2 GFGC_D00395_00_D_XXEN/05.2019
Ground Fault and Ground Continuity
Protection Panel GFGC
Protection Panel GFGC
Device features
• Universal voltage selection between 120
and 600 V
• Features ground fault detection, ground
integrity monitoring, and power inter-
ruption in case of alarm
• Predefined settings from factory
• 6 mA ground fault trip level
• Inverse time curve for interrupting cir-
cuit on a ground fault
• Adjustable ground continuity trip level
between 0.1 Ω…100 Ω (preset to 3 Ω)
• NEMA 12 painted steel enclosure
• External test and reset buttons
• External LED indication for power and
ground fault/ground integrity alarms
• Internal real-time indications of ground
fault current and ground integrity via
digital displays
Product description
The GFGC series of panels is an all-in-one solution for ground fault detection, ground
continuity monitoring, and power interruption in case of an alarm. Utilizing the latest in
technology, the GFGC panels can detect ground fault currents down to 6 mA without the
problems associated with high sensitivity nuissance tripping. The GFGC unit also verifies
ground connection integrity over a widely adjustable range. The universal voltage selection
allows use of this panel on systems from 120 VAC to 600 VAC. 30 A, 60 A, and 100 A units
are available.
Bender LifeGuard GFGC protection panels are Listed Enclosed Industrial Control Panels
certified to UL 508A.
Ground fault detection: The internal ground fault detector RCMA421H extends the capa-
bility of standard ground fault monitors to detect ground fault current in both AC and DC
systems, as well as through all stages of power conversion, such as with variable frequency
drives. The RCMA421H combines a trip level of 6 mA with protection against nuissance
tripping through operation on an inverse time curve (per UL943, the standard for personnel
protection), as well as exceptional noise filtering.
Open ground detection: The internal ground continuity monitor GM420 adds an additional
layer of protection by continuously monitoring the integrity of the ground conductor
line. A wide adjustable range from 0.1 Ω to 100 Ω ensures the proper level of protection
for nearly every application. In addition, the GM420 monitors for extraneous voltages be-
tween its connection points.
Applications
• Loading docks
• Fueling stations
• Systems requiring frequent user connections/disconnections
Function
The GFGC series of panels is designed to interrupt power to a circuit when either a ground
fault or an open ground is detected. The entire solution is contained inside a NEMA 4
painted steel enclosure. Light indicators as well test/reset buttons on the front of the
enclosure allow for functionality without requiring access inside the panel. Settings are
preset; only a simple internal wiring is required.
When a ground fault is detected, the contactor will trip the main circuit based on an inverse
time curve (per UL943) relative to the preset 6 mA value. The inverse time curve assists in
alleviating potential nuissance tripping issues.
If an open ground is detected, the same contactor will trip the main circuit. The ground
continuity monitor utilizes a ground connection, as well as a field pilot wire connection
on the exterior of the enclosure. This connection is required for proper operation. The
open ground monitor will not allow the contactor to remain pulled in without a proper
field connection.
Universal Voltage 120…600 V
for Grounded AC Systems
Device adjustability and preset values
Type
Adjustability
Preset defaults
Ground fault, trip value
6 mA, fixed
6 mA
Ground fault, time delay
Inverse time curve
Inverse time curve
Open ground, trip value
0.1…100
Ω
3
Ω
Open ground, time delay
0…99 s
0 s