Both flat strip and round wire can carry earth-fault current, but they are not interchangeable. A flat strip has more surface area for the same cross-section, so it sheds heat and high-frequency surge current better - which is why grids and lightning down-conductors use strip. Round wire or cable is chosen where routing is tight or the run is flexible.
How they compare
| Factor | Strip vs wire |
|---|---|
| Surface area | Strip higher - better heat and surge dissipation |
| Earth grids and mats | Strip preferred |
| Lightning down-conductor | Strip (or tape) preferred |
| Tight routing / flexibility | Wire or cable easier |
Which to choose
Use strip for buried grids, equipment bonding bars and lightning conductors; use insulated earth cable for long flexible runs and panel tails. Size either to the fault current per IS 3043.
