DC Current Transducer Products: New, Upgraded Hall Effect Technology

Any type of current flow creates a proportional magnetic field, and DC current transducer products measure this generated field using Hall Effect technology. Hall Effect is defined as the generation of a magnetic field perpendicular to the current and a voltage difference across an electrical conductor transverse to an electrical current in the conductor.

This article discusses how Hall Effect devices work, their limitations, and how they can be improved.Understanding Hall Effect devicesA Hall Effect-based transducer, such as the one contained in a RōCoil TCA-5-HV-KIT, is generally composed of a signal conditioning circuitry, a core, and a Hall Effect device.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/dc-current-transducer-products-new-upgraded-hall-effect-technology/

Aim Dynamics Introduces Its New Split Core Current Transformer eGauge

Are you looking for a split core current transformer with excellent performance? Aim Dynamics is introducing the eGauge Meter 3-Rope CT Kit 1% Accuracy, a power monitoring meter which measures electric power, and depending on how many registers you select, is capable of recording up to 30 years’ worth of data within its internal memory. The eGauge is outfitted with a solid state memory, data logger, and a webserver with all three as part of a single device. It contains three voltage input channels which allows it to monitor single-phase systems and three-phase systems.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/aim-dynamics-introduces-its-new-split-core-current-transformer-egauge/

Flexible Current Transformer Seller Offers Power TakeOff Cellular Kit

Flexible current transformer distributor Aim Dynamics is proud to announce that it now offers Power TakeOff Cellular Kit Monthly Services to help its customers monitor energy consumption more systematically. Aim Dynamics has always strived to deliver great value to its consumers by supplying them with supreme quality materials to aid in the management of efficient energy consumption. One of the most recent additions to its array of power monitoring products is the Power TakeOff Cellular Kit + Service.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/flexible-current-transformer-seller-offers-power-takeoff-cellular-kit/

AC and DC Current Sensor Distributor Now Offers The RōCoil TCA-5-HV-KIT

As a split core transformer, flexible transformer, and AC and DC current sensor distributor, Aim Dynamics is always excited to carry the latest power monitoring equipment on the market. That’s why the company is proud to announce the addition of the 5A Rope Kit with High Voltage Power Transformer - RōCoil TCA-5-HV-KIT to its product line which will allow users to take advantage of the broad current range and easy installation offered by the RoCoil Flex Probe CTs. As a three-channel integrating transconductance amplifier (TCA), the RoCoil TCA-5 converts the 131mV/1000A electrical output signal from the RoCoil current sensor to a 5 amp AC current, thus emulating a traditional current sensing transformer. It is factory-calibrated to work with DENT RoCoil CTs (131mV/1000A).
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/ac-and-dc-current-sensor-distributor-now-offers-the-rocoil-tca-5-hv-kit/

Analog vs. Digital Sensors

There are many different types of sensors and transducers, but in general, all of them can be classified into two basic types: analog and digital. So which one is more useful to your needs? Find out below.

Analog sensors

Analog sensors create continuous and generally proportional output signal to that of the quantity being measured. Physical quantities such as Strain, Temperature, Pressure, Displacement and Strain, among others, are all analog because of their continuous characteristic. Analog sensors share this continuous nature, producing signals that change smoothly over time.

Real-Time Data from a Current Transformer

Current transformers can be hooked up to an ammeter, although the resulting amperage reading only paints a partial picture of an office or factory's energy consumption. A gauge system brings out the transformer’s full potential by providing real-time data that includes amperage, voltage, frequency, power factor, and more. Access the data on the computer, and you'll get a bird's-eye-view of your power consumption patterns.

A gauge system is a mother unit that can support a number of conductors. It gathers data from all connected units and, depending on the model, may upload the data on the Internet through an Ethernet connection. This enables the user to access the information, whether onsite or offsite, and make quick decisions.

Flexible Current Transformers: Better Energy Efficiency with eGauge

Energy monitoring can lead to energy savings. This, in turn, can lead to benefits for the bottom line and the environment. Flexible current transformer suppliers like Aim Dynamics can provide you with the energy monitoring tools you need to track your electricity consumption. One of the company’s most revered products, the eGauge, can help you identify, plan, and execute energy-saving measures in a systematic way. What is the eGauge? The eGauge is a stand-alone product that can reduce the power usage of a commercial or residential property. It can be integrated with certain systems if you want to take your energy savings to the next level.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/flexible-current-transformers-better-energy-efficiency-with-egauge/

The Right AC or DC Current Sensor for Measuring Power Consumption

A current of five amps is common in power adaptors for laptops, which also usually operate at 12 volts. Thanks to digital metering made possible by modern AC and DC current sensor technology, charges have become smaller and less expensive. Split-core sensors operate around the milliamp range, as opposed to solid-core ones. Split-core sensors are ideal for measuring ACs, given their nature of changing currents often. Despite operating at a measly 333 mV, they’re rated to measure inputs of up to 1,500 amps depending on the diameter of the measuring field. The good thing about this is that, at such low voltages, there’s a low risk of shock or arcing.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/the-right-ac-or-dc-current-sensor-for-measuring-power-consumption/

The 4-20 mA Current Loop Explained: How a DC Current Transformer Helps

A simple 4-20 mA current loop consists of four parts: a DC power supply, a two-wire transmitter, a receiver resistor, and RWire. Unlike alternating current (AC), which changes all the time, direct current (DC) is consistent. Unless the loop uses a three-wire DC current transformer, the system may not recognize changes in current flow while in AC power. The three-wire variant can hold its own in a voltage drop. The amount of voltage lost is relative to the length of the wire; the longer the wire, the more voltage lost. According to the National Electric Code, voltage drops must be no more than 3 percent of circuit voltage from the breaker box. Otherwise, operators risk pushing an appliance to its breaking point due to lack of current.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/the-4-20-ma-current-loop-explained-how-a-dc-current-transformer-helps/

Split Core Current Transformer Distributor Also Offers eGauge Meters

Aim Dynamics, a split core current transformer distributor, proudly offers the revolutionary eGauge meters. With the help of this device, monitoring power usage has become easier than ever. Unlike traditional metering products, the eGauge system utilizes the power of the Internet to let users monitor systems no matter where they are as long as they have a device that has online capabilities. The system has three parts: the eGauge main unit, the current transformers, and a home adaptor.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/split-core-current-transformer-distributor-also-offers-egauge-meters/

Split-Core Transformers: Common Features

Modern split-core transformers are easily installed, easily connectable devices that can be attached to virtually all types of wiring terminals. Preferably, a split-core transformer is attached to electrical wiring by snapping the device around the conductor. High quality split-core transformers—such as those produced by Magnelab—have the highest standards in terms of interleaving joints and self-locking mechanism. Typically, these products have a rated accuracy of +- 1 percent between 10 and 130 percent of their graded input.

Best Practices: Taking Measurements with a Sound DC Current Sensor

Whether your equipment just finished a measurement earlier this morning or it is fresh out of the box, always assume that there is something wrong with it. Carefully inspect your equipment for any loose wires, worn-down insulation, etc. As they say, it’s better to be safe than sorry. In the event that you do find something wrong with your equipment, you’ll need to buy a replacement. Whether you need new DC or replacement AC current sensors, or any other type of equipment, make sure you only deal with reputable suppliers like Aim Dynamics. A trusted supplier will have a vast selection of equipment that is sure to suit your needs.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/best-practices-taking-measurements-with-a-sound-dc-current-sensor/

Power Line Repair Safety Tips: Using a Reliable DC Current Transformer

Before any job, test your equipment. Malfunctioning electrical equipment is a massive electrocution risk. With that in mind, be sure to inspect your equipment carefully for peeling wiring and other forms of damage, particularly equipment you use often such as your reliable DC current transformer. If you feel a tingling sensation when working with a piece of equipment, stop working immediately and ask for replacement equipment. In the event that you need to purchase a new DC voltage transducer or any other piece of equipment, be sure to deal only with reputable suppliers like Aim Dynamics. This assures you that you’ll be receiving both quality equipment and quality service.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/power-line-repair-safety-tips-using-a-reliable-dc-current-transformer/

Adapting a New Flexible Current Transformer in a Data Center’s Grid

A data center is one of the prime assets a medium or large company may have. However, something’s amiss when part of its machinery breaks down and compromises your information as a result. Part of the power solutions may include erecting a new flexible current transformer set-up with support from a company such as Aim Dynamics. Flexible current transformers or FCT are fundamentally the same as split-core current transformers in the sense that they do not have to physically tap directly inside a circuit. The most prominent feature of an FCT is that the Rogowski coils are soft – making them easier to install in areas with little room – and they are wrapped in colored linings.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/adapting-a-new-flexible-current-transformer-in-a-data-centers-grid/

Using a Quality Split Core Current Transformer for Submetering Work

In an age of environmental consciousness, it’s easy to overlook the consequences of leaving the power on all day even when nobody’s home. As such, you must act to curtail the unnecessary power usage and figure out where savings are possible. Installing a sturdy split core current transformer (CT) like those sold by Aim Dynamics can be a step in that direction. Split-core CTs are small devices designed to measure the current flow of a primary conduit without having to rewire. The device’s centerpiece is a magnetic core wrapped with thousands of secondary windings. The output is typically a low current or low voltage. Mounting harnesses are sometimes set up after attaching the transformer over the conducting wire. However, most units work perfectly fine by simply dangling from the primary conductor.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/using-a-quality-split-core-current-transformer-for-submetering-work/

An Energy-Efficient Future with Split-Core CTs

Split-core current transformers (CTs), among other things, are used to conduct electrical load surveys. Offices and factories periodically ask for a thorough assessment of their energy consumption and ways to get more for less. Such an assessment answers the question: "How much energy does it take the load to convert electricity to light, heat, or motion?"

Current Sensing in the Manufacturing Industry

Electric motors are used extensively in the manufacturing industry. Whether AC- or DC-powered, electric motors are used to drive conveyors, fans, pumps, and a broad range of specialized equipment designed to speed up and automate specific manufacturing tasks. Many types of motors exist for many different applications, but they all have one thing in common: They all require electrical current to generate the magnetic fields necessary for them to function.

The need to monitor electric current

When an electrical motor’s current is monitored, useful information can be obtained regarding the status of the motor and the equipment it runs. Consequently, this information can be used to protect both the motor and the equipment connected to it.

A War of Currents

When Nikola Tesla created alternating current (AC) in the late 1800s, the world didn't realize that electricity was about to change for the better. In fact, businessmen like Thomas Edison, a fellow inventor, tried to discredit Tesla for the discovery since he invested heavily in direct current (DC). In fact, many of Tesla's inventions conflicted with business interests.

What exactly was in AC that gave DC a run for its money? AC traveled in a wave-like motion, moving power more efficiently than DC’s straight-line motion. This innovation meant electricity can be distributed to long distances using low voltages, which is much safer. Tesla demonstrated the safety of AC by using his own body as a conduit to light up lamps.

Different Types of Current Transformer

Current transformers are used to protect current measuring devices from dangerous voltages running through transmission lines. They come in a variety of shapes, forms, and sizes to suit various levels of voltage and wire diameters. Here are three major types of current transformer available on the market today.

Solid Core

This is the most common yet least recommended type of current transformer consisting of a secondary coil wound on a round-shaped core and connected to the ammeter. The reason it’s not recommended is that its installation requires cutting the transmission line just to insert the device, which means additional cost and interruption in the service due to the need for opening the circuit.

Why Is Current Transformer Important?

Electrocution is one of the leading causes of death among construction workers, killing an average of 143 personnel each year. Whether it’s overhead or underground wires you are working with, or are near your working area, you are at risk of electrocution. Unfortunately, like humans and animals, high voltage electricity is also dangerous to devices, for instance, a television breaking down after receiving more voltage than normal.

One particular device that can easily break down when applied with high voltage electricity is the ammeter, an instrument used to measure electric current. This device allows you to know your regular energy consumption. The problem with ammeter is that despite its function as a current measuring device, its electronics are too sensitive and can burn quickly when subjected to high voltage electricity.

New Equipment to Monitor DC Current Sensor Installations over WiFi

The Power TakeOff WiFi Kit is the ideal power monitoring product for industrial applications where routing Ethernet cables to reach individual power meters might be deemed either too difficult, too impractical, or too expensive to do. In such cases, businesses that use the product save money on installation costs over other solutions that do not include a wireless option—or that require a separate wireless installation by a dedicated wireless team. Properly setup, the unit collects data in one-minute intervals, making it available to energy managers through any computer, tablet, or smartphone. This allows them to keep track of energy consumption in real-time even while they are on the go. Alerts for high consumption or unusual demand can also be set up and be sent via email, test message, or phone call.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/2014/10/17/new-equipment-to-monitor-dc-current-sensor-installations-over-wifi/

New Kit Monitors AC and DC Current Transformer Setups over Mobile

Notable among Aim Dynamics’ range of Power TakeOff meters is the Power TakeOff Cellular Kit, which is equipped with a 3G/4G cellular attachment that allows it to send energy consumption updates over standard mobile communications networks. This makes it incredibly useful for monitoring even remote facilities that are outside the range of wired and Wi-Fi telecommunications networks. Power TakeOff’s meters collect data at one-minute intervals, making it available through a wide variety of channels. Users can monitor energy usage, as well as weather, building utilization, production, and occupancy normalization data in real-time on any web-enabled device. This information can then be used to optimize energy consumption, allowing a company to reduce costs, obtain an ENERGY STAR rating, and/or earn LEED credits.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/2014/10/16/new-kit-monitors-ac-and-dc-current-transformer-setups-over-mobile/

Typical Applications for DC Current Sensors

The ability to monitor currents discretely is often a requirement for the accurate control of the complex DC circuits used in many commercial and industrial applications today. DC current sensors are often used to facilitate the monitoring required. These are used in applications such as:

Remotely Monitor Flexible Current Transformer Setups with New Meter

The Power TakeOff Ethernet Kit from Aim Dynamics is a power monitoring package that includes the Power TakeOff Meter with built-in Ethernet connectivity in a weather-resistant NEMA Type 3 enclosure, equipment and software setup support and training, and a monthly subscription to the Power TakeOff Service. Custom configuration of the Power TakeOff system based on your CT requirements, ongoing software support, and free access to new software features also come standard. Designed to record energy consumption in one-minute intervals, the Power TakeOff meter makes available energy consumption data on a wide range of platforms. This allows users to monitor usage and costs on any computer, tablet, or smartphone, and receive real-time alerts of high or unusual demand by email, text message, or phone call.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/2014/10/15/remotely-monitor-flexible-current-transformer-setups-with-new-meter/

Split Core Current Transformer Distributor Launches Improved Website

Aim Dynamics’ new website features several improvements over its previous version. First, it is built on the Volusion ecommerce platform, which is designed to be remarkably customer-centric, allowing for the quick administration of customer and transaction data. It also includes other useful features not typically available on other ecommerce platforms, such as returns and the ability to print invoices. Second, the homepage features a cleaner, crisper design that’s on par with current web design standards. Menu bars, text, and product listings are clearly laid out to aid accessibility and navigability.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/2014/10/14/split-core-current-transformer-distributor-launches-improved-website/

Safe, Accurate High-voltage Measurements

Regardless of current type, all high-voltage currents pose a significant risk to the life and limbs of the people who work with them. Given this, one might be tempted to think that avoiding high-voltage currents altogether might be best for all involved. However, there are instances when working with high-voltage currents cannot be avoided.

Take for example power transmission. In this application, electricity is raised to a higher voltage to reduce line loss at long distances. Additionally, many industrial devices require higher voltages due to their higher power requirements.

DC Current Sensors Play a Vital Role in Managing Stored Solar Power

Of course, utility companies still need an accurate DC current sensor to ensure that the batteries won’t become overloaded. If not, the power storage units may get damaged or become unstable like the power grid. Fortunately, companies like Aim Dynamics offer DC or AC current sensors designed specifically to prevent this scenario. These tools, along with the batteries, serve as a viable stopgap until Hawaii can upgrade its power grid to better accommodate solar energy produced by households.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/2014/09/12/dc-current-sensors-play-a-vital-role-in-managing-stored-solar-power/

DC Current Transformer Suppliers Play Role in Green Energy Adoption

In light of the increased acceptance and implementation of alternative energy sources, DC voltage transducer manufacturers and suppliers play a very important role. Solar panels typically produce a direct current output, which is later converted into an alternating current. At larger quantities, such as would be experienced in UC’s installation, accurate DC measurement can be difficult, so transducers and transformers are necessary. By providing the measurement systems required to accurately and precisely monitor the health and performance of the power-generating equipment, DC current transformer suppliers, like Aim Dynamics, assist in making a future where green energy is not the alternative, but the mainstream source, a distinct possibility.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/2014/09/11/dc-current-transformer-suppliers-play-role-in-green-energy-adoption/

Install a Flexible Current Transformer, Ready for a Gas-Powered Future

Unlike other measuring devices, this transformer can be easily installed onto an existing power system without interference, making it a practical choice for electrical engineers. So-called ‘split-core’ transformers, in particular, are compact enough to be assembled around a buss bar without disconnecting it, which, normally, is the standard procedure when installing other power measuring devices. Given that more and more people will be tapping into the growing, gas-powered Texas grid soon, quick and easy installation of flexible current transformers will be vital if utility companies want to provide reliable services. Of course, this is not to say that any type of current transformer can be used without worry. For starters, transformers meant for power measuring systems must be durable enough to withstand a variety of power currents.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/2014/09/10/install-a-flexible-current-transformer-ready-for-a-gas-powered-future/

Keep Informed of Your Firm’s Power Usage with Split Core Transformers

This provides a variety of choices among the available split core transformers and other types from Aim Dynamics. In the past, experts would have chosen solid core transformers for their inexpensiveness and their accuracy. However, the problem with them is that they have to be put in place at installation; if you want to install a solid core current transformer afterwards, you’ll have to turn off the main power and be ready to pull out some wires. In contrast, a reliable split core current transformer would be able to be snapped on over a wire, with no need for screws or brackets. They can be added to an installation by placing control panels at important junctions in a system, so as to gather data. They aren’t as accurate as wound current transformers and have a higher price tag, but they are often the only options available for some situations like older facilities or the need for immediate power monitoring.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/2014/09/09/keep-informed-of-your-firms-power-usage-with-split-core-transformers/

Choosing a Core Transformer: Factors to Consider

Most industrial processes that rely on electricity require the use of power meters. These devices allow operators to measure just how much electric current is being utilized and thereby monitor changes or fluctuations that may affect productivity. Power meters and other electrical measuring instruments come with a small but extremely vital current transformer (CT), which reduces the level of electric current that passes through the measuring instrument.

The Current Transformer’s Role in a Circuit

Electrical measurements are critical to industries that rely on electricity for production continuity. After all, aside from potential interruptions due to sudden current flow changes, over fusing can lead to fires and increased current flow through the wires. Constant monitoring of the current flow using measuring instruments, such as an ammeter, is imperative in any electrical system.

Unfortunately, most measuring instruments cannot take the current flowing through live wires. Like how electricity can severely injure living things that come into contact with an open electrical source, so does the circuitry inside these instruments burn when subjected to excessive currents. An electrical measuring instrument has to be protected so it can continue to measure alternating current without the risk of over fusing.

Arming Your Clients against Electric Shock

When you’re in the business of providing power monitoring equipment, you should always be ready to offer safety precautions to your customers. With the potentially fatal hazards associated with electrical systems, your customers should be fully aware of the risks and invest on ways to prevent them. By giving them useful information, you may even bring them to better appreciate the technologies you provide.

Notes when Using a DC Transformer

Nearly all households in the U.S. are using AC (alternating current) power, mainly because it is easier to change the voltage of this type of electricity than DC (direct current) power. However, some household appliances, like a TV, require DC power to run properly, making a DC current transformer at home important.

AC Current Sensors and More—Power Monitoring Systems for Businesses

One of the major expenditures a business has is its power consumption, so any company hoping to maximize its budget should consider installing a dedicated power monitoring system. In fact, a single accurate DC current sensor along with reliable transformers can help pinpoint where power usage is wasteful or inefficient. To illustrate, here’s an excerpt from Jon A. Bickel’s article for Electrical Construction and Maintenance concerning the benefits of installing such a system.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/2014/08/07/ac-current-sensors-and-more-power-monitoring-systems-for-businesses/

Energy Tracking: Why It’s Done and What You Need

As a retailer of power monitoring equipment, your customers are going to request for various devices for different purposes. You have to be familiar with the principles and the tools needed for these purposes, so you can assist your clients well. Here are some common reasons why energy tracking is done and what devices may be needed:

Daily Physics in Action: The Underrated AC and DC Current Transformer

You should learn as much as you can about the electrical devices around you—especially if it’s your business to do so. It’s also essential that you purchase only from efficient suppliers like Aim Dynamics as they have most of what you’ll need, from transformers to a reliable DC voltage transducer.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/2014/08/06/daily-physics-in-action-the-underrated-ac-and-dc-current-transformer/

The Pros of Using a Split Core Current Transformer

Power measurement systems require transformers to work properly. There are two main types of transformers for this use: solid core and split core. These devices vary in terms of performance and cost, the latter being one the major reasons some users choose solid core over split core transformers. However, split core transformers have many advantages over solid core.

Tips for Data Centers—Cost-Cutting to Flexible Current Transformers

Replacing damaged or inefficient servers with ones that use lower power server chips to reduce energy wastage. To get a picture of how efficient your servers really are, utilize an auditing software to monitor all operations of machines. Cutting out ones that are not useful saves more. Of course, all of these efforts won’t make sense without monitoring energy consumption—and this can be done with the help of sub-metering via a reliable flexible current transformer.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/2014/08/05/tips-for-data-centers-cost-cutting-to-flexible-current-transformers/

Tracking Electricity with the Use of Split Core Current Transformers

According to MetersUSA.com, split core CTs are “for measuring currents from 100 to 5000 amps, with windows in varying sizes from 1″ by 2″ to 13″ by 30″. Since one end of a split core CT is removable, the bus bar or load conductor doesn’t have to be disconnected during installation. This is why quality split core current transformers are easy to install, without even interrupting power supply or systems.
http://blog.aimdynamics.com/2014/08/04/tracking-electricity-with-the-use-of-split-core-current-transformers/

Understanding Current Sensing

Current sensing is used to measure the flow of electricity that passes through a point. Specifically, it measures how much current is flowing in a wire. Commonly used for circuit protection and controlling, it’s also intended for monitoring electricity and enhancing its performance.

Understanding AC and DC Current Transformers

When your company needs to monitor electrical usage, one of the more accurate means to do so is to use current transformers. Working for both alternate current and direct current, they provide a way to measure the high voltage currents that are usually used by industrial and commercial firms; they do this by converting the current into a much lower value so it can be measured safely and easily. There are three types of current transformers on the market.

Measuring Currents in Data Center Mains

Running a data center can be tough business. If the investment in equipment doesn’t put a massive dent in your budget, year-to-year operations costs certainly might as your equipment draws immense amounts of power from your suppliers.

Types of Current Transformers

A current transformer is a basic piece of electrical equipment that is designed with two windings or coils. The primary winding takes in an electrical current from a source and transforms it into an alternating current as it passes through the second winding. Essentially, there are three main types of current transformers according to the functions of its construction:

What Does a DC Current Sensor Do?

DC current sensors, in simple terms, take electrical measurements in the same way a thermometer determines the temperature of an item or area. Like all other measuring devices, DC current sensors can function to make simple and complex measurements. In its most basic form, a current sensor detects electrical current in a wire and generates a signal proportional to it.

DC current sensor generated signals can be utilized to display the measured current in an ammeter or can be stored for further analysis in a database. Moreover, it can also be used for control purposes of electrical devices. As a measuring device, DC current sensors detects the current input and can come out with output signal for both unipolar and digital output types. For a unipolar output, it duplicates the wave shape of the sensed current. For a digital output, on the other hand, it changes when the sensed current exceeds a certain threshold.

DC current sensors, in some cases, can be connected directly to electrical instruments while it is more common that some signal conditioning is used. Some current-sense applications call for isolation between the DC current sense’s resistor and the measurement circuits. In such cases, isolation amplifiers and modulators may be used.

DC current measurement don’t just take place in laboratories anymore as many common devices like battery chargers have some form of current sense resistor in them. This is why knowing the basics of current sensors is important.

Can You Use DC on a Current Transformer?

Current transformers are a staple tool in any industry that uses electricity. Basically, a current transformer takes in a current that is too powerful and reduces it (“step down”) to a more manageable quantity. It does this by using coils or windings, with the primary one accepting the input current and the secondary winding producing the output current. Since the output current is proportional to the input one, you can easily measure the former by noting the number of coils the secondary winding has.

Of course, the type of current you introduce into the transformer plays a vital role, too. As it happens, many people wonder why you can’t use a direct current (DC) power system with transformers for power distribution.

The answer is simple: electromagnetic induction. A direct current is unidirectional, so the magnetic field it creates in the primary and secondary coils are unchanging. Unfortunately, without a changing magnetic field, electrons will not travel from one coil to the other, and thus the current cannot be “stepped down.”

What can you do to measure and reduce a direct current? One way to do this is to pulse the DC voltage supplied to the transformer. Another method is to transform the DC to an alternating current or AC. As the name suggests, an AC naturally creates a changing magnetic field, making it ideal for use with transformers.

Go Split Core for Easy Monitoring Maintenance

Solid core current transformers typically have a long lifespan, however, they do break down over time. When they do, it can sometimes be difficult, if not impossible, to replace them without affecting power delivery downstream.

When continuous power delivery is a must, utilizing split core CTs might be ideal. Since the rings of a split core CT can be opened up, removal and installation of the device can be achieved without having to disconnect the feeder lines they are meant to monitor.

It should be noted, however, that split core CTs do have their disadvantages over solid core CTs:

First, split core CTs are typically less accurate than solid core CTs. When accuracy is your priority, going solid core may be your only option. When faced with such a case, it may be best to incorporate a backup power supply in your design so that the main feeders can be disconnected for safe replacement of the solid core CT.

Second, split core CTs are also more expensive than solid core CTs. Some would argue, however, that in cases where a backup power supply is not a feasible option, the cost of using split core CTs can be justified by the mitigated impact to production the replacement of a CT might otherwise have.

Finally, split core CTs are bulkier than their solid core counterparts. While this might not be a problem in most cases, such aspect should be highly considered when space is at a premium.

A Focus on Split Core Current Transformers

Transformers are useful devices that transfer energy between two or more circuits by employing electromagnetic induction. They also come in the form of laminated core, toroidal, auto, variable, and others that are designed to serve specific functions. One of these specialized types of energy transfer devices is the split core current transformer.

Just like other types of transformers, the split core variety measures alternating current that flows through conductors, but comes with a distinguishing feature: its design. Unlike common transformers that come in a toroidal coil, the design of a split core current transformer allows it to be assembled around a buss bar without the need to disconnect the buss bar. For this unique feature, the split core type employ C-cores and U-core structures because they are built for easy dismantling and reconstruction, thereby saving time and energy.

Split core current transformers are commonly used for lower frequency applications and normally employ grain oriented silicon steel for the metal core. This type of transformer can also use nickel alloys and more exotic materials for a core to ensure less core loss at higher frequencies (typically up to about 10 kilohertz). Despite its low frequency application, the lower core loss factor makes split core types suitable for high accuracy current transformers.

Considerations in Choosing a Current Sensor

Whether in homes or businesses, cost is often one of the primary considerations in procuring devices,  such as a current sensor. You can certainly find products that would fit your budget, but you have to be wary of the value you get. With careful consideration, you can avoid buying inappropriate or low quality current sensors that can only result in high repair costs or inefficient outcomes.

Know the purpose for a current sensor

Current sensors can measure various energies, such as light, temperature, and magnetic fields, and convert the parameters to measurable electrical signals. Mainly used in power or instrumentation systems, this device is essential to those who wish to monitor electrical and other energy levels present in a process or situation. In industries, current sensors are typically used in batteries and chargers, voltage regulators, power-generating equipment, and other machines or electronics.

A DC current sensor is used for batteries, fuel, and solar cells, which has currents that flow in a single direction (direct current). On the other hand, an AC current sensor is commonly used in power sources that create alternating currents, which supply electricity.

Study specifications

Once you know the specific type of current sensor to acquire, pay attention to the specifications of available products. Distributors will provide comprehensive details on a product’s features and functionality. Make sure that you choose a product that complies with standards on accuracy, and which provide detailed parameters for its effective use, such as measurements, ranges, calibrations, and others.

Stay Safe When Working with Electrical Equipment

When working in dangerous environments, safety should always be the first priority. This is especially true for those who work with electricity. With that in mind, here are a few safety measures you should take before you start working:

Check Electrical Equipment

Malfunctioning electrical equipment is a massive electrocution risk. Inspect your equipment carefully for any faulty or peeling wiring and other forms of damage. If your device has a current transformer, don’t forget to inspect that as well. If you feel a tingling sensation when touching an electrical device, stop working immediately and ask for replacement equipment.

Take Off Your Watch

It is no secret that metals conduct electricity, so remove your watch while you’re working. Rings, piercings, and jewelry should also be removed. It may seem like an obvious thing to do, but this important safety measure easily slips the mind of many people.

Bring a Towel

A small, super absorbent face towel will suffice. This is so that you can wipe off any sweat from areas where your skin is exposed, thereby decreasing the chance of your sweat conducting electricity.

Working with electricity is no laughing matter. All it takes is for one person to be lax in his or her safety procedures for an accident to happen. Always run through the safety measures above before you start working with electricity.

Choosing a Split-Core Transformer

Current measurement is vital to ensuring the proper delivery of electricity. That’s why you must choose the best current transformer on the market for the most accurate measurements possible.

These days, many companies choose to implement split-core transformers for retrofit measurements. Given their designs, they are extremely easy and safe to install, and do not require the power line to be disconnected prior to installation.

Of course, there are many types and models of split-core transformers out there. To make purchasing easier, keep these buying tips in mind:

Take Note of Capacity

When looking for split-core transformers, the first consideration should be its capacity. After all, you wouldn’t want to purchase a model that has a lower capacity rating than the power line it’s supposed to measure. Fortunately, some brands offer transformers that have a rated input of up to 200 Amp.

Accuracy

With the appropriate capacity rating defined, your next consideration should be the accuracy of the product. For split-core transformers, an accuracy of 10-130% of the rated current is ideal. Linearity accuracy should also be rated ±1%.

Your Supplier

Of course, choosing a top-notch supplier is just as important as choosing an excellent product. With their help, you’ll gain access to a wide variety of quality products at reasonable prices. They’ll also ensure that your orders are delivered on time and in excellent condition.

What are Current Transformers and What Do They Do?

There’s no denying that electricity is indispensable in today’s world. However, the same power that runs your TV can also be very destructive if delivered to your home in too large a quantity. That’s why proper electricity level is vital to ensure that your appliances don’t just explode the moment you plug them in.

Yet monitoring and measuring electricity is not exactly an easy task, especially since electricity is distributed in dangerously high voltage levels. Even if you had an instrument, how can it survive exposure to such power?