3 phase to 3 phase dry autotransformer

both the input side and output side of a 3-phase transformer system can be grounded, but it depends on the transformer type and how the system is designed.

For a typical 3-phase 240V → 380V transformer:

  • The transformer frame/enclosure should be grounded.
  • The input side usually has an equipment grounding conductor.
  • The output side can also have a grounded point (usually neutral or one corner), depending on configuration.

Equipment Ground

Used for safety:

  • transformer case
  • enclosure
  • conduit
  • machine chassis

This SHOULD be grounded.

Grounded Conductor / Neutral

One point in the electrical system intentionally bonded to ground.

  • Input: 3-phase → terminals A B C
  • Ground: PE
  • Output: 3-phase + neutral → terminals a b c n
208V Supply          Transformer Input
----------- -----------------
L1 -----------------> A
L2 -----------------> B
L3 -----------------> C
Ground --------------> PE

Important:

  • Do NOT connect neutral to A/B/C.
  • PE is protective earth/ground only.

OUTPUT SIDE (380V 3-phase)

Transformer outputs:


Transformer Output      Machine
------------------ -------
a --------------------> L1
b --------------------> L2
c --------------------> L3
n --------------------> Neutral (if needed)



208V Supply Side              Transformer
---------------- -----------
L1 -------------------------> A
L2 -------------------------> B
L3 -------------------------> C
Ground (EGC) ---------------> PE

The PE terminal means:

  • Protective Earth
  • equipment grounding connection
  • transformer frame/chassis grounding point

This ground wire:

  • bonds the metal case
  • improves safety
  • allows breakers to trip during faults

Typical safe setup

Input:

  • L1/L2/L3 → A/B/C
  • Ground → PE

Output:

  • a/b/c → machine phases
  • n → machine neutral if needed
  • machine chassis → PE/ground

 

One caution

Do NOT connect:

  • 208V neutral to PE unless system design/code requires it
  • output n directly to PE randomly without understanding grounding method

Improper neutral-ground bonding can:

  • create circulating current
  • trip breakers/GFCIs
  • create shock hazards

This is part of:

  • Protective earth
  • Neutral conductor
  • Equipment grounding conductor


 

 

 

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