What is the purpose of bonding in electrical systems?

The purpose of bonding in electrical systems is to create a low-resistance path for fault currents. This is crucial for safety because it helps to ensure that in the event of a fault—such as a short circuit—there is a safe and effective route for the electrical current to flow. By providing this path, bonding minimizes the risk of electrical shock or fire and facilitates the operation of overcurrent protective devices, such as circuit breakers or fuses, allowing them to trip properly and disconnect the faulty circuit.

Furthermore, bonding helps maintain a stable voltage level across all components of the electrical system by equalizing the potential between conductive parts, which is essential for the proper functioning of the system. This is why bonding is a critical aspect of electrical safety and system integrity.