In rocky earth, at what maximum angle can grounding rods be driven?

When driving grounding rods into rocky earth, the maximum angle is commonly accepted to be 45 degrees. Grounding rods are designed to provide an effective electrical connection to the ground, and driving them at a steep angle can make achieving a solid connection more difficult.

Driving the rod at a 45-degree angle allows for a better compromise between depth and lateral resistance. At this angle, the rod can still make effective contact with the surrounding soil, while also being easier to drive into rocky or hard materials that may obstruct deeper penetration. Furthermore, 45 degrees often enhances the rod's ability to dissipate electrical surges into the ground effectively.

Angles greater than 45 degrees may encounter more difficulties due to the risk of being impeded by rocks and the reduced contact area with the soil, which can lead to increased resistance. While 30 degrees could potentially work, it does not leverage the effective depth and setting that 45 degrees can provide. Overall, using a 45-degree angle strikes the best balance for grounding, ensuring safety and functionality in grounding systems.