grounding within copper radials

[marti smith]

We have been asked to install a 100 amp single ph service for a small building in the yard (within the fenced-off area)of an am radio tower. I have no experience with radio towers hence the question: is the grounding that we will install for the service going to create any type of interference, or will it simply be more grounding within the area? I'll be looking up what I can find on it in the code, but any tidbits of help are appreciated. Thanks in advance-

 

[benaround]

marti,

I would make it clear, that if they need something special they need to spec. it out for

you, and they will be getting a normal 100a service.

 

[ceb58]

We have been asked to install a 100 amp single ph service for a small building in the yard (within the fenced-off area)of an am radio tower. I have no experience with radio towers hence the question: is the grounding that we will install for the service going to create any type of interference, or will it simply be more grounding within the area? I'll be looking up what I can find on it in the code, but any tidbits of help are appreciated. Thanks in advance-

Make them supply you with specs. What ever you do be careful
around the am tower. You touch it you die!

 

[gndrod]

Xmtr Site grounding

Xmtr Site grounding

The radial grounding from the site tower, if new construction, is direct buried to the tower shack apex and bond connected to an interior grounding bar around the interior wall behind the transmission equipment racks. This is from past experience of installing a new SE inside the concrete structure of an AM transmitter site. In the old days, there were no UFER ground requirements as there is today. Check with the Project EE and confirm on the plan specifications and with the AHJ for local compliance. rbj

 

[marti smith]

Thanks for the replies- I will put that advice into action.

 

[gndrod]

Thanks for the replies- I will put that advice into action.

I forgot....check on Surge Arrestor system bonding also...rbj

 

[K8MHZ]

The radials are part of the antenna system, the counterpoise to be exact.

The vertical towers are just 1/2 of the antennas, the radials provide a ground plane which is the other half.

You should seek permission to alter the ground plane from the station's engineer before proceeding. I would be more concerned about the risk of the intense RF field on the panel than the effect of the panel to the station's transmissions. Some AM stations run a half a million watts ERP.

You also need to consider bonding your GEC with the radials. It is required by the NEC but under engineering supervision at a radio station there may be other concerns.