potential rise as well as touch voltages at frequencies close to the power frequency. This method is also used when making measurements on large wind mill farms.

For small and medium systems the fall-of-potential method with a proper earth tester at frequencies below 150 Hz is used in order to measure the earth resistance.

Measurement of soil resistivities are made by the four probe Wenner method whereby the resistivity at different depths can be determined. 

Calculation of power frequency and high frequency conditions, which are of significant importance for lightning, is made by the CDEGS-software developed by SEStech in Canada.

We have been actively involved in training of utility personnel and consultans and have also arranged a number of technical seminars for the utility industry on topics of grounding and earth electrode systems.