FAQs

Frequently asked questions about nVent ERICO.

• Do ERICO ground rods meet NEC grounding requirements?

  Yes. ERICO copper-bonded ground rods comply with NEC 250.50 and 250.52 requirements, including minimum 8-foot length and 5/8-inch diameter specifications. They are UL 467 listed, featuring a permanent copper-to-steel molecular bond for durability. If ground resistance exceeds 25 ohms, NEC requires a second rod, and ERICO designs help contractors meet or exceed these targets.

• Are Cadweld exothermic connections certified?

  Yes. ERICO Cadweld connections are UL 467 listed and IEEE 837 compliant for permanent grounding. Unlike mechanical connections, Cadweld creates a molecular bond that will not loosen, corrode, or increase in resistance over time. This ensures long-term safety and reduces maintenance for utilities, substations, and industrial plants.

• What lightning protection standards do ERICO systems meet?

  ERICO lightning protection systems comply with UL 96A and NFPA 780 in North America, IEC 62305 internationally, and French NFC 17-102 for Early Streamer Emission (ESE) systems. The System 2000 conventional design, System 1000 ESE, and System 3000 Collection Volume Method give engineers multiple options for code-compliant, validated protection.

• What are acceptable ground resistance values?

  The NEC allows up to 25 ohms for a single ground rod, but best practices recommend much lower values. Industrial and commercial facilities typically target 1–5 ohms, data centers ≤5 ohms, and substations under 1 ohm. ERICO systems, including ground rods and enhancement materials, are designed to achieve these levels for safety and reliability.

• How long does a Cadweld connection take to install?

  A Cadweld joint typically takes 2–4 minutes with the Cadweld Plus electronic ignition system. Even traditional molds average just 3–5 minutes per weld. This speed, combined with permanent results, makes Cadweld faster and more reliable than mechanical connections that require ongoing inspection and maintenance.

• What safety procedures are required when installing Cadweld connections?

  Installers must wear safety glasses and gloves, dry molds and conductors to prevent moisture reactions, and clear flammable materials from the work area. Although temperatures reach 2,500°F, no welding license is required. With basic training, contractors can perform Cadweld safely and consistently.

• When should Cadweld be chosen over mechanical connections?

  Cadweld is the preferred choice for permanent installations where safety and reliability are critical. Its molecular bond provides current-carrying capacity equal to or greater than the conductor and requires no maintenance. Mechanical connections may be suitable for temporary or frequently modified systems, but they loosen and corrode over time.

• What ERICO solutions are available for surge protection?

  ERICO surge protective devices (SPDs) are UL 1449 Edition 4 listed and meet IEEE C62 standards. They are available in Type 1 for service entrance, Type 2 for distribution panels, and Type 3 for point-of-use protection. These devices safeguard sensitive electronics, reduce downtime, and meet code-required protection levels.

• How do ERICO lightning protection systems protect data centers and telecom facilities?

  ERICO systems combine precision grounding, bonding busbars, and surge devices designed for sensitive electronics. Data centers benefit from ≤5 ohm ground resistance targets, transient-discriminating SPDs, and isolated down conductor options to reduce electromagnetic interference. Telecom sites use RF surge protectors and TIA/EIA 607-compliant grounding for single-point reliability.

• What is the service life of Cadweld versus mechanical connections?

  Cadweld connections last as long as the conductors (typically 40+ years) with no maintenance required. Mechanical connections often degrade within 10–20 years due to corrosion and thermal cycling, requiring costly replacement. Over a system’s lifetime, Cadweld delivers a far better return on investment.

• What warranty coverage does ERICO provide?

  ERICO provides a 5-year limited warranty on standard surge protection products and up to 10 years on premium SPD lines. Cadweld exothermic connections carry a lifetime performance warranty when properly installed. Chemical ground electrodes include a 30-year minimum service guarantee, reflecting ERICO’s confidence in long-term reliability. For full warranty terms across all nVent brands (including ERICO), visit the nVent warranty terms page.

• How do ERICO systems improve safety during electrical faults and lightning events?

  ERICO grounding systems provide low-impedance paths that quickly clear faults and reduce step and touch voltage risks. Cadweld ensures permanent connections that withstand repeated fault currents without loosening. Lightning protection integrates surge suppression and bonding, creating an equipotential system that protects both people and equipment.