Outdoor instrument transformers are critical components used to measure and transform high current and high voltage levels down to low current and low voltage values, which are measurable by meters and protections. They are designed specifically for use in outdoor environments, and are made to withstand harsh weather conditions and high levels of electromagnetic interference. To protect against harsh environments, outdoor instrument transformers are typically cast in Cycloaliphatic Epoxy (CEP) and their hardware and baseplates are usually made out of corrosion-resistant materials like aluminium and stainless steel.
One of the key differences between outdoor and indoor transformers is the orientation of the primary terminals. Outdoor units are designed with the primary terminals set-up for cable connections on pole-top installations, whereas indoor transformers are designed to connect to the bus bar in switchgear applications. This design difference allows outdoor instrument transformers to be easily installed in outdoor environments and to operate effectively in harsh weather conditions.
In general, Instrument Transformers play a critical role in ensuring the accurate and safe operation of electrical power systems by providing reliable and accurate measurements of electrical quantities.
Below are some of the common application examples of Outdoor Current & Voltage transformers:
- Transmission and Distribution Networks: Outdoor current and voltage transformers are used in high voltage transmission and distribution networks to measure and transform electrical quantities such as voltage, current, and power. They are used in conjunction with protection relays, which are used to detect and isolate faults in the power system. The use of outdoor current and voltage transformers in transmission and distribution networks helps to ensure the safe and reliable operation of these systems.
- Renewable Energy Systems: Outdoor current and voltage transformers are used in renewable energy systems, such as wind farms and solar power plants, to measure the electrical quantities produced by these systems. This information is used to optimize the performance of the renewable energy system and to ensure that it is operating within safe and efficient parameters.
- Electric Vehicle Charging Stations: Outdoor current and voltage transformers are used in electric vehicle charging stations to measure the electrical quantities involved in the charging process. This information is used to ensure that the charging station is operating safely and efficiently, and to monitor the energy consumption of the charging process.