An EGC (Equipment Grounding Conductor) does not burn up in a ground fault scenario because it is designed to carry fault current safely back to the source without overheating.Here's why

1. Low Resistance Path:

The EGC provides a low-resistance path for the fault current to flow back to the source. This means that the current will take the path of least resistance, which is through the EGC, instead of through other conductors or equipment.2. Adequate Ampacity

EGCs are sized according to the maximum fault current they may need to carry. In your example, an 8 AWG copper wire can safely carry up to 680 A continuously. Since the fault current of 583 A is below this limit, the wire will not overheat or burn up.

3. Short Circuit Current Rating

EGCs are also rated for short-circuit currents. The short-circuit current rating of an EGC is typically much higher than the continuous ampacity, ensuring that it can withstand the high-magnitude currents that occur during a fault.

4. Circuit Protection: In addition to the ampacity and short-circuit current rating, EGCs are also protected by circuit breakers or fuses. These devices will trip or blow when the fault current exceeds a predetermined level, further preventing the EGC from overheating.Therefore, an EGC is intentionally designed to carry fault currents without burning up, ensuring that the fault current is safely diverted back to the source, minimizing the risk of fire or damage to equipment and personnel. Flag for review