DC traction power system grounding

The paper provides a review of the present practice of DC traction power system grounding methods employed in North America. An analysis of equipment grounding, system grounding and their relationships to achieve optimized equipment and personal safety is derived. Generic protective relay schemes commonly used in the DC equipment enclosure grounding are shown. Rail leakage stray current and personnel safety affected by the DC system grounding method are discussed. To enhance personnel/equipment safety, specific recommendations for the design of the DC traction power system grounding are included.