Demystifying Current Transformers (CTs): A Beginner’s Guide

Are you curious about the hidden mechanics behind electrical power measurement? Perhaps you've heard the term "current transformers" but aren't quite sure what they are or how they work. Fear not! In this beginner's guide, we'll unravel the mysteries surrounding current transformers (CTs), exploring their principles of operation, construction, and performance characteristics.

Understanding Current Transformers (CTs)

At its core, a current transformer is a specialised device that measures electric current in power systems. Unlike conventional transformers, and I don't mean the toy, CTs don't directly connect to the circuit being monitored. Instead, they work on the principle of electromagnetic induction to produce a secondary current proportional to the primary current flowing through the conductor they encircle.

How They Work

Imagine a miniature transformer tailored to scale down (transform) high currents into manageable levels for measurement and protection purposes. CTs typically consist of primary and secondary windings and protection(e.g. 2000A Primary to 1A Secondary typically shown as 2000/1A) wound around a magnetic core. As the primary current flows through the conductor encircled by the CT, it induces a corresponding secondary current in the secondary winding, maintaining a proportional relationship.

Exploring Construction

Delving deeper, let's peek inside the construction of a CT. The primary winding, typically a single turn or a few turns of a conductor, carries the current to be measured. Surrounding this primary winding is the secondary winding, which generates the scaled-down current output. The core, usually made of Grain-Oriented Silicon Steel (GOSS), enhances the magnetic coupling between the windings.

Performance Characteristics

CTs exhibit various performance characteristics critical to their effectiveness. Accuracy, burden, ratio, and saturation are key factors to consider. Accuracy refers to how closely the secondary current matches the primary current. Burden signifies the load imposed on the secondary winding by connected devices. The ratio determines the transformation ratio between primary and secondary currents. Saturation occurs when the core reaches its magnetic limits, affecting accuracy at high currents.

Why It Matters

Understanding CT fundamentals is essential for anyone involved in electrical engineering, power systems, or even those intrigued by the world of electricity. CTs play a vital role in power monitoring, equipment protection, and maintaining the stability of electrical systems. By grasping their basics, you embark on a journey toward mastering the intricacies of electrical power measurement.

Ready to Learn More?

This beginner's guide is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to current transformers. Stay tuned for upcoming posts where we'll delve into advanced topics and practical applications. Remember, every expert was once a beginner. Embrace your curiosity, and let's unravel the wonders of current transformers together!

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ITL expands MV & HV product range with new partnership

Glasgow, UK, October 2020, Power technology company Synaptec has announced a new partnership with Instrument Transformers Limited (ITL) which will open up new market opportunities for both companies.

The partnership has been formed in response to changing customer demand as the power industry adapts to the challenges presented by decarbonisation and decentralisation. By marketing Synaptec’s unique photonic sensing technology alongside ITL’s transformer & transducer products, ITL’s customers will now be able to access complete software and hardware solutions to meet these challenges.

The inclusion of Synaptec’s sensor passive technology within ITL’s current transformers & transducers brings new market opportunities for both companies; for Synaptec the medium voltage market and for ITL the high voltage market. Not limited to physical products an analytics software platform called Synthesis is also available to help system operators make informed decisions about the health of their network assets.

Saul Matthews, Commercial Director at Synaptec, said:

“This development of our existing relationship with ITL marks an important milestone for both businesses at a time when the power sector is undergoing the biggest transformation we’ll see in our lifetimes. ITL’s long-standing and trusted supplier status makes them the ideal partner to help their customers embrace new instrumentation technologies with confidence. Together we will help with automation of condition monitoring, improved wide-area protection schemes and optimised asset management costs"

ITL's Managing Director, Ray Porrelli, said:

“This is a unique opportunity to expand our scope of service to the MV and HV power sector in partnership with Synaptec who have developed highly sophisticated technology for use in the measurement, protection and control of plant and equipment. Using completely passive sensor technology married with traditional current and voltage transformers in a novel way allows informed visibility for effective and efficient control of a power network with time-critical protection and control, real-time monitoring and trend analysis for asset management. All of which helps minimise service interruptions extends the life of an asset and provides a higher return on investment.”

Typically, protection transformers are more difficult to design and this bespoke element is where the synergy with Synaptec lies - both companies build their systems according to customer requirements and for ITL the inclusion of Synaptec’s technology opens up the opportunity for growth into a new market.

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For more information on the cutting edge technology check our distrubuted sensors for photonic protection and monitoring technology web pages.