Ground and neutral bus

[state159]

Is it acceptable to mix the bare ground wires and the neutrals (white) on the same ground bus (and vice versa on the neutral bus) in a 200 amp Square D Homeline distribution panel? Both buses are bonded to ground.

 

[luke warmwater]

Re: Ground and neutral bus

Are you asking if they can share a hole or both be on the same bar?

 

[state159]

Re: Ground and neutral bus

Can both be on the same bar?

 

[luke warmwater]

Re: Ground and neutral bus

If this is the main panel, then yes.
If this is a sub-panel, then no.
not in same hole, main or sub.

 

[luke warmwater]

Re: Ground and neutral bus

Code reference: 408.20
408.21

Also read these two links: 1 2

 

[hornetd]

Re: Ground and neutral bus

At the risk of being thought of as quarrelsome may I suggest that the term sub panel not be used since it has no generally accepted definition. What I think would be clearer is to ask if the panel is service equipment or is it supplied by a feeder.
--
Tom

 

[luke warmwater]

Re: Ground and neutral bus

Tom, you are correct, please excuse my adopted 'slang' terms. TY

 

[rasmithircgov.com]

Re: Ground and neutral bus

On some panels that I've seen the manufactor instuction sticker in the panel. Saying for the neutral / equipment grounding bar 2 conductors of the same size under 1 hole and I believe if memory serves no larger then #10 wire

 

[jxofaltrds]

Re: Ground and neutral bus

NFPA inspection manual. PP147

Figure 6.19 Distribution arrangement in Which Feeders Supply Two Subpanels.

"Subpanels"

Mike P.

 

[bennie]

Re: Ground and neutral bus

In my 1899 edition of a civil and electrical engineering book, the term "supplementary switchboard" is used to describe additional switchboards.

It also states "these are normally constructed of wood, but due to the possibility of ignition, slate and soapstone products are being used for back boards now days".

Non-conductive material was the preference for safety from shock.