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.

So how does an ammeter measure current without being electrocuted? Like any other devices, a transformer is needed to ensure that the supply of electricity entering the ammeter is kept at a minimum. In this case, a current transformer, a measuring device exclusive for electric current measurement, is required.

There are two types of current transformer: solid core and split core. A split core transformer is more advantageous than a solid core transformer because it has an opening where you can insert the live wire. Solid core transformers have to be installed at the same time the wires are being installed, which is quite impractical. Choosing a split core transformer instead will save you time and effort during installation.