3 phase to 3 phase dry autotransformer
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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
ndirectly 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