What are the primary purposes of a grounded neutral conductor in a grounded service?

The primary purposes of a grounded neutral conductor in a grounded service are indeed to carry maximum unbalanced return neutral load and to serve as an effective ground-fault current path.

The grounded neutral conductor is essential in the functioning of an electrical system, as it ensures that any unbalanced load between the phase conductors can safely return through the neutral wire. This capability is particularly crucial in typical residential wiring, where appliances and devices may not draw equal power, leading to an unbalanced load scenario.

Additionally, the grounded neutral provides a safe path for fault currents, which is vital for protecting electrical systems from faults such as short circuits. In the event of a ground fault, the neutral conductor allows the fault current to return to the source and facilitate tripping the circuit protection devices, such as circuit breakers. This action greatly enhances safety by reducing the risk of electric shock or fire hazards.

Understanding these functions highlights the importance of a properly grounded neutral in maintaining safe and efficient electrical operations.