Helical piles as an grounding electrode

[cukele]

Can Helical piles be used as a grounding electrode in place of a copper ground rod if helical piles are bonded to the ground grid?

 

[infinity]

I would say yes if they qualify under 250.52(A)(2).

 

[petersonra]

I am inclined to think so as long as they are metallic.

Incidentally, there is no requirement that ground rods be copper, it is just material option.

 

[electrofelon]

I wonder if the OP is talking about PV systems - that is what I think of when I hear "helical piles". I don't think they are typically driven deep enough to qualify.

 

[petersonra]

I wonder if the OP is talking about PV systems - that is what I think of when I hear "helical piles". I don't think they are typically driven deep enough to qualify.

I have heard of them being used as supports for decks in lieu of concrete. I have never actually seen any around here though.

 

[winnie]

I am specifically looking at them as a foundation for a solar pergola. Because of the weight and size of the structure these need to be somewhat larger than those required for ground mount solar.

The largest ones sold by 'Krinner' are 140mm in diameter and 3 meters long and would qualify as a grounding electrode. Larger ground screws and helical piles are made using extensions.

https://krinnerfoundations.us/files/Krinner%20Ground%20Screw%20-%20KSF%20M%20Series%20140%20x%202100-3000.pdf

(For my application the 76mm x 2100mm devices look just dandy!)

Jon