Editorial Technical Reference

Current Transformer

This page explains how Current Transformer is classified within Electrical Equipment Manufacturing. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

A device that transforms high primary current into a lower, proportional secondary current for measurement and protection purposes.

Representative product image. Confirm appearance and specifications with the manufacturer.

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Current Transformer

Definition
Within a Circuit Breaker Trip Unit, the current transformer is a critical sensing component that isolates and scales down the high current flowing through the main circuit to a safe, standardized level suitable for the trip unit's electronic monitoring and decision-making circuits. This component is essential for accurate current measurement and overcurrent protection in electrical distribution systems. It operates on the principle of electromagnetic induction, where the primary conductor carrying the load current acts as a single-turn primary winding, creating a magnetic flux in the core that induces a proportional, reduced current in the secondary winding. The secondary current is then used by the trip unit to monitor the circuit and initiate protective actions when necessary. The current transformer is designed to meet various electrical and environmental specifications, including rated primary current from 5 to 5000 A, rated secondary current from 1 to 5 A, accuracy classes from 0.2 to 5P20, rated burden from 2.5 to 30 VA, rated voltage from 0.66 to 35 kV, frequency of 50 or 60 Hz, thermal short-circuit current from 10 to 50 kA, dynamic short-circuit current from 25 to 125 kA, insulation class from E to H, operating temperature from -40 to 85 °C, degree of protection from IP54 to IP65, and weight from 5 to 200 kg. These parameters are specified in accordance with IEC 61869-2, IEC 60085, and IEC 60529 standards. The materials used include silicon steel laminations for the core, copper wire for the windings, and insulating resin or epoxy for encapsulation. The current transformer is a passive component that does not require external power for its operation. It is typically installed in the main circuit of a circuit breaker and is designed to withstand fault currents for a short duration. The selection of a current transformer depends on the maximum load current, the required accuracy, the burden of the connected devices, and the system voltage. It is important to verify the specific model's parameters and compliance with the relevant standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier before procurement.
Working Principle
The current transformer operates on the principle of electromagnetic induction. The primary conductor, which carries the load current, passes through the core and acts as a single-turn primary winding. This current creates a magnetic flux in the core, which induces a proportional, reduced current in the many-turn secondary winding. The secondary winding is connected to the trip unit's input, providing a scaled-down current that is safe for electronic monitoring. The transformation ratio is determined by the number of turns in the secondary winding relative to the primary. The core is made of silicon steel laminations to minimize losses and improve accuracy. The secondary current is typically in the range of 1 to 5 A, which is standard for meters and relays. The accuracy class indicates the permissible error in the transformation, with classes such as 0.2 for metering and 5P20 for protection. The burden, expressed in VA, must match the connected load to ensure accurate operation. The current transformer is designed to operate within specified voltage, frequency, and temperature ranges, and to withstand short-circuit currents for a limited time.
Common Materials
Silicon Steel Laminations, Copper Wire, Insulating Resin/Epoxy
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Rated Primary Current5–5000 ASelect based on max load currentIEC 61869-2
Rated Secondary Current1–5 AStandard output for meters and relaysIEC 61869-2
Accuracy Class0.2–5P20Metering vs protection classIEC 61869-2
Rated Burden2.5–30 VAMust match connected loadIEC 61869-2
Rated Voltage0.66–35 kVSystem insulation levelIEC 61869-2
Frequency50–60 HzMatching grid frequencyIEC 61869-2
Thermal Short-Circuit Current10–50 kAWithstands fault current for 1sIEC 61869-2
Dynamic Short-Circuit Current25–125 kAPeak withstand capabilityIEC 61869-2
Insulation ClassE–HThermal endurance of insulationIEC 60085
Operating Temperature-40–85 °CAmbient range for continuous operationIEC 61869-2
Degree of ProtectionIP54–IP65Dust and water ingress protectionIEC 60529
Weight5–200 kgDepends on voltage and current rating

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM
  • Core Part
    Provides a low-reluctance path for the magnetic flux generated by the primary current.
  • Primary Winding/Conductor Part
    Carries the load current to be measured; often a single bus bar or turn passing through the core window.
  • Secondary Winding Part
    Multiple turns of insulated wire wound around the core, producing the scaled-down output current.
  • Insulation Part
    Electrically isolates the windings from each other and the core, and provides mechanical protection.
  • Terminal Block
    Provides secure connection points for the secondary circuit wires to the trip unit.

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: Atmospheric to 1.5 bar (typical), up to 3 bar (special)
other spec: Frequency: 50/60 Hz (standard), 16-400 Hz (special); Accuracy: Class 0.1 to Class 3; Insulation: 0.66 kV to 36 kV
temperature: -40°C to +85°C (standard), up to +120°C (special)
Media Compatibility
✓ Air (dry/non-corrosive) ✓ Transformer oil (mineral/synthetic) ✓ SF6 gas (in switchgear)
Unsuitable: Conductive/abrasive slurries or corrosive chemical environments
Sizing Data Required
  • Primary current rating (A)
  • Secondary current rating (A)
  • Burden/load impedance (VA/Ω)

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Insulation Breakdown
Cause: Thermal aging, moisture ingress, or contamination leading to dielectric failure and short circuits.
Core Saturation
Cause: Excessive primary current or DC offset causing magnetic saturation, resulting in inaccurate measurements and overheating.
Maintenance Indicators
  • Audible humming or buzzing indicating loose windings or magnetic core issues
  • Visible discoloration, bulging, or oil leaks (in oil-filled units) signaling overheating or insulation failure
Engineering Tips
  • Implement regular insulation resistance testing and thermographic inspections to detect early degradation
  • Ensure proper burden matching and install protective devices like surge arrestors to prevent overcurrent and voltage transients

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
IEC 61869-2:2012 (Instrument transformers - Part 2: Additional requirements for current transformers) ANSI C57.13-2016 (IEEE Standard Requirements for Instrument Transformers) DIN EN 60044-1:2000 (Instrument transformers - Part 1: Current transformers)

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Ratio error: +/-0.1% at rated current
  • Phase displacement: +/-5 minutes at rated current
Quality Inspection
  • Accuracy class verification test (including ratio and phase angle measurements)
  • Dielectric withstand test (high-voltage insulation test)

Manufacturers of Current Transformer

12 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

Acrel Co., Ltd.
Shanghai, CN
CE IEC VDE
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Andeli Group Co., Ltd.
Shanghai, CN
Founded 19853000 + staff235,000 m²
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Huayi Electric Co., Ltd.
Wenzhou, Zhejiang, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Lugao Power Co.,Ltd
Xiangyang, Hubei, CN
Founded 2016nearly 60 employees staff3000 square meter
ISO9001 SGS CCC CE
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
MEWOI Electronics Co., Ltd
Guangzhou, Guangdong, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Xi'an Xigao Electricenergy Group Co., Ltd.
Xian, Shaanxi, CN
Founded 1993320000m2
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
ZHEJIANG VOLCANO ELECTRICAL TECHNOLOGY CO.,LTD.
Zhejiang, CN
over 10000 m²
ISO 9001 3C CQC
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Blue Jay
Chongqing, CN
Also makes: Protection Relay, Dehumidifier, Alarm System and 5 more
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Cheemi Technology Co. Ltd.
Nanjing, Jiangsu, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
CNC Electric
Zhejiang, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Coilcore
Guangzhou, Guangdong, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Greegoo Electric
Zhejiang, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the function of a current transformer in a circuit breaker trip unit?

The current transformer senses the high current flowing through the main circuit and transforms it into a lower, proportional secondary current. This secondary current is used by the trip unit's electronic circuits to monitor the current level and initiate protective actions, such as tripping the breaker, in case of overcurrent or fault conditions.

What are the typical accuracy classes for current transformers?

Typical accuracy classes include 0.2, 0.5, 1, 3, and 5P20, as per IEC 61869-2. Class 0.2 is used for metering applications where high accuracy is required, while 5P20 is a protection class that ensures the transformer maintains accuracy up to 20 times the rated current. The specific class depends on the application.

How do I select the correct rated primary current for a current transformer?

The rated primary current should be selected based on the maximum load current expected in the circuit. It is recommended to choose a rating that is slightly higher than the maximum continuous load to avoid saturation, but also consider the short-circuit current withstand capability. Refer to the manufacturer's guidelines and the system design.

What standards apply to current transformers?

The primary standard is IEC 61869-2 for current transformers. Additionally, IEC 60085 defines insulation classes, and IEC 60529 specifies degrees of protection (IP ratings). These standards provide requirements for performance, safety, and environmental protection. Always verify compliance with the specific model.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification
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