Conductor Bars are electrical components used for the distribution of electrical power within various systems and applications. They transmit an electrical current from a power source to various loads or equipment, providing a low-resistance path for the flow of electricity, which helps minimize energy loss and voltage drop. Conductor Bars are used in a wide range of industries such as manufacturing and industrial, mining, transportation, aerospace and chemicals.

Conductor Bars are an essential piece of equipment in many industries; however, many business owners may not realize that their 3-Bar electrification systems are outdated and non-compliant with newer NEC safety standards. In 2005, the revised edition of ANSI/NFPA 70 National Electric Code for grounding requirements changed and added the requirement for overhead cranes to have a grounded power bar in place of the metal-to-metal connection provided by the wheels and track. As a result, cranes that now lack a grounded power bar are non-compliant with the newer NEC safety standards, with OSHA stating that the crane or hoist ground be permanent, continuous and effective.

Article 610, Cranes and Hoists, Section 610.61 Grounding:

“The trolley frame and bridge frame shall not be considered electrically grounded through the bridge and trolley wheels and its respective tracks. A separate bonding conductor shall be provided.” 

The MTN Industrial team have noted that some crane owners they speak to make the mistake of thinking that because their crane was produced prior to the new safety regulations, they don’t need to upgrade their crane. However, the newer NEC standards do in fact apply to all forms of electrified lifting equipment. Electrified lifting equipment without an adequate ground bar can expose workers to fatal electrical shocks when touching the hook or other conductive parts of the crane or hoist. This can leave businesses liable if an accident were to occur without an adequate ground bar installed.

In the past, the NEC deemed contact between metal wheels and the steel beam as an adequate method for grounding. However, the 2005 revision has rendered this approach unacceptable. While leaving the bridge rail unpainted can create a ground from the steel hoist wheels to the steel bridge rail, this electrical pathway may extend to the steel bridge wheels and the runway. In theory, this could ground the crane, but several factors may hinder effective grounding, potentially resulting in electrocution. Issues such as deteriorated bearings, corrosion, and the presence of dirt on the rails can all disrupt the connection between the metal hoist trolley wheels and the crane, preventing proper grounding.

Therefore, for those with an older crane system that lacks a Ground Bar, it is imperative that they are retrofitted to include such a part to stay compliant. In many cases, upgrading older cranes can be just as costly as acquiring a new overhead crane system with newer specifications and features. This can understandably lead to confusion among crane owners as to whether upgrading their crane system or purchasing a replacement is the most cost-effective endeavor.

At MTN Industrial, we are readily available to clear up some of that confusion and answer any queries you may have. Contact us today at (888) 516-0737 or email us at info@mtnind.com.

Why Your Business Needs a New Conductor Bar to Remain Compliant