More accurate computation of touch and step voltage

Abstract

The paper describes a numerical algorithm for more accurate calculation of touch voltages and step voltages. The algorithm is based on the application of the Thevenin equivalent and on the application of a network model of human feet. The Thevenin equivalent is valid only for a given configuration of the grounding system, for a given location of human feet and for a given soil model. Therefore, it is recommended to use the algorithm for more accurate calculation of touch voltages and step voltages only at points on the soil surface that are of particular importance. The paper also considers the addition of a surface layer of gravel or asphalt to reduce excessively high step voltages and touch voltages.

Slavko Vujević

Professor Emeritus

An expert in electrical engineering, particularly known for his contributions to numerical modeling of electromagnetic phenomena, lightning protection, and grounding. Throughout his career, he was a key member of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Naval Architecture in Split, where he taught, mentored students, and actively participated in scientific research and international professional organizations.