Garage

[stickboy1375]

Do I have to do anything like seperate the neutral/ground or a rod? Probably a dumb question...I'm used to larger panels as subs

A branch or multiwire branch circuit does not require a ground rod... as long as the branch circuit contains a EGC... Might just wanna read ART. 250.32 to refresh your memory...

 

[George Stolz]

Oakey, if you're going to consider the small panel at the garage as a "supplementary OCPD", then the UF is a branch circuit. The branch circuit would not require using (or installing) the GES at the detached structure, as mentioned.

Since there is an EGC in the UF, then you must seperate the neutrals and grounds to prevent objectionable current on the EGC between the buildings. The EGC is the effective ground fault current return path, and the neutral is to carry all the neutral current.

If the AHJ decides that the UF is a feeder, then you must use (or install) the GES at the garage. Bear in mind, the same rule applies to a house, a garage, or the Hilton - all electrodes available must be used, and if the Ufer is new, get ready with the hammer drill.

Edit to add: Check out the FAQ on this and let me know if it helps or hinders.

 

[Oakey]

Since there is an EGC in the UF, then you must seperate the neutrals and grounds to prevent objectionable current on the EGC between the buildings. The EGC is the effective ground fault current return path, and the neutral is to carry all the neutral current.

So in my single circuit 12/2 panel I do need to seperate them? I did not know that

would apply in a detached structure, but I'm here to learn
Thank you for your help, excellent drawing also. 15 years ago I would do little jobs like this without even thinking about grounds neutrals. Now more than ever I find myself questioning my experience in the field more and more only to find out how much I still need to learn, even the simple stuff.

 

[George Stolz]

So in my single circuit 12/2 panel I do need to seperate them? I did not know that

would apply in a detached structure...

Yes, for sure. The bare conductor inside the UF cable is connected to the Equipment Grounding System of the first building. So, if you were to connect the EGC to the neutral at the second building, then it would violate 250.6, among other sections.

Another key section it would violate is 250.32(B)(1).

250.32(B) says that detached structures shall be installed per (1) or (2). Since there is an EGC in your branch circuit, you must install per (1).

250.32(B)(1) Equipment Grounding Conductor. An equipment grounding conductor as described in 250.118 shall be run with the supply conductors and connected to the building or structure disconnecting means and to the grounding electrode(s). The equipment grounding conductor shall be used for grounding or bonding of equipment, structures, or frames required to be grounded or bonded. The equipment grounding conductor shall be sized in accordance with 250.122. Any installed grounded conductor shall not be connected to the equipment grounding conductor or to the grounding electrode(s).

Paraphrasing: Any neutral shall not be connected to a EGC in this situation.

Now more than ever I find myself questioning my experience in the field more and more only to find out how much I still need to learn, even the simple stuff.

Me too. The other day somebody asked me what size box I needed to grab for a pull point in EMT, and I realized that there was a very basic, simple rule I hadn't memorized yet.