In a feeder arrangement, what is the role of the grounded conductor?

In a feeder arrangement, what is the role of the grounded conductor?

• A. To carry return current
• B. To bond to the grounding electrode
• C. To carry fault current to ground
• D. To shield the circuit

Answer: (A)

The grounded conductor provides the return path for current in normal operation, completing the circuit. Current leaves the source on the hot conductors and returns on the neutral, so the neutral carries the load current back to the source. It isn’t meant to carry fault current to ground (that’s the function of the equipment grounding conductor and the grounding system), nor is it used to shield the circuit. Bonding to the grounding electrode happens at the service equipment, while the neutral is typically kept separate from the grounding path in a feeder. So carrying return current is the best fit for its role.

The grounded conductor provides the return path for current in normal operation, completing the circuit. Current leaves the source on the hot conductors and returns on the neutral, so the neutral carries the load current back to the source. It isn’t meant to carry fault current to ground (that’s the function of the equipment grounding conductor and the grounding system), nor is it used to shield the circuit. Bonding to the grounding electrode happens at the service equipment, while the neutral is typically kept separate from the grounding path in a feeder. So carrying return current is the best fit for its role.