# Short-circuiting or grounding device

Canonical URL: https://eloragrid.ai/protection-functions/57-short-circuiting-or-grounding-device
Publisher: Elora Grid
Updated: 2026-10-13
Lookup label: 57
Drawing use: SLD, Schematic
Reference families: IEEE / ANSI

Makes a defined short-circuit or earth connection for the purpose shown in the machine or apparatus scheme.

## What it represents

Makes a defined short-circuit or earth connection for the purpose shown in the machine or apparatus scheme.
In a drafting package, connect this reference to the conductors being shorted or earthed. The associated drawing should trace the operating mechanism and interlocks; the number identifies the role and does not specify the terminal arrangement, ratings or operating settings.

## How to read it

- Identify the conductors being shorted or earthed.
- Trace the operating mechanism and interlocks.

## Information to show or reference

- Label the conductors being shorted or earthed.
- Cross-reference the operating mechanism and interlocks.
- Identify the device tag, manual revision and logic drawing that define this implementation.

## Important distinction

The function number does not establish the making capacity or safe-use procedure of an earthing device.

## Facts

- ANSI / IEEE function number: 57
- Drawing context: The conductors being shorted or earthed
- Application scope: Protection or apparatus-control role; exact implementation is defined by the equipment documentation.

## Public references

- [ANSI device-number and suffix reference table](https://selinc.com/pt/products/tables/ansi/) — Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories. Public manufacturer number/name association. Drafting explanations are independently written.
- [IEEE C37.2-2022: power-system device function numbers](https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9984140) — IEEE. Normative device-number publication; exact edition wording and compliance require the licensed standard.

## Graphic scope

Independent original educational concept illustration by Elora Grid. Not a certified standards graphic or manufacturer footprint. Unitless; not to scale. Original artwork licence: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/. Publisher material is linked only.