What is the largest grounding electrode conductor required for a separately derived system connected only to a rod, pipe, or plate electrode?

The largest grounding electrode conductor required for a separately derived system connected only to a rod, pipe, or plate electrode is 6 AWG copper. This size is specified based on the requirement to properly ground the system to mitigate electrical hazards, ensuring safety and compliance with electrical codes.

In general, the conductor sizing is determined based on factors such as the type of electrode used, the size of the service conductors, and specific safety standards. For copper conductors, a 6 AWG size is adequate to handle the fault current and maintain the integrity of the grounding system when connected to a rod, pipe, or plate electrode. It provides a sufficient cross-sectional area to effectively dissipate fault currents safely into the ground, minimizing the risk of shock and ensuring effective operation of overcurrent protection devices.

Using larger or smaller gauges, like 4 AWG or 2 AWG, may not be necessary in this specific context and may be reserved for different systems or configurations requiring more robust grounding solutions. 8 AWG aluminum would be undersized for the application compared to the requirements set forth for copper conductors.