This post details about What is an instrument transformer?, What is an instrument transformer?, What are the three types of transformer?
What is an instrument transformer?
An instrument transformer is a device used to measure electrical parameters and isolate measuring instruments from high voltages. They include current transformers (CT) and potential transformers (PT). CTs measure high currents by providing a reduced current proportional to the actual current, making them safer and more practical for measurement and monitoring.
PTs measure high voltages by lowering the voltage to a lower, more manageable level for accurate measurement.
The three types of transformers are:
What is an instrument transformer?
Power transformers: They are used in transmission networks to increase or decrease voltage levels between power plants and distribution networks.
They handle high power levels and are designed for continuous operation.
What are the three types of transformer?
Distribution Transformers: These transformers are used to supply power to end users by lowering the voltage of the distribution network to a level suitable for residential or commercial use. They are usually installed in distribution substations or on poles.
Instrument Transformers: This category includes current transformers (CT) and potential transformers (PT), used for measurement and protection purposes.
They provide accurate current and voltage readings and help isolate measuring and protection devices from high voltage circuits.
A transformer is an electrical device that changes the voltage level of alternating current (AC) in a circuit. It works on the principle of electromagnetic induction, where an alternating current in the primary winding creates a magnetic field which induces a voltage in the secondary winding.
Transformers are used to increase (raise) or decrease (lower) voltage levels, ensuring efficient transmission and distribution of power.
The function of a CT, or current transformer, is to measure and monitor electrical currents in a high voltage circuit. A current transformer steps down the high current to a lower, manageable level, proportional to the actual current, allowing accurate measurement by instruments and ensuring safety by isolating the measuring devices from the high voltage circuit.
CTs are crucial for protective relays, metering and monitoring in electrical systems.
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