Connection points

Connection points are the central element for the permanent connection to earth. They must be watertight, corrosion-resistant and able to withstand short-circuit currents without damage. On the concrete surface, the structural chemical, corrosive influence on metals is extremely strong and electrolytic corrosion also has an effect due to the combination of different metals. Connection points must therefore be made of a corrosion-resistant material such as stainless steel. Changing the material in the concrete is unproblematic.

There are two types of connection points. Common connection lugs can be used, eliminating the need for any cross-connections. Inside the building, connection points are required for connecting the neutral earthing conductor, the equipotential bonding conductor, the earthing conductor for low-current and data processing systems, etc. Connection points outside the building are used for lightning protection systems.

A connection point to the foundation earth electrode should be provided in the immediate vicinity of the connecting overcurrent breaker if possible. Further connection points to the foundation earth electrode must be provided at all points where cables are routed into the interior of the building. In addition, sufficient connection points should be provided for the equipotential bonding cables of air conditioning, ventilation and heating systems and information and communication technology systems as well as lightning protection systems. In these cases, the foundation earth electrode also fulfills the function of the main equipotential bonding conductor.
Installing connection points on buildings that do not require lightning protection is recommended in order to facilitate subsequent connection work. For this purpose, at least two connection points must be provided at the corners of the building, diagonally offset.

Minimum requirements:

• Location of a connection point in the immediate vicinity of the connection circuit breaker
• Arrangement of further connection points in the area of air conditioning and heating systems, data processing systems, etc. for equipotential bonding.
• Arrangement of sufficient connection points for a lightning protection system, whereby the combination with already provided connection points is possible.