Voltage gradient modifications near equipotential planes

Abstract

The equipotential plane is a widely used means for reducing the level of neutral-to-earth voltage in dairy cow contact areas. The authors examine the voltage gradient in the earth adjacent to equipotential planes and show the gradient alterations caused by different modifications. Step potentials for a dairy cow are defined, and a 1.0 V step potential is recommended for design purposes. The most effective means of controlling voltage gradients near an equipotential plane uses bare copper conductors in the earth extending radially out from the plane, with the conductor depth increasing with distance from the plane.<>