Get Grounded

The American Society of Irrigation Consultants (ASIC) released its guidelines for earth grounding irrigation systems, offering a consistent code to a practice otherwise not standardized. ASIC Guidelines for Earth Grounding Electronic Equipment in Irrigation Systems represents several years of research and discussion on grounding control systems and is based on electrical engineering principals, noted Brian Vinchesi, president, ASIC, Chicago, Ill.

“The goals are to get a consistent grounding for irrigation controllers – everyone does it differently,” he identified. “The guideline is based on sound electrical engineering principles and is applicable to virtually all irrigation control and pump systems.”

While manufacturers require irrigation contractors to measure resistance, there are other aspects of lightning damage to consider when grounding a system, Vinchesi pointed out. This guide addresses and establishes a consistent, researched method for grounding.

Described as a “must-read” document for irrigation designers, distributors, contactors, manufacturers and others involved in irrigation, the guide can be downloaded from the ASIC Web site at www.asic.org. Or, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to the American Society of Irrigation Consultants, 221 N. LaSalle, Suite 3500, Chicago, Ill, 60601.

The author is Managing Editor – Special Projects for Lawn & Landscape magazine and can be reached at khampshire@gie.net.