PEN
PEN conductor mark
A mark identifying a combined protective and neutral conductor, as used in TN-C sections of a supply.
IEC
IEC · MEN
Neutral-to-earth link
The single link bonding the neutral bar to the earth bar at the point where a TN-C-S supply splits into N and PE.
In plain English
What does Neutral-to-earth link mean?
The neutral-to-earth link connects the neutral and earth bars at one point, normally the main switchboard. In Australian and New Zealand practice it is the MEN link, and in other TN-C-S schemes it is the point where the incoming PEN is split. It provides the low impedance path that lets earth faults operate overcurrent devices.
A simple example
There must be only one such link in an installation section. A second neutral to earth bond downstream creates parallel neutral current in earthing conductors and can defeat residual current devices. The symbol does not show the conductor size of the link, which local rules set.
What the drawings help you do
Confirm there is only one neutral to earth link in the installation section. Check RCD-protected circuits downstream for unintended bonds. The neutral-to-earth link bonds N and PE in service; the earth test link is opened only to test the electrode.
This particular reference
The single link bonding the neutral bar to the earth bar at the point where a TN-C-S supply splits into N and PE. The neutral-to-earth link bonds N and PE in service; the earth test link is opened only to test the electrode.
- Rating
- A value stating the conditions for which equipment is specified.
- Schematic
- A drawing showing function and connections rather than physical appearance.
Read the source: Definition of standardised earthing schemes · Earthing connections
IEC · Neutral to earth bonding link
Independent IEC-context illustration; not certified IEC geometry.
Shown as an independently authored educational illustration. Use the cited publication and drawing legend to verify the required drafting form.
SLD / Schematic · MEN
What it represents
The neutral-to-earth link connects the neutral and earth bars at one point, normally the main switchboard. In Australian and New Zealand practice it is the MEN link, and in other TN-C-S schemes it is the point where the incoming PEN is split. It provides the low impedance path that lets earth faults operate overcurrent devices.
There must be only one such link in an installation section. A second neutral to earth bond downstream creates parallel neutral current in earthing conductors and can defeat residual current devices. The symbol does not show the conductor size of the link, which local rules set.
How to read it
- Confirm there is only one neutral to earth link in the installation section.
- Check RCD-protected circuits downstream for unintended bonds.
Information to show or reference
- Show the link at the main switchboard.
- State link conductor size.
- Avoid any downstream neutral to earth bond.
A distinction that matters
The neutral-to-earth link bonds N and PE in service; the earth test link is opened only to test the electrode.
Sources you can follow
These public references support the explanation and provide further detail. Their graphics and downloadable files remain with their publishers.
Definition of standardised earthing schemes
Public installation-guide definitions of TN-C-S schemes and PEN separation.
Earthing connections
Public installation-guide earthing connection elements.
About this graphic
This illustration was authored independently by Elora Grid to explain the concept. It is not reproduced from a customer drawing, an official standard graphic or a manufacturer CAD file. Its correspondence to an exact IEC or IEEE symbol identifier has not been certified.
SVG and DXF downloads contain this original artwork. DXF uses unscaled drawing units; a GA envelope supplies no product dimensions, clearances or fabrication information. Original artwork is available under CC BY 4.0. Third-party references retain their own terms.
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