- August 12, 2021
- Posted by: Dyaneshwar Nirmale
- Category: Digital Meters
Instrument transformers are connected to electrical measuring devices for safety and accuracy in measuring power. However, current transformers and potential transformers differ significantly in their structure and application. The two devices manipulate two different parameters of power
The key difference between current transformer and potential transformer
Application
Steps down current from high levels to around 1A or 5A
Steps down high voltage to a standard secondary voltage of around 100 V or lower.
Connection method
A current transformer is always connected in series to the utility line so that the full current flows through the winding
A potential transformer is always connected in parallel with the circuit, enabling full voltage to be present across the winding.
Winding
The current transformer’s secondary winding has a high number of turns, and it cannot be open-circuited. To find out why a current transformer cannot be open-circuited, read our blog here.
The secondary winding of a potential transformer has a lesser number of turns and can be configured as an open circuit.
Core
The current transformer core is made from iron or silicon steel lamination.
The potential transformer core is made of steel operating at low-flux densities.
Current flow
Current flow in the primary winding of a current transformer does not depend on the conditions of the secondary circuit. Similarly, the current transformer does not rely on the secondary burden.
The primary current flow in potential transformers relies on the current flowing through the secondary circuit, and the potential transformer relies considerably on the secondary burden.
Conclusion
Current transformer and potential transformers are both basically instrument transformers that ensure current and voltage remain within established limits to enable accurate measurement of electrical power and safe working of electrical appliances.
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