Which statement best describes the bending and routing requirements for grounding conductor runs?

• A. Minimum bending radius 8 inches and no less than 90 degrees, with short, straight, smooth runs and the fewest bends
• B. Minimum bending radius 6 inches and 45-degree bends are allowed
• C. Bends must be rounded to 180 degrees
• D. Bends are not allowed, runs must be perfectly straight

Answer: (A)

Grounding conductor runs must be routed in a way that preserves mechanical integrity and a solid electrical path. Using a generous bend radius plus clear turns helps prevent insulation damage, conductor fatigue, and impedance changes at bends, while keeping the path simple and reliable. The statement with an eight-inch minimum bending radius and bends no less than 90 degrees promotes durable, low-stress turns and minimizes the number of bends, resulting in short, smooth runs that are easier to install and less prone to damage. This aligns with practical grounding practice: you navigate around obstacles with defined turns rather than forcing tight, frequent kinks.

Options that allow a smaller radius or gentler angles would increase bending stress and the chance of damage or impedance variation; requiring a 180-degree bend would create awkward, impractical turns; and forbidding any bends would make routing around equipment or structural elements impossible.