Neutral return currents through the ground[edit]

In three phase four-wire ("wye") electrical power systems, when the load on the phases is not
exactly equal, there is some current in the neutral conductor. Because both the primary and
secondary of the distribution transformer are grounded, and the primary ground is grounded at
more than one point, the earth forms a parallel return path for the neutral current, allowing part of
the neutral current to continuously flow through the earth. This arrangement is partially
responsible for stray voltage. [10]
Stray voltage is a result of the design of a 4 wire distribution system and as such has existed as
long as such systems have been used. Stray voltage became a problem for the dairy industry
some time after electric milking machines were introduced, and large numbers of animals were
simultaneously in contact with metal objects grounded to the electric distribution system and the
earth. Numerous studies document the causes,[11] physiological effects,[12] and prevention,[13][14] of
stray voltage in the farm environment. Today, stray voltage on farms is regulated by state
governments and controlled by the design of equipotential planes in areas where livestock eat,
drink or give milk. Commercially available neutral isolators also prevent elevated potentials on
the utility system neutral from raising the voltage of farm neutral or ground wires.

Electrolysis and corrosion[edit]