How does higher measured ground resistance affect overcurrent protective devices?

Higher measured ground resistance can hinder the operation of overcurrent protective devices because these devices rely on a low-resistance ground for effective fault detection and clearing. When ground resistance is too high, it can impede the flow of fault current. This situation can lead to delayed or ineffective operation of the protective devices, which are designed to trip and isolate a fault in a timely manner. If the ground resistance is high, the fault current may not reach the necessary levels to trigger the protective devices, reducing their ability to protect equipment and maintain safety. Therefore, proper grounding is essential for ensuring that overcurrent protective devices function correctly and respond to electrical faults as intended.