Demonstration of how improper equipment grounding works

In this illustration you see a transformer supplying AC power to a motor in a dishwasher (or any other piece of electrical equipment).

a. One side of the transformer is connected solidly to the ground. The orange line indicates a thick copper wire connecting the transformer to the ground. This is called the "system" or "service" grounding.

b. The body of the dishwasher has also been grounded. We see the body of the dishwasher connected to the ground with a thick wire. This is called the "equipment" grounding. But notice that the grounding on the equipment side is damaged or broken.

c. The circuit breaker is open. No current is flowing. Green color usually denotes shutdown conditions. Press the NEXT button to close the breaker. Use the NEXT and BACK buttons at the top to navigate through this simulation.