Choosing current transformers (CTs)

Monitoring power and energy means measuring both voltage and current at the load’s source. For voltage, you wire directly to the service wiring. For current, however, you use current transformers (CTs).

In the image at right, you see the thinner black wires for measuring voltage and the three CTs around the larger black, red, and blue wires.

WARNING: DANGER. HAZARDOUS VOLTAGE! Direct wiring involves high voltages and must be done by a qualified electrician. See complete wiring diagrams.

CT specs for power & energy monitoring with groov products

Here are the three specifications you need to know to choose CTs suited to the load you’re measuring:

Primary

Inner diameter

Secondary

Primary

The primary or current rating of the CT is specified in amps. To find out the primary you need, look at the circuit breaker or disconnect switch for the load and note the current rating of the load shown on the sticker there.

For example, if the sticker on your load shows 200 A, you would choose a CT with a current rating to meet or exceed that, for example, a CT rated for 250 A.

Inner diameter

The inner diameter size of the CT must be larger than the outside diameter of the load conductor in order to accommodate the wire. However, the CT opening should not be more than twice the wire diameter. Some larger loads have more than one conductor per phase; in that case, make sure both wires will fit.

While you’re checking the inner diameter required, also think about the best type of CT to fit your wires. CTs come in three basic designs.

 

Secondary

The secondary or output signal of the CT is what connects to your groov product. CT output is either current or voltage.

A secondary of 0.333 VAC is recommended, because it is lower cost, safer, and accurate from low to high currents. In addition, you can extend the CT wires if necessary (use the same gauge wire and ensure that the wires are well twisted), and you can parallel the output to other meters. Opto 22 stocks CTs with a 0.333 VAC secondary.

Older CTs may have a current on the secondary, for example 1 A or 5 A. If you use them, be aware that CT wires should be as short as possible, long runs of CT wire can cause errors, and low accuracy can be expected at low currents. Also, they are not as safe to use. For example, a CT with a current output must NEVER be disconnected when the load is powered, and the output must not be paralleled.

Opto 22 groov energy monitoring products can support CTs with a 5 A, 1.0 VAC, or 0.333 VAC secondary.