Same building subpanel fed via EMT - separate ground required?

[OneOfEm]

I'm going to be adding a subpanel to my shop in the opposite corner from the "main" subpanel. It will be fed through EMT. Do I need to include a separate ground, or will the EMT suffice like it does for outlets and fixtures?

 

[Terry D]

I don't know if it is code to use the conduit as the equipment ground for a sub panel. If it is, you would have to ensure that it is grounded by using bonding bushings or bonding locknuts. It is common practice these days to install a actual equipment grounding conductor. I would highly suggest doing that. Or another option would be installing a SER type cable instead of EMT

 

[Norcal]

EMT is a recognized grounding conductor by the NEC so it is your choice to use it or not. The bonding bushings would only be required in service entrance applications, or voltages over 240.

 

[sparky 1971]

It will be fine. If you use the combination knockouts and don't use the largest size, bonding bushings will have to be used. At least that's what we have to do here. I am not going to take the time to look it up.

 

[OneOfEm]

It will save a bit on wire and conduit size (100' between panels), so I'll stick with what I've been doing.

If I'd planned ahead I'd have run PVC corner to corner underground, but that's the cost of using amateurs (i.e. doing it myself).

Thanks!

 

[wyliesdiesels]

I don't know if it is code to use the conduit as the equipment ground for a sub panel. If it is, you would have to ensure that it is grounded by using bonding bushings or bonding locknuts. It is common practice these days to install a actual equipment grounding conductor. I would highly suggest doing that. Or another option would be installing a SER type cable instead of EMT

Since EMT is listed as a suitable EGC in the NEC and there is no prohibition for specific applications like a subpanel, it most definitey can be used for a subpanel. Its done all the time.

 

[Terry D]

Since EMT is listed as a suitable EGC in the NEC and there is no prohibition for specific applications like a subpanel, it most definitey can be used for a subpanel. Its done all the time.

Thats good to know, we pull grounds here on everything. Thanks for explaining

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[sberry]

Just out of curiosity,,, what kind of building?

 

[OneOfEm]

Post frame, metal sided. Finished interior with exposed EMT.

 

[sberry]

Pipe is somewhat like any connection, a little care and good design make it work well. I like set screws and when its all fit and done come along and snug the screw as a final. Takes a lot to pull it apart.
According to guru types know more than me the pipe is the ideal ground. Pipe around the conductors. Not sure how much size and ratio to wire size plays in to it, some of the tech stuff, maybe westom or someone knows,,, how proximity effects it all??? Nothing is really as good as piped wire. Wire in steel conduit is the benchmark for safety.