Current Transformers

Current Transformers: Theory, Applications, and Custom Solutions

Current transformers are essential components in power measurement and conversion applications. At Gowanda, we specialize in designing and manufacturing high-quality bobbin wound transformers, including current transformers, to meet diverse industry needs.

Custom Magnetic Design Form

What Are Bobbin Wound Transformers?

Bobbin wound transformers are versatile components featuring coils wound on a form or bobbin, with the core structure mounted to this bobbin. These transformers offer flexibility in design, accommodating a wide range of shapes and sizes to suit specific applications.

Key Features of Current Transformers

Operational Frequency Range: Our current transformers are designed to operate efficiently from 60Hz (line frequency) up to the MHz range, making them suitable for various applications.

Mounting Options: We offer current transformers that can be mounted on surface mount headers for easy printed circuit board connections, enhancing their versatility.
Wideband Capabilities: Our wideband current transformers are engineered to perform across a broad frequency spectrum, ensuring accurate measurements in diverse scenarios.

Current Transformer Theory

Function of a Current Transformer

Current transformers play a crucial role in power systems by stepping down high currents to lower, measurable levels. This allows for safe and accurate measurement of large currents, often in high-voltage environments.

Core Structure of a Current Transformer

The core structure of a current transformer is designed to efficiently transfer magnetic flux between the primary and secondary windings. This design is critical for maintaining accuracy across a wide range of current levels and frequencies.

Applications for Current Transformers

Current transformers find extensive use in:

  • Electrical Power Industry: They are crucial for metering and protective relaying applications
  • Large Current Measurement: These transformers facilitate safe measurement of high currents, even in high-voltage environments
  • Power Supply Systems: They play a vital role in various power supply and conversion setups

Current Sense Transformers

Current sense transformers are a specialized type of current transformer designed for precise current measurement in electronic circuits. They are particularly useful in power management and control applications.

What are the main differences between current transformers and current sense transformers?

Current Transformers

Current Sense Transformers

Purpose and Application
  • Primarily used in power systems for measuring high currents
  • Commonly employed in metering, protection, and control applications in electrical power systems
  • Typically handle large currents ranging from hundreds to thousands of amperes
  • Used for precise current measurement in electronic circuits and power supply applications
  • Often utilized in power management, control circuits, and instrumentation
  • Can measure a wide range of currents, from low to medium levels
Working Principle
  • Operate based on electromagnetic induction
  • Use a primary winding (fewer turns) and a secondary winding (more turns) to step down high currents
  • May use various principles including Hall effect, inductance or resistance
  • Some designs use a wire-through-hole configuration for non-invasive current sensing
Output Signal
  • Typically provide AC current output signals (e.g., 5A or 1A)
  • Often provide diverse output signals, including small current signals (e.g., 50mA, 100mA), voltage signals, or 4-20mA current signals
Frequency Range
  • Generally designed for power frequency applications (50/60Hz)
  • Can operate over a wide frequency range, from power frequencies up to 1 MHz or higher
Size and Form Factor
  • Often larger and bulkier due to construction
  • Can be more compact and offer versatile designs for easier integration
Safety Considerations
  • Should not be open-circuited when in use, as this can generate dangerously high voltages
  • Require short-circuiting of the secondary side when disconnected
  • Generally pose fewer safety risks compared to current transformers
  • Some designs, like Hall effect sensors, don’t require short-circuiting when disconnected

In summary, while both types of transformers are used for current measurement, current transformers are more suited for high-current power system applications, while current sense transformers offer greater flexibility and are often used in electronic circuits and power supply designs for more precise current monitoring and control.

Why Choose Gowanda for Current Transformers?

  1. Expertise: With years of experience in transformer design and manufacturing, we deliver reliable and efficient solutions.
  2. Quality: Our current transformers are built to exacting standards, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
  3. Customization: We work closely with clients to create bespoke current transformer solutions that address specific challenges.
  4. Innovation: Our commitment to research and development keeps us at the forefront of current transformer technology.

Whether you need standard current transformers or custom-designed solutions, Gowanda is your trusted partner for all your power measurement and conversion needs. Contact us today to explore how our current transformers can enhance your applications and improve your power systems’ efficiency and reliability.

Standard Current Transformers

Current Sense Transformer

Series L µH DCR Ohms Current Rating mA DC
GCSVC 8 – 420 0.80 – 16.5 0.30 – 1.80

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Custom Current Transformer Solutions

At Gowanda, we understand that off-the-shelf components may not always meet specific requirements. That’s why we offer custom current transformer solutions tailored to your unique needs:

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