Hello fellas. I have a large building with multiple ground points, some are via copper rods, some are via pipes. However the ground is contaminated: one of the phases is connected to ground so ground (green) wire is always under power (unsafe?). The thing is that I cannot fix it, some rooms are locked so I won't be able to find the source of the problem. Now can I fix it by simply inserting two more rods into surrounding area (and measure resistance) and create a safe ground? Will that create a safe alternative? Thanks much!!!!

 

Call the power company. They are obligated to fix screw-ups like this. (At least in the USA).

 

However the ground is contaminated: one of the phases is connected to ground so ground (green) wire is always under power (unsafe?). The thing is that I cannot fix it, some rooms are locked so I won't be able to find the source of the problem. Now can I fix it by simply inserting two more rods into surrounding area (and measure resistance) and create a safe ground? Will that create a safe alternative? Thanks much!!!!

Need a bit more information? If one of the phases is connected to ground is this to form a neutral as in one corner of a delta system grounded or is it what is euphemistically known as a wild or high leg system to obtain a neutral?
In what way is one phase connected to earth ground a danger?
Max.

 

I doubt if it helps, but every one of my barns/shops; has an individual ground rod.

 

However the ground is contaminated: one of the phases is connected to ground so ground (green) wire is always under power (unsafe?). The thing is that I cannot fix it, some rooms are locked so I won't be able to find the source of the problem.

Or is this a case of a phase being grounded that otherwise is above ground?
If so it would (should) trip a breaker or blow a fuse if it has a separate grounded neutral?

A definitive source is SOARES Book on Grounding published by the IAEI (Electrical Inspectors Assoc) Of which the NEC grounding definition is based on.

I doubt if it helps, but every one of my barns/shops; has an individual ground rod.

This is fairly normal, especially if they have their own service panel.
Max.

 

Without knowing your location one cannot give a proper/complete answer.
In the US you should reference article 250 of the National Electrical Code as well as any other applicable sections.
Also what is meant by the "ground is contaminated" ?

You also MUST find the building super or whoever can "unlock" these locked rooms.

Are you even a licensed electrician?

 

Agree!!! This might be a life or death situation. You absolutely must understand the whole circuit or get somebody that does. No guessing allowed!

 

Don't mess with a corner grounded delta.

Find a professional who doesn't have to ask.

 

Hello fellas. I have a large building with multiple ground points, some are via copper rods, some are via pipes. However the ground is contaminated: one of the phases is connected to ground so ground (green) wire is always under power (unsafe?). The thing is that I cannot fix it, some rooms are locked so I won't be able to find the source of the problem. Now can I fix it by simply inserting two more rods into surrounding area (and measure resistance) and create a safe ground? Will that create a safe alternative? NO!!!Thanks much!!!!

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Don't mess with a corner grounded delta.

.

From my experience from working with those on other sites, there are still some UN-orthodox methods used out there, it is not the fault of the person having to operate with the system.
Max.

 

Basically when I measure ac voltage between the ground and hot terminal I get 120 volts

 

Basically when I measure ac voltage between the ground and hot terminal I get 120 volts

In common conditions that is normal?
The complete configuration would have to be known.
What is your country/location etc.
Max.

 

From my experience from working with those on other sites, there are still some UN-orthodox methods used out there, it is not the fault of the person having to operate with the system.
Max.

True.

Repairs to an unknown system by an inexperienced person is another story.

 

We'll I'm not sure about configuration. Just thought that this May not be normal and looking for ways to fix it. I'm in New York.

 

Then in a normal installation such as in a residential or apartment situation, this is normal.
Could be nothing to fix?
Max.

 

oh boy..
Just stop now before you kill yourself or someone else.
If there is any need for electrical inspection/modification in that building you MUST call a licensed electrician.
This isn't a job for you..

 

Basically when I measure ac voltage between the ground and hot terminal I get 120 volts

I rest my case.

 

We'll I'm not sure about configuration. Just thought that this May not be normal and looking for ways to fix it. I'm in New York.

Just curious, What was your involvement with this in the first place that gave you a reason for concern?
Max.

 

your 'phase' wouldn't happen to be colored white would it?