What does "neutral grounding" refer to in a 3-phase system?

The term "neutral grounding" specifically refers to the process of connecting the neutral point of a power system to the ground. This practice is vital for maintaining system stability and safety in a three-phase electrical system. Grounding the neutral provides a reference point for the electrical system's voltage levels and helps to prevent overvoltages. It effectively limits the voltage to ground during fault conditions, thus protecting equipment and ensuring the safety of personnel by reducing the risk of electric shock.

By grounding the neutral, any fault or short circuit can quickly return safety to the system, allowing protective devices to operate effectively. This setup reduces the risk of line-to-ground faults propagating through the system, which can lead to catastrophic failures or hazardous conditions. The main purpose is to provide a safe path for fault currents while maintaining overall system stability and integrity.

The other options do not accurately describe neutral grounding; they either suggest adding infrastructure or functionalities outside the context of grounding, or they imply isolation in a manner that contradicts the purpose of grounding.