Current sense transformers are a key component of power supply systems, delivering precise measurements and monitoring of electrical currents and safety circuits. As a leading manufacturer of electronic components, MPS Industries, Inc. specializes in current sensors, inductors, filters, power supplies, common mode chokes, and transformers. Our broad product line meets the unique demands of a diverse range of industrial applications, including medical, automotive, aerospace, military, consumer electronics, and telecommunications.
Keep reading to learn more about the operating principles of current sense transformers and how they can be optimized according to application-specific requirements.
Operating Principles of Current Sense Transformers
A current sense transformer uses electromagnetic induction to step down high primary currents to a lower current. This enables precise current measurement for monitoring and safety circuits and is considered the safest and most convenient method for detecting, controlling, and monitoring electrical current flow.
With many of today’s products and services controlled by electronics, current sense transformers are growing in popularity for use in complex industrial applications. They can effectively monitor and measure electronic products to ensure smooth operation, serving as a critical component in electronic functionality and design.
Key Parameters for Customization
MPS Industries, Inc. offers two different types of current sense transformers: split core and toroidal. Customization can be especially useful for integrating your transformer into an existing installation, or for providing enhanced performance and efficiency in specific operating conditions. However, there are some specific factors that should be considered to ensure optimal performance.
Current Rating
The current rating is the maximum amount of continuous current the transformer is capable of handling before overheating occurs. Options range from milliamps to hundreds of amperes to meet varying application requirements.
Physical Form and Mounting
Mounting methods depend on the physical form of the transformers and the specific demands of the application, such as unit placement, PCB layout considerations, shielding, and calibration. Current sense transformers from MPS Industries are available in several different physical forms, including:
- Compact
- Surface-mount (for printed circuit boards)
- Split-core (for high-current industrial applications)
Turns Ratio and Output Signal
A higher turns ratio provides higher resolution and a larger output voltage for a given current, while a lower turns ratio draws less current from the primary circuit. When lower inductance occurs, the output signal can drop or distort, causing measurement inaccuracies and an unstable control circuit.
Saturation
Saturation refers to the point where the magnetic flux of the core can no longer increase, leading to distorted waveforms and inaccurate measurements. Using a current transformer with the right core size, turns ratio, and avoiding overexcitation helps prevent saturation.
Applications in Power Monitoring, Metering, and Control Systems
MPS Industries can provide standard and custom current transformers to support a range of applications in the energy and industrial control sectors:
- Current measurement in control systems. Enable precise current and voltage feedback loops in industrial and automation equipment.
- Electrical monitoring. Used for data collection on current, power quality, and load balancing across power distribution networks.
- Electronic lighting ballasts. Allow for efficient power conversion and control in commercial and industrial lighting systems.
- Energy and sub-metering products. Enable highly accurate energy consumption measurement and billing in commercial, industrial, and residential settings.
- GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter). Used for fault detection by sensing small current imbalances to ensure electrical safety.
- Green initiatives. Suitable for components in systems focused on energy efficiency, such as high-efficiency motor drives and smart grid applications.
- Instruments. Used for providing accurate and isolated current signals for various test, measurement, and diagnostic equipment.
- Motor control. Monitor motor current to detect overloads, prevent damage, and optimize performance in variable-speed drives (VFDs).
- Network equipment. Used for isolation and current sensing in power supplies and components for telecommunications and data network infrastructure.
- Sensors. Act as the core component in current sensing solutions to provide isolated data to microcontrollers and control circuits.
MPS Industries, Inc. offers a broad range of current sense transformers that feature extremely high levels of accuracy, RoHS compliance, and state-of-the-art technology. Many current transformers can be optimized with specific end uses in mind to meet the unique challenges of electronic monitoring and deliver accurate and effective measurements.
MPS Industries, Inc. Is a Leading Provider of Current Sense Transformers
MPS Industries, Inc. offers a wide selection of products that ensure the seamless operation of highly sensitive equipment and instruments for a diverse range of industrial applications. Many models can be customized to meet specific application needs, delivering unsurpassed quality, performance, and reliability. To provide seamless solutions for our customers, we offer local U.S.-based manufacturing support, overseas shipping and production, and unparalleled quality products and services.
Request a quote today to learn how our current sense transformers can meet the unique demands of your application.