CURRENT TRANSFORMER
A current transformer (CT) is an instrument transformer designed to reduce high alternating
currents (AC) to a lower, measurable value. It's crucial for safely measuring and monitoring high
currents in electrical systems, particularly in power distribution and industrial settings.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Working Principle:
A CT consists of a primary winding (carrying the high current to be measured) and a
secondary winding (connected to measuring instruments).
The primary current induces a magnetic field in the core, which in turn induces a
proportional current in the secondary winding.
The secondary current is significantly smaller than the primary current, making it safe and
practical to measure with standard ammeters and other devices.
The ratio of primary to secondary current is determined by the turns ratio of the windings.
Key Functions:
Current Measurement: CTs allow for the safe and accurate measurement of high currents in
power systems.
Protection: They are used in protective relays to detect overcurrent’s and other faults,
triggering protective actions.
Control: CTs can also be used in control systems to monitor and regulate current flow.
Construction:
Primary winding: Connected in series with the circuit carrying the current to be measured,
often a single turn or a few turns of thick wire.
Secondary winding: Has a large number of turns of fine wire, connected to measuring
instruments or relays.
Magnetic core: Made of laminated silicon steel or other high-permeability materials, which
channels the magnetic flux produced by the primary winding to the secondary winding.
Insulation: Provides electrical isolation between the windings and from the core, crucial for
safety and preventing insulation breakdown, especially in high-voltage applications.
Types:
There are various types of current transformers, categorized based on factors like:
Application: Metering CTs for measurement and billing, and protection CTs for use with
relays.
Construction: Bar-type, wound-type, toroidal (ring) core, and split-core, each with specific
advantages and applications.
Insulation: Dry-type, cast insulated, oil-immersed, or gas-insulated.
Installation: Through-type, pillar-type, bushing, and busbar type.
Applications:
Electrical Substations: CTs are essential components in electrical substations for measuring
and protecting high-voltage and high-current circuits.
Power Distribution: They are used in power distribution networks to monitor current flow
and ensure efficient power delivery.
Industrial Machinery: CTs are used in industrial settings to monitor and control the current
flow to various machines and equipment.
Metering: They are used in electricity metering applications to accurately measure energy
consumption.
Advantages:
Safety: CTs allow for the safe measurement of high currents without the need to directly
connect measuring instruments to high-voltage circuits.
Accuracy: They provide accurate current measurements, which is crucial for proper system
operation and protection.
Versatility: CTs can be used in a wide range of applications, from metering to protection and
control.
Limitations:
Limited Current Range: CTs have a limited current range, and may not be suitable for
measuring extremely high or low currents.
Accuracy Degradation: External factors like temperature, electromagnetic interference, and
mechanical stress can affect the accuracy of CTs.
Saturation: At very high current levels, CTs can saturate, causing inaccurate measurements.
Importance:
Current transformers are crucial for the efficient, safe, and reliable operation of electrical systems.
They enable accurate current measurement, facilitate the operation of protective devices, and
ensure the safety of personnel by isolating measuring equipment from high-voltage circuits.
