Question 1: What connection technology is available for the earthing rod?

Horstmann uses phase clamps with bayonet fitting as standard. However, some terminals are also available with a hexagon fitting. The earthing sticks and hot sticks are therefore available with a bayonet head or hexagonal head.

Question 2: When may the earthing cable have a smaller cross-section than the phase cable?

Earthing and short-circuiting devices with a reduced earth wire cross-section can be used in all networks without direct neutral earthing (see IEC 61230 or VDE 0683-100).

In networks with direct neutral earthing (e.g. usually also in low-voltage networks), the short-circuiting and earthing cable cross-sections must be the same.

Question 3: Where is the identification data on the earthing and short-circuiting devices?

The transparent centrepiece (junction element) contains a visible label with all data such as cross-section, rated current Ir in kA, rated time tr in s, peak factor, year of manufacture, number of the relevant IEC standard and manufacturer.

Question 4: What are the requirements for a “working earth”?

In accordance with DIN VDE 0105-100 if disconnection points of electrical installations and overhead lines with rated voltages above 1 kV are earthed and short-circuited in a short-circuit-proof manner, a cross-section of the earthing and short-circuiting cables of 25 mm² Cu is sufficient at the place of work.

Question 5: What should be considered when selecting the cable length?

The weight of the components should be kept as low as possible with regard to operation. The lengths of earthing and short-circuiting cables should be adapted to the system dimensions and distances between connection points. Rope lengths of less than 1.2 times the distance between connection points should be avoided. Ropes that are too long, over 1.5 times the distance, result in unacceptable mechanical stresses and movements. However, the rope can be anchored using reliable aids.