What must grounding jumpers used on a transmission or distribution circuit be capable of?

Grounding jumpers used on transmission or distribution circuits are vital for ensuring safety during maintenance and emergency work. The primary function of these jumpers is to provide a low-resistance path to ground for fault currents. Therefore, they must be capable of conducting the maximum fault current that can occur within the system for the duration it takes to clear the fault. This ensures that the system is effectively grounded, minimizing the risk of electric shock and equipment damage.

In situations where a fault occurs, the quick and efficient dissipation of fault current is essential for both safety and system protection. If the grounding jumper is unable to conduct the required fault current, it could lead to inadequate grounding, increased risk of electrocution, equipment failure, and further complications in restoring services.

This focus on conducting maximum fault currents sets grounding jumpers apart from other components, which may be evaluated based on their ability to resist environmental factors, voltage levels, or insulation properties, but these factors do not address the critical need for effective current handling in fault conditions. Thus, conducting the maximum fault current is the paramount requirement for grounding jumpers in this context.