How Is A Current Transformer (CT) Used In Metering?

Metering processes rely on having accurate insight into energy consumption across the grid. Energy providers need to know how much energy every attached residence, commercial property, or even individual portion of the grid is using to best keep up with demand and provide consistent service. 

Current transformers (CTs) provide this invaluable function with options like measuring RF beam current or measuring a filament current, which gives off measurable electrons after heating up.

There are multiple different CT options on the market, such as industrial-level meters that can measure current across national grids and more moderate CTs used by the electrical power industry to maintain local and regional functionalities. There are even residential and commercial KWh CTs used for net metering at 120V or 240V. 

At Stangenes, we specialize in industrial-level current transformers. 

Learn more about the importance of CTs in industrial-scale power systems, how they work, and how Stangenes can help with your next project.

Introduction to Current Transformers in Metering

Current transformer units  play a primary role in metering. These components can measure the total current flowing through a system, which equates to the downstream consumption within the grid or system. They primarily measure current via RF. After the energy transforms to RF, system operators can use the CTs to monitor flow, track changes, and stay apprised of real-time or aggregate consumption. Industrial-level current transformers are particularly vital because they can safely measure high levels of current. Depending on the inside diameter of the CT, it can also measure at high voltages of up to 100,000 V.

How Do Current Transformers Work in Metering?

Current transformers don’t directly measure the alternating current flowing through an industrial power grid. Often, the alternating current is too high, making it too difficult for the meter to read. Instead, the current flows through the system’s primary coil. As a result of the movement, it produces a magnetic field, which generates a proportionally lower current that flows through a secondary coil. 

Current transformers measure the current flowing through that secondary system to gauge the true consumption or current usage. 

Picture this general setup: a customer’s conductor provides the primary current through the circuit, which couples to the winding of the current transformer. The current transformer winding, which picks up the electromagnetic field’s current, is connected to a meter or measuring device which provides the data output. 

At Stangenes, our CTs connect with a conductor that passes through the center of the system to provide an accurate measurement of amps per volt.

Choosing the right CT products is essential for safe, accurate current monitoring and measuring. We advise that you consider the following:

• CTs should focus on the induced current, which reduces the amount of current that flows through the meter.
• The CT and metering apparatus should create a low-impedance path. This prevents loading on the primary conductor.
• Current transformers need to measure the current without loading it. Using systems that measure the current in a secondary coil as a reflection of the current in the primary coil is best.
• There are many different current transformers that can read meters, monitor small or national power grids, and provide continuous monitoring. Each device will need to meet specific criteria and ratings to ensure it can properly handle the current and voltage in the environment.

Applications of CT Metering

Industrial-level current transformer metering devices are used in the power industry to equip organizations with meter reading capabilities, as well as the ability to continuously monitor the power grid at large. 

At Stangenes, one of the most common applications for our current transformers is measuring current that flows into klystron and other electron tubes at high power levels. Our CTs can adjust to optimize output, detect wear and tear, and provide consistent monitoring for our clients. With these devices, users can ensure real-time performance aligns with expected performance and output.

Current Transformers in Beam Instrumentation and Particle Accelerators

CTs can also be used outside of the electric power industry. Additional applications include the following:

• Accelerating and measuring electron beams in sophisticated systems like the CERN Hadron Collider
• Measuring the current in particle beams, kick magnets, and pulsed power modulators in physics laboratories

Choose Stangenes Current Transformers for CT Metering

Measuring current is a vital step in generating and distributing electricity, ensuring consistent performance, and even completing complex physics experiments. 

Stangenes is a leading provider of high-performance current transformers that can provide long-lasting service in these applications. Our company is committed to creating innovative products that improve energy efficiency while reducing energy costs. 

Reach out today to learn more about our current transformers or to request a quote and start your order.