What is the smallest cable allowed for grounding?

The smallest cable allowed for grounding under typical electrical codes is 2 AWG. This wire size ensures that the grounding system can safely carry the maximum fault current without creating excessive heat, which could lead to equipment failure or electrical fires. The choice of 2 AWG is also influenced by the need to maintain effective grounding for both safety and equipment protection, ensuring that any fault current is effectively channeled to the ground. In various electrical standards, including the National Electrical Code (NEC), grounding and bonding conductors have specific size requirements based on the size of the overcurrent protection device and the grounding system's application. Thus, the 2 AWG size serves as a reliable minimum for most typical grounding applications.