1. Current Transformer (CT)
Substation Secondary Design Course | Eng Ahmed Metwally
Introduction to
By [F05] Team:
Amal Nasr | Mohamed Kamal | Salah Alfiky | Hassan El Sawy | Ahmed Tamer
3. Introduction & Description
How current transformers work
Electromagnetic Induction:
• When an alternating current flows through the primary winding (the conductor), it
generates a magnetic field around the conductor.
• This changing magnetic field induces a current in the secondary winding according
to Faraday’s Law of Electromagnetic Induction, which states that a change in
magnetic flux through a circuit induces an electromotive force (EMF) in that circuit.
4. Introduction & Description
How current transformers work
• A CT requires good accuracy around the nominal current
value.
• The metering instruments do not need to withstand
currents as high as the protection relays
• Current transformers are used to supply information to the
protective relays
• ratio • burden • accuracy class
They are defined by:
5. Introduction & Description
How current transformers work
Current Transformation:
The relationship between the primary current (𝐼𝑝) and the secondary current (𝐼𝑠 ) is defined
by the turns ratio (𝑁) of the transformer:
Ip
Is
=
Ns
Np
Ns: number of turns in the secondary winding
Np: number of turns in the primary winding.
For example, in a 1000:1 CT, 1000 A in the primary results in 1 A in the secondary.
6. Introduction & Description
How current transformers work
Single-ratio CTs
Standard single-ratio CTs that are manufactured in the United States are as listed:
7. Introduction & Description
How current transformers work
Multi-ratio CTs
• Single primary winding and a tapped
secondary winding as shown:
• The standard multi-ratio CTs that are are
listed:
8. Components
Key components
Core:
1) Material: laminated silicon steel to reduce eddy current losses, or
ferrite for high-frequency applications.
2) Types:
a) Toroidal Core: Circular shape, used for high accuracy and low
burden.
b) Bar Core: Used for large conductors, where the bar passes
through the core.
2. Windings:
1) Primary Winding: Usually consists of a single turn (the conductor
itself) or a few turns for higher current applications
2) Secondary Winding: Multiple turns are wound around the core to
step down the current
9. Components
Key components
3. Insulation:
1) Materials:
a) Resin: Used in encapsulated CTs for moisture resistance.
b) Oil: Provides cooling and insulation in larger CTs.
2) Housing:
Purpose: Protects the internal components from
environmental factors.
Mounting Options: CTs can be mounted on switchgear,
busbars, or distribution panels.
10. Types & Uses
Uses
1 Measurement
- Energy Meters
- Power Quality Monitoring
2 Protection
- Provides information to the
protection relay
Examples
Used in all substation in the HV and MV switchgears
11. Types & Uses
Types
Current transformers (CTs) are categorized based on their design, application, and
construction. Each type serves specific purposes in electrical systems, particularly in
measurement and protection, tailored for specific applications and installation
requirements.
They are extensively used in protective relaying, energy measurement, and monitoring
within power systems, ensuring the safe and accurate assessment of electrical currents in
high-voltage environments.
12. Types & Uses
Types
1. Wound Current Transformer
A CT that has a primary winding consisting of one or more turns mechanically encircling
the core or cores. The primary and secondary windings are insulated from each other and
from the cores and are assembled as an integral structure (C57.13).
Voltage level: High Voltage (HV)
Usage: Indoor
13. Types & Uses
Types
1. Wound Current Transformer
•Description: A wound current transformer is a transformer with separate primary and
secondary windings wrapped around a laminated core. It’s located on the high-voltage side of
substations. The primary winding consists of one or more turns of large cross-section wire
connected in series with the circuit to be measured.
•Application: Commonly used in applications where high accuracy is required, such as in
metering and protection in substations.
•Characteristics:
• Accuracy: High accuracy over a wide range of currents.
• Voltage Rating: Can handle high voltages, making them suitable for high-power
applications.
14. Types & Uses
Types
2. Toroidal (or Ring) Current Transformer
•Description: A toroidal CT features a doughnut-shaped core
through which the primary conductor passes. The secondary
winding is wound around the core.
•Application: Often used in energy monitoring systems and
industrial applications due to their compact design.
•Characteristics:
• Ease of Installation.
• Compact Size: Smaller and lighter compared to other types.
• Noise: Produces less noise.
• Power Efficiency & Electromagnetic Shielding.
Voltage level: Medium Voltage (MV) and Low Voltage (LV)
Usage: Indoor or Outdoor
15. Types & Uses
Types
3. Split-Core Current Transformer
•Description: A unique design that allows the core to be
opened and closed around a conductor without interrupting
the circuit.
•Application: Widely used in energy auditing, monitoring, and
retrofitting applications.
•Characteristics:
• Flexibility: Ideal for applications where access to
conductors is limited.
• Portability: Lightweight and easy to transport.
Voltage level: Medium Voltage (MV) and Low Voltage (LV)
Usage: Indoor (typically)
16. Types & Uses
Types
4. Bar-Type Current Transformer
It’s a special type of window current transformer with a solid bar placed permanently
through the window. It has a fixed, insulated straight conductor in the form of a bar, rod, or
tube that is a single primary turn passing through the magnetic circuit and that is
assembled to the secondary, core, and winding (C57.13)
Voltage level: Medium Voltage (MV)
Usage: Indoor
17. Types & Uses
Types
4. Bar-Type Current Transformer
•Description: The primary conductor is integrated into the
transformer design , while the secondary part consists of
windings wound on a circular core surrounding the primary
bar conductor. It’s typically used in switchgear.
•Application: Commonly found in high-current applications,
such as in substations and industrial distribution boards.
•Characteristics:
• High Current Handling: Can withstand stresses of heavy
overcurrent.
• Cost: Costly compared to the wound-type counterparts
but give extremely accurate results.
18. Types & Uses
Types
5. Window-Type Current Transformer
A CT that features an open window through which a single conductor passes. The
magnetic field generated by the conductor induces current in the secondary winding. It’s
very similar to a bushing type CT.
Voltage level: Medium Voltage (MV) and Low Voltage (LV)
Usage: Indoors or Outdoors
19. Types & Uses
Types
5. Window-Type Current Transformer
•Description: It has a secondary winding insulated from and
permanently assembled on the core but has no primary
winding as an integral part of the structure.
•Application: Suitable for retrofitting and monitoring existing
installations.
•Characteristics:
• Ease of Use: Simple to install without modifying the
existing circuitry.
• Versatility: Compatible with various conductor sizes.
20. Types & Uses
Types
6. Bushing Current Transformer
A BCT is a window-type current transformer mounted around
the bushing’s flange. It may be inside the main tank of an oil
circuit breaker or mounted externally. It consists only of a
toroidal-shaped core with a secondary winding. The bushing’s
center conductor forms the single turn primary of the BCT
(doesn’t have a traditional primary winding).
Voltage level: High Voltage (HV)
Usage: Outdoor
21. Types & Uses
Types
6. Bushing Current Transformer
•Description: Integrated within the bushing of high-voltage equipment, such
as transformers and circuit breakers. It features a primary winding around the
conductor passing through the bushing and a secondary winding
encapsulated within the bushing.
•Application: Used in substations and high-voltage systems for current
measurement and protection.
•Characteristics:
• Compact Design: Space-efficient and seamlessly integrates with
existing equipment.
• High Voltage Capability: Designed to handle high-voltage levels.
• Durability: Built to withstand harsh environmental conditions.
• Safety: Provides electrical isolation for safe operation.
22. Types & Uses
Types
7. Optical Current Transformer (OCT)
• Principle: Optical current transformers (OCTs) use fiber optic technology to measure
current based on the Faraday effect for current measurement.
• Advantages:
• Electromagnetic Interference Immunity: Making them ideal for high-voltage
environments where noise can affect accuracy.
• High Electrical Isolation: For safety in high-voltage applications.
• High Speed Measurements
• Wide Bandwidth: For accurate high-frequency signal measurement.
• Lightweight and Easier to Install: Compared to traditional CTs.
23. Types & Uses
Types
7. Optical Current Transformer (OCT)
• Applications: Ideal for substations, renewable energy
systems, and smart grids.
• Limitations: Generally, more expensive and may require
specialized handling.
• Standards: Governed by IEC and IEEE standards to ensure
safety and performance.
Voltage level: High Voltage (HV) and Medium Voltage (MV)
Usage: Outdoor (typically)
24. Types & Uses
Broader category
Current sensors
• Definition: This broader category includes various devices that measure current,
including but not limited to CTs. Current sensors are devices that measure the flow of
electric current in a conductor. They can provide information about both alternating
current (AC) and direct current (DC) levels.
Relationship Between Current Sensors and Current Transformers
• Subset: CT is a specific type of current sensor designed primarily for AC measurements,
particularly in high-power applications, and external power supply isn't needed. Whereas
current sensor is a generalized concept, that can detect both AC and DC (transforms AC
into DC or DC into DC) and external power supply is needed.
• Measurement Principle: CTs rely on electromagnetic induction, while other current
sensors may use different principles such as the Hall effect or resistive measurements.
• Applications: Both CTs and other current sensors can be used in similar applications,
such as energy monitoring, protection, and metering.
25. Key Manufacturers
Top Manufacturers
1. ABB
❑ Overview: A global leader in power
and automation technologies with a
diverse portfolio.
❑ Products:
1. Types of CTs: Indoor and outdoor
CTs, metering CTs, protection CTs.
2. Notable Product: ABB’s
"Transformer Protection CT",
designed for high accuracy in
protection applications.
❑ Location: Zurich, Switzerland.
CT30/250, Split-core current
transformer used to transform
primary currents to 5A
26. Key Manufacturers
Top Manufacturers
2. Siemens:
❑ Overview: A major player in electrical
engineering with a focus on
innovation.
❑ Products:
1. Types of CTs: Ring core CTs,
encapsulated CTs for harsh
environments.
2. Notable Product: Siemens’
“SENTRON".
❑ Location: Munich, Germany. SENTRON CT 1200/5 A 10 VA CL
0.5, Bushing-type cuurent
transformer
27. Key Manufacturers
Top Manufacturers
3. Schneider Electric
❑ Overview: Focuses on smart and
sustainable energy solutions.
❑ Products:
1. Types of CTs: Smart CTs
integrated with IoT technology for
remote monitoring.
2. Notable Product: Schneider’s
"PowerLogic" series for energy
management.
❑ Location: Rueil-Malmaison, France. PowerLogic CT 150/5A, Split-core
current transformer
28. Key Manufacturers
Top Manufacturers
4. General Electric (GE)
❑ Overview: Known for high-quality
electrical equipment and advanced
technology.
❑ Products:
1. Types of CTs: Protective CTs,
measuring CTs for different
voltage levels.
2. Notable Product: GE “OSKF" CTs
designed for grid solutions.
❑ Location: Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
Oil-Insulated Current
Transformers
72.5 kV to 800 kV, up to 5000A
29. Key Manufacturers
Top Manufacturers
5. Eaton
❑ Overview: Provides power
management solutions across various
sectors.
❑ Products:
1. Types of CTs: Precision CTs for
metering and protective
applications.
2. Notable Product: Eaton’s “T-Line"
CTs known for excellent
performance.
❑ Location: Dublin, Ireland.
T-Line, Current transformer HF8A,
2500A/5A, Class 0.2S
30. Parameters
Rated Primary Current Ipr
Shall be selected according to the load current and to make sure CT do not reach saturation
Rated Secondary Current Isr
Typically, 1A or 5A this is according to:
- CT burden
- Distance between relay and CT
Burden
Impedance of secondary circuit usually expressed in VA (Isr
2 Rb) at specific power factor
Rb: rated resistive burden
Rct: secondary winding resistance
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31. Parameters
Extended Current Rating (%)
Expressed as a percentage of the rated current (e.g., 120%, 150%, 200%), elucidates the CT’s ability
to handle higher currents while maintaining temperature limits
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32. Parameters
Rated Short-time Thermal Current Ith
Maximum current the CT shall withstand for a specific short time typically 1-3 seconds
Rated Dynamic Current Idyn
Maximum peak value the CT shall withstand without being mechanically damaged
Used to address the electromagnetic forces resulting from a short circuit
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33. Parameters
Highest voltage for equipment Um (r.m.s.)
Highest voltage during normal operation and shall be at
least equal to the system voltage
Rated power-frequency withstand voltage Ud (r.m.s.)
A typical 50/60Hz waveform for 60 seconds
Rated lightning impulse withstand voltage Up (peak)
A standard high voltage testing waveform characterized by
a fast-rising edge
Um < Ud < Up
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35. Parameters
Protection Cores
Example: 5P20
P: Accuracy class designation
5: Composite error, ±5%
20: Accuracy limit factor (ALF) this means that up to x20 the rated current, the composite error
will be sustained, and the core will not saturate
There are other types of classes used for distance and differential protection and transient
performance
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36. Parameters
Metering Cores
Examples: 0.1 – 0.2 – 0.2s – 0.5 – 0.5s – 1 – 3 – 5
The number above is ratio error
At these values burden can be 25-100% of rated
output
For 3 and 5 burden is 50-100%
Instrument Security Factor (ISF)
Examples FS5 and FS10
A multiple value of the primary current at which
the CT will saturate to prevent damage
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37. Parameters
Insulation Classes
Maximum continuous use temperature in degrees Celsius
10/29/2024 Current Transformer (CT) 37
Letter Designation Thermal Class °C
Y 90
A 105
E 120
B 130
F 155
H 180
N 200
R 220
IEC 60085-2007 Table 1 – Thermal class assignment
39. IEEE Std C57.13-2016
Accuracy class mean at 100%
rated current the error=0.3%
and at 10% rated current error
=0.6% (double).
Example: 0.3B-0.9
40. IEEE Std C57.13-2016 cont..
Metering class related to burden
impedance.
The accuracy class is the description of
how much voltage the transformer can
supply to the output
circuit(burden),without the CT core going
into saturation. C200,C400
41. What Is Knee Point According To IEEE Std C57.13-2016
1. CT secondary voltage
depend on the
primary current.
2. When the secondary
voltage
exceed the knee
voltage the CT become
saturated which means
there is no current
produce in secondary
winding or there is
distorted current that
lead to malfunction
operation of protective
relay.
42. What Is Knee Point According To IEC 61869-2
-IEC value is higher than
IEEE, IEEE is more
conservative
43. Compare between IEEE & IEC Standard.
Compare between IEEE & IEC class. Compare between IEC &IEEE
polarity symbol.
44. Saudi Electricity Company standard (SEC
Standard)
TSP: Transmission Service Provider
TES: Transmission Engineering Standard.
TMSS: Transmission Material Standards and Specification.
45. CT Class From TES-P-119.28
Note: if class PX is specify it shall be
preferred over class P
measuring current
transformers, the accuracy class
is designated by the highest
permissible percentage of the
ratio error (ε) at rated primary
current and rated output.
49. Notes
10/29/2024 Current Transformer (CT) 49
• Why Should the CT Secondary Never be Opened?
counter balancing flux.
Ø = Ø 1 - Ø 2 ,is the flux that flows through the core.
Its value is relatively small
If compared to Ø 1.
This flux maintains
linear relationship between secondary
and primary current depending on
the core material when secondary
connected with Load.
50. Notes
10/29/2024 Current Transformer (CT) 50
High Voltage Risk: potentially harmful voltages that can cause electric shock or damage
equipment.
Insulation Breakdown: high voltage produced can exceed the insulation ratings of the
transformer leading to insulation breakdown & possible arcing,fire hazards.
Equipment Damage: The excessive voltage can damage the CT itself and any connected devices,
such as meters or relays.
Safety Hazards: If someone is working on the system &inadvertently opens the secondary circuit,
they may be exposed to dangerous conditions. Protective measures that rely on the CT's proper
functioning may fail.
51. Notes
10/29/2024 Current Transformer (CT) 51
• Why is the polarity of a current transformer (CT) is crucial?
High voltage current transformer (HVCT) polarity
refers to the orientation of the transformer’s
primary and secondary windings and how they
relate to the direction of current flow.
53. Notes
10/29/2024 Current Transformer (CT) 53
• Why is the polarity of a current transformer (CT) is crucial?
• Accurate Measurement: If the CT is connected with the wrong polarity, the readings can be
reversed or inaccurate, leading to erroneous data.
• Protection Systems: Incorrect polarity can cause relays to trip when they shouldn’t or fail to
trip when needed, compromising system safety.
• System Coordination: In multi-CT setups, maintaining proper polarity ensures that all devices
operate in harmony. This is vital for coordination between different protection devices and
ensuring that faults are accurately detected and isolated.
• Phase Relationships: Accurate phase alignment is important for power quality and system
performance.
• Safety: Incorrectly connected CTs can lead to dangerous situations, such as those involving
high voltage surges when the secondary circuit is open.
54. Notes
10/29/2024 Current Transformer (CT) 54
What is the Dual Ratio Current Transformer ?
Current transformers having a center tapped
secondary. it is necessary to have available two
ratios of primary to secondary current from the
same secondary winding of the CT.
55. Notes
10/29/2024 Current Transformer (CT) 55
• What is the Dual Ratio Current Transformer ?
• The ratio obtained by the tap is usually one-half the ratio
obtained by the full secondary winding.
• With 200 amperes flowing in the primary, CT. They are used in
applications where a connection 1S1 – 1S2 will produce 5 amperes
out of the secondary.
• Then as the load grows to 400 amperes, the secondary circuit
will be reconnected to 1S1 – 1S3 to produce 5 amperes in the
secondary.
• It is not recommended to reconnect while the unit is energized,
the secondary terminals must be short circuited so as not to
induce high voltage in the secondary circuit.
• On a dual ratio tapped secondary CT, both the full winding and
the tapped winding cannot be operated simultaneously.
• Another design of CT commonly used is the double secondary
CT. Where the CT has two cores, two secondary windings and
one common primary winding.