Does running down conductors in PVC conduit eliminate the need for bonding connections?

Running down conductors in PVC conduit does not eliminate the need for bonding connections. Bonding is a crucial part of any lightning protection system because it ensures that all metal components are at the same electrical potential, reducing the risk of dangerous voltage differences that could lead to equipment damage or personal injury.

When conductors are installed in PVC conduit, they are still required to be bonded to other conductive parts of the structure, such as metal frames, roof structures, and any other conductive systems, to maintain a safe electrical environment. PVC itself is an insulating material and does not provide the necessary conductive properties that bonding connections are meant to address. Therefore, even with the added protection of conduit, the requirement for bonding remains to safely dissipate the energy in the event of a lightning strike.

Additionally, the bonding connections help to facilitate the effective operation of the lightning protection system by directing the electrical energy from a lightning strike safely to the ground, preventing potential hazards.