1. Product Overview
The Clamp On current transformer series of products manufactured by YuanXing Electronics is a specialized category of inductive sensors that can measure AC current without being in contact with the electrical circuit; In contrast, traditional solid core transformers must be installed by removing the primary conductor from the circuit. Therefore, a clamp on current transformer using a split core construction allows the magnetic core to be opened and closed around a live primary conductor, thus allowing for the rapid installation and use in retrofitting projects, for energy audits, for permanent power monitoring where there are restrictions on shutting down electrical supply to carry out the installation of measuring devices.
2. Mechanical Construction and Material Science
The structural integrity and environmental resilience of the clamp on current transformer are ensured through the use of high-grade engineering thermoplastics. The external housing is constructed from Polypropylene (PP), a material selected for its excellent balance of dielectric properties, thermal stability, and mechanical toughness
- Silicon Steel: Utilized in standard cost-effective models, silicon steel cores provide robust performance for general metering applications where moderate linearity and phase error are acceptable.
- Nickel Alloy Permalloy cores are used for high-precision applications and have high magnetic permeability and a low coercive force. They have excellent linearity, are minimally affected by phase shift, and provide high accuracy even at low primary currents. This makes them well-suited for high-fidelity power quality monitoring.
Ergonomics & Mechanisms: The clamp mechanism is built for durability and ease of operation and includes a reliable latching system designed to ensure proper alignment of the splitting surfaces of the core. It is very important that the air gap between the split core be minimized since an improper alignment of the two surfaces can create a large amount of magnetic reluctance and reduce the accuracy of the clamp on ct. These products are available in six standard sizes to accommodate various conductor sizes, from small electrical circuits to larger feeder type cables.
3. Comprehensive Technical Specifications
The electrical and environmental specifications for the clamp-on current transformer series have been created in accordance with international safety and performance specifications.
- Insulation/Safety: All our clamp-on current transformers are rated for a Voltage Rank of 600V AC when used with insulated conductors making them suitable for use on the majority of low-voltage industrial power distribution systems (typically 480V or 600V). When used with a bare conductor, a conservative 30V AC rating was assigned to the transformers to ensure operator safety.
- Dielectric Strength: These transformers were thoroughly tested and have a Dielectric Strength rating of 2500V AC (RMS) for 1 minute. This high level of electrical insulation protects sensitive electronic circuitry (microcontrollers and ADCs) downstream from the primary line against transient high voltage spikes.
- Insulation Resistance: 1000 MΩ (measured at 500V DC); therefore, no leakage current will affect the accuracy of the measurements and posing a danger to the operator.
- Operating Frequency: the clamp-on current transformers have been designed to have maximum accuracy at standard power frequencies (50 Hz and 60 Hz). Certain models (e.g., LCTC-0250), have been designed with an operating frequency response that ranges from 50 Hz through 1 kHz, allowing the user to measure the harmonic content in non-linear loads.
- Thermal Performance: Transformers can be successfully placed in unconditioned power rooms or outdoor enclosures (depending on IP rating criteria of the enclosure).
- Compliance: The entire product line is also designated By CE marked as an indication of the manufacturer’s assurance of compliance with all applicable EU Health and Safety Regulations and Environmental standards.
4. Detailed Model Analysis and Performance Metrics
The product family is segmented into specific models tailored for different current ranges and physical apertures.
- Series CTC0080N: Designed for compact applications, this model features an 8.0 mm internal diameter (ID). It supports a rated input current range of 1A to 50A. The available turn ratios include 1:1000, 1:2000, and 1:2500, providing flexibility in signal scaling. With a typical burden resistance of ≤50Ω and accuracy classes of 0.1 or 0.2, it is precise enough for sub-metering individual branch circuits.
- Series CTC0130N: Expanding the capacity, this unit offers a 13.0 mm ID and handles currents from 5A to 200A. It maintains high accuracy (Class 0.1/0.2) with a lower secondary burden (≤5Ω), making it suitable for mid-range loads.
- Series CTC0200N: With a 20.0 mm aperture, this model also covers the 5A to 200A range but accommodates conductors with thicker insulation. The elongated form factor (180mm height including leads/handle) facilitates installation in deeper panels.
- Model LCTC-0250: This variant differs by providing a voltage output rather than a current output. With a 100A input, it delivers a standard 0.333V or up to 1.5V output. This internal burden resistor design eliminates the danger of open-circuit high voltages and allows direct interface with voltage-input data loggers. It features a 25.0 mm ID and Class 1.0 accuracy.
- iProbe400: A high-performance solution with a large 40.0 mm ID, capable of measuring 5A to 200A. It emphasizes ease of handling with a plier-like design and achieves Class 0.5 or 1.0 accuracy, suitable for portable power analysis tools.
