What is the intentional grounding of all metal noncurrent carrying parts of the electrical system called?

The intentional grounding of all metal noncurrent-carrying parts of an electrical system is known as equipment grounding. This grounding method is crucial for safety as it helps prevent electrical shock hazards by providing a path for fault currents to flow safely to the ground. This ensures that if there is a fault, such as a short circuit, the excess current has a defined path to dissipate, reducing the risk of electric shock or fire.

Equipment grounding is distinct from other types of grounding such as safety grounding, which might refer more broadly to measures taken to protect individuals from electrical hazards. Electrical grounding generally refers to any process of connecting electrical systems to the earth for protection and safety but does not specifically emphasize the noncurrent-carrying parts. Chassis grounding, on the other hand, is often used in specific contexts like automotive applications, focusing more on the grounding of the vehicle's metal frame rather than the entire system's noncurrent-carrying components.

Overall, equipment grounding is a critical aspect of electrical safety standards, ensuring that all metal parts that may become energized due to faults are securely connected to the ground, providing an essential layer of safety in electrical installations.