Confusion between these terms can, and does, produce lethal outcomes. Article 100 of the NEC clearly distinguishes between them:
- Neutral: A conductor that is intended to carry current under normal conditions and is connected to the neutral point. It is typically, but not necessarily, the grounded conductor.
- Ground: The earth.
- Bond: A connection that establishes electrical continuity and connectivity.
Metallic raceway is not intended to carry current under normal conditions. So, for example, using IMC as the return path for 277V lighting is a code violation. That IMC should contain the neutral wire of each lighting circuit run inside it, not be used as a substitute for the neutral.
One function of metallic raceway is to bond equipment, putting it at the same potential. You do not want that potential to be 277V.
Another mistake is grounding where you should bond. If you are creating a terminus for lightning protection, then ground. In all other cases, you want a bonding connection. Grounding won’t prevent touch potential hazard, but bonding will.
Avoid lethal outcomes by understanding the role of each type of connection.
