Rod-type grounding electrodes of stainless steel must have a diameter of at least which of the following?

Rod-type grounding electrodes that are made of stainless steel must have a diameter of at least 5/8 inch to ensure adequate conductivity and mechanical strength. This specification aligns with the National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements, which aim to provide safe and effective grounding systems.

A grounding electrode must be robust enough to withstand environmental factors, such as corrosion, physical stress, and thermal expansion. The 5/8 inch diameter strikes a balance between sufficient surface area to ensure proper electrical grounding and practicality for installation. Using a rod smaller than this could compromise its performance and reliability, while larger diameters could result in unnecessary material costs and installation complexities. Thus, the requirement for a minimum diameter of 5/8 inch for stainless steel grounding rods ensures both effectiveness and compliance with industry standards.