Application Note

Bushing Current Transformers

Author
Thomas Bischof | [email protected]
Lukas Klingenschmid | [email protected]

Date
June 18th, 2019

Related OMICRON Product

CT Analyzer

Application Area
Instrument Transformers, Power Transformers

Keywords
Bushing Current Transformer, CT, BCT

Version
v1.0

Document ID
ANP_19003_ENU

Abstract
The following Application Note gives an overview of accuracy measurements on current transformers
(CT) which are built into a transformer (bushing CT). Depending on the location of the CT within the
transformer, the measurement setup and the settings of the “delta compensation factor” must be done
correctly. This document explains how to apply these settings for different cases and gives
recommendations for performing an accuracy measurement with the CT Analyzer.
 General information

OMICRON electronics GmbH, including all international branch offices, is henceforth referred to as
OMICRON.
The product information, specifications, and technical data embodied in this Application Note
represent the technical status at the time of writing and are subject to change without prior notice.
We have done our best to ensure that the information given in this Application Note is useful, accurate
and entirely reliable. However, OMICRON does not assume responsibility for any inaccuracies which
may be present.
OMICRON translates this Application Note from the source language English into a number of other
languages. Any translation of this document is undertaken for local requirements, and in the event of
a dispute between the English and a non-English version, the English version of this note shall
govern.

All rights, including translation, reserved. Reproduction of any kind, for example, photocopying,
microfilming, optical character recognition, and/or storage in electronic data processing systems,
requires the explicit consent of OMICRON. Reprinting, wholly or partly, is not permitted.
© OMICRON 2019. All rights reserved. This Application Note is a publication of OMICRON.

© OMICRON 2019 Page 2 of 48

 Table of contents

1 Safety instructions ......................................................................................................................... 5

2 Using this document ...................................................................................................................... 6
2.1 Operator qualifications and safety standards .......................................................................... 6
2.2 Safety measures ...................................................................................................................... 6
2.3 Related documents .................................................................................................................. 6
2.4 Safety rules .............................................................................................................................. 7
2.5 Used symbols .......................................................................................................................... 7
3 Safety instructions for connecting the CT Analyzer to the test setup ...................................... 8
3.1 Before starting ......................................................................................................................... 8
4 Bushing current transformers ....................................................................................................... 9
4.1 Impact of residual magnetism on saturation ............................................................................ 9
4.2 Demagnetization of CT core with operating current .............................................................. 11
5 Ratio measurement of CTs .......................................................................................................... 14
6 Measurement with CT Analyzer .................................................................................................. 16
6.1 Turns ratio error ..................................................................................................................... 17
6.2 Ratio error .............................................................................................................................. 18
7 Ratio measurement of bushing CTs ........................................................................................... 19
7.1 CT in delta winding ................................................................................................................ 20
7.1.1 CT outside of the delta winding ................................................................................................ 20
7.1.2 CT inside the Delta Winding .................................................................................................... 20
8 Ratio Correction Factor ............................................................................................................... 21
8.1 Setting of the delta compensation ......................................................................................... 21
8.2 General voltage divider .......................................................................................................... 22
8.3 Transformer equivalent circuit diagram ................................................................................. 23
8.4 Delta compensation 1/3 ......................................................................................................... 24
8.5 Delta compensation 2/3 ......................................................................................................... 24
8.6 Delta compensation 1 ............................................................................................................ 25
9 Influences on the measurement setup ....................................................................................... 27
9.1 Power transformer impedance .............................................................................................. 27
9.2 Transformer tap changer ....................................................................................................... 28
9.2.1 Linear selector ......................................................................................................................... 29
9.2.2 Single reversing change-over selector ..................................................................................... 29
9.2.3 Single coarse change-over selector ......................................................................................... 30
9.3 CTs not under test in power transformer ............................................................................... 30
10 Autotransformer – tap changer and short-circuit lead ............................................................. 32
11 Connection diagrams ................................................................................................................... 33
12 Appendix ....................................................................................................................................... 42

© OMICRON 2019 Page 3 of 48

 12.1 Finding the interrelated windings of the other voltage level .................................................. 42
12.1.1 Example YNd5 ......................................................................................................................... 43
12.1.2 Example Dyn11........................................................................................................................ 44
12.2 Special application: Railway transformer............................................................................... 45
13 Literature ....................................................................................................................................... 47

© OMICRON 2019 Page 4 of 48

1 Safety instructions
This Application Note may only be used in combination with the relevant product manuals which
contain all safety instructions. The user is fully responsible for any application that makes use of
OMICRON products.
Instructions are always characterized by a  symbol even if they are included in a safety instruction.

DANGER
Death or severe injury caused by high voltage or current if the respective
protective measures are not complied with.

 Carefully read the content of this instruction as well as the manuals of

the involved devices before taking them into operation.
 Contact OMICRON Support if you have any questions or doubts
regarding the safety or operating instructions.
 Follow the instructions listed in the manuals, especially the safety
instructions, since this is the only way to avoid danger that can occur
when working on high voltage or high current systems.
 Only use the involved equipment according to its intended purpose to
guarantee safe operation.
 Existing national safety standards for accident prevention and
environmental protection may supplement the equipment’s manual.

Only experienced and competent professionals who are trained for working in high voltage or high
current environments may perform this Application Note. Additionally, the following qualifications are
required:
• Authorized to work in environments of energy generation, transmission or distribution and
familiar with the approved operating practices in such environments.
• Familiar with the five safety rules.
• Good knowledge of the CT Analyzer.

© OMICRON 2019 Page 5 of 48

2 Using this document
Reading the ANP_19003_ENU Application Note alone does not release you from the duty of
complying with all national and international safety regulations relevant to working with the CT
Analyzer.

2.1 Operator qualifications and safety standards

Working on HV devices is extremely dangerous. Measurements must be carried out only by qualified,
skilled and authorized personnel. Before starting any work, clearly establish the responsibilities.
Personnel receiving training, instructions, directions, or education on the measurement setup must be
under constant supervision of an experienced operator while working with the equipment.

The operator is responsible for the safety requirements during the whole test. Before performing tests
using high voltage, read the following:
• Do not perform any test without having carefully read the CT Analyzer User Manual.

• Read in particular all safety instructions and follow them.

• Do not use the test equipment without a good connection to ground.

The measurement must comply with the relevant national and international safety standards listed
below:

• EN 50191 (VDE 0104) "Erection and Operation of Electrical Equipment".

• EN 50110-1 (VDE 0105 Part 100) "Operation of Electrical Installations".

• IEEE 510 "Recommended Practices for Safety in High-Voltage and High-Power Testing".

• LAPG 1710.6 NASA "Electrical Safety".

Moreover, additional relevant laws and internal safety standards must be followed.

2.2 Safety measures

Before starting a measurement, read the safety rules in the CT Analyzer User Manual and observe
the application-specific safety instructions in this Application Note when performing measurements to
protect yourself from high-voltage hazards.

2.3 Related documents

Title Description
Provides information on the CT Analyzer test system and relevant safety
CT Analyzer User Manual
instructions.

Instrument transformers – Part 2: Additional requirements for current

IEC 61869-2
transformers.

IEEE Std C57.13 IEEE Standard Requirements for instrument transformers.

© OMICRON 2019 Page 6 of 48

2.4 Safety rules

Before starting a measurement, read the safety rules in the CT Analyzer User Manual carefully and
observe the application-specific safety instructions in this Application Note when performing
measurements to protect yourself from high-voltage hazards.
General
Always observe the five safety rules:

• Disconnect completely.
• Secure against re-connection.
• Verify that the installation is dead.
• Carry out grounding and short-circuiting.
• Provide protection against adjacent live parts.

CAUTION
Minor or moderate injury may occur if the appropriate safety instructions are not
observed.

 Caution: Never touch any terminal without a visible ground connection!

2.5 Used symbols

DANGER
Death or severe injury will occur if the appropriate safety instructions are
not observed.

WARNING
Death or severe injury can occur if the appropriate safety instructions are
not observed.

CAUTION
Minor or moderate injury may occur if the appropriate safety instructions
are not observed.

NOTICE

Equipment damage or loss of data possible.

© OMICRON 2019 Page 7 of 48

3 Safety instructions for connecting the CT Analyzer to the
test setup

3.1 Before starting

DANGER
Death or severe injury will occur if the appropriate safety instructions are not
observed.

 Do not enter the high-voltage area while working with the CT Analyzer.
 Do not enter the high-voltage area if the red warning light of the CT Analyzer
is on since all outputs carry dangerous voltages and currents.
 Never touch any terminal without a visible ground connection.
 The transformer needs to be disconnected from the line.
 Always obey the five safety rules and follow the detailed safety instructions in
the respective user manuals.
 Always establish a proper ground connection for the CT Analyzer and the
device under test (for example, transformer, resistor or capacitor).
 Beware of nearby parallel systems which are not disconnected. They can
induce hazardous loads in floating segments of a substation.
 Always touch the leads and terminals with a grounding hook first.

© OMICRON 2019 Page 8 of 48

4 Bushing current transformers
Bushing current transformers (BCTs or CTs) are window type CTs which are placed around the power
transformer bushing. The CT can be mounted inside or outside of the power transformer. Figure 1
shows a power transformer where the CTs are located either in the bushing or in the power
transformer winding.

Figure 1 – Power transformer

To verify the correct functionality of a CT, among other things, the accuracy must be measured.
Protection CTs are required on the one hand to protect the power transformer in case of high fault
currents and on the other hand to recognize internal faults of the power transformer using differential
protection. Therefore, the accuracy and the saturation characteristics of the CT is important to ensure
a flawlessly working protection system. A pre-magnetized core can lead to malfunction of protection
devices. It can occur during operating conditions or during test conditions whenever the CT is
exposed to a direct current. During operating conditions remanent flux can remain in the core when a
fault current was interrupted and the magnetic flux in the core was high. It is called residual
magnetism or remanent flux. The following chapters 4.1 and 4.2 explain the impact of the residual
magnetism and the importance of demagnetization of a CT.

4.1 Impact of residual magnetism on saturation

The hysteresis curve in Figure 2 explains the different stages during one iteration of the loop and
does not consider a residual flux. That is why the loop is symmetrical. The hysteresis loop in Figure 3
considers a certain residual flux which results in an unsymmetrical loop and drives the core into
saturation much faster. The effect on the resulting secondary current I s can also be derived from the
hysteresis loop. In case of saturation, the vertical expansion (flux density ΔB of the core) of the loop
gets smaller. The flux density ΔB is directly linked, physically, with the secondary current Is according
to equation (1).

© OMICRON 2019 Page 9 of 48

 The flux density linked with the secondary current is shown in equation (1):

∆𝐵
𝑈𝑐𝑜𝑟𝑒 ~ 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐼𝑠 ~ 𝑈𝑐𝑜𝑟𝑒 (1)
∆𝑡
Table 1: Terminology - Equation (1)
Ucore Voltage drop across the core IS Secondary Current
ΔB/Δt Flux density of the core over time

Figure 2 - Hysteresis loop without residual flux

Table 2: Caption Figure 2

a – Saturation d - Saturation in opposite direction

Core material is magnetized to saturation.

b - Remanence e - Remanence
Core material is still magnetized, although
the magnetic field is zero.

c - Coercive Force f - Coercive Force

The magnetic field needs to be reversed to
drive the magnetization (flux density) to zero.

The residual magnetism affects a CT’s performance during a fault. It can lead to a shift of the
operating point, mal- or hyper-function of protection relays, or misinterpretation of the system current.
The residual magnetism depends, among other things, on the secondary impedance of the CT, the
amplitude and offset of the primary current (transient), and the time constant. The highest residual flux
can be expected when the primary current is interrupted during core saturation.
Current transformers with residual magnetism, once energized, will have residual flux anywhere
between zero and the saturation value as shown in Figure 3.

© OMICRON 2019 Page 10 of 48

 Figure 3 - Hysteresis loop with residual flux

The residual flux can be measured by the CT Analyzer. Figure 4 and Figure 5 show an exemplary
measurement result of the residual magnetism in percentage and the remaining residual flux in Volt-
Seconds (Vs) before and after demagnetization.

Figure 4 - Measurement of Residual Magnetism with CT Analyzer before demagnetization

Figure 5 - Measurement of Residual Magnetism with CT Analyzer after demagnetization

4.2 Demagnetization of CT core with operating current

In operating conditions, a transient fault current - with a direct current (IDC) and alternating current (IAC)
component - pre-magnetizes the CT with the DC component and will result in a residual magnetism of
the core. Figure 6 shows an example transient fault current with a line frequency of 50 Hz. The DC
component decreases with the primary time constant Tp until the steady state is reached.

© OMICRON 2019 Page 11 of 48

 Figure 6 - Example transient fault current (f = 50 Hz, Tp = 50 ms, fault inception angle at 90°)

During test conditions (for example, winding resistance test) a direct current is used. Figure 7 shows
the time signal of the current IDC, voltage UDC, and winding resistance RCT. After a certain time, the
resistance value becomes stable. This measurement will result in a residual magnetism of the core
due to the direct current.

Figure 7 – Instantaneous values of the winding resistance test

When going back into normal operation without demagnetization, the change in flux will start to form
the residual magnetism (magnetic flux). One part of the cycle will find the CT core in the direction
where the magnetic flux is further increased, and the core may saturate. This will require a high
excitation current and distort the secondary current of the CT. In normal operation, the required DC
offset for the residual flux is not delivered. Therefore, the hysteresis loop is shifted to a symmetric
position somewhere between zero and the saturation flux, as long as there are no load changes or
fault events. Figure 8 shows that the residual magnetism in the core remains at a certain level after
the CT has been exposed with the nominal current for some cycles.

© OMICRON 2019 Page 12 of 48

 Figure 8 - Reduction of the residual magnetism when applying nominal current [1]

A demagnetization of the current transformer is required after a fault event or a measurement while
the CT was exposed to a direct current to remove the residual flux in the CT core.

© OMICRON 2019 Page 13 of 48

5 Ratio measurement of CTs
There are different possibilities to measure the accuracy of a current transformer.
• Nominal primary current injection.
• Primary current injection.
• Voltage measurement.

The ratio of a CT can be measured by a primary current injection or by applying a voltage on the
secondary side.
In many cases, the primary current injection method cannot be used because the impedance of the
transformer winding is too high to drive the current (for example, using CPC 100). In this case, a test
device with higher power is necessary. For onsite measurement and commissioning, bulky test
equipment is not very helpful. Therefore, the ratio is often measured by injecting a voltage on the
secondary side of the CT and measuring the primary voltage. This can be done with the CPC 100 by
using the 2 kV output and the measurement input V2 AC (see Figure 9).

Figure 9 - Setup for testing the voltage ratio with the CPC 100

Ratio measurement with secondary voltage injection:

𝐼𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑚,𝑛𝑜𝑚
𝐼𝑠𝑒𝑐,𝑎𝑐𝑡 = 𝑉𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑚,𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑠 ∗ (2)
𝑉𝑠𝑒𝑐,𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑠

Table 3: Terminology – Equation (2)

Iprim,nom Specified primary current nameplate value Isec,act Calculated secondary current value
Vprim,meas Measured primary voltage Vsec,meas Measured secondary voltage
Ratio error in percentage:

𝑁𝑟 ∗ 𝑉𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑚,𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑠 − 𝑉𝑠𝑒𝑐,𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑠
𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑒𝑟𝑟 = ∗ 100 (3)
𝑉𝑠𝑒𝑐,𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑠

Table 4: Terminology – Equation (3)

Vprim,meas Measured primary voltage Vsec,meas Measured secondary voltage
Nr Rated CT ratio Ratioerr Calculated ratio error

© OMICRON 2019 Page 14 of 48

 NOTICE
If the transformer’s knee point voltage is approximated or exceeded due to the transformer’s
saturation, the measurement results will not be correct. If the knee point is extensively exceeded,
the transformer can even be damaged. Therefore, the knee point voltage should be known or
measured beforehand.
 Recommendation: Set the test voltage to 75 % of the knee point voltage.
 The frequency should be set between 15 to 20 Hz above the line frequency to avoid
interferences by live systems in the neighbourhood. The voltage ratio is independent, up to
approximately 100 Hz.

The CT Analyzer uses the secondary-voltage method to determine the characteristics of the CT (see
IEC 61869-2, Appendix 2E). The ratio accuracy measurement is done by applying a low voltage,
respectively a current signal to the secondary side and measuring the primary voltage. The advantage
of using the CT Analyzer is the high accuracy and the assessment according to the required standard.
Therefore, it is more applicable to use the CT Analyzer for bushing CTs in order to ensure that, on the
one hand the CT is automatically demagnetized after the [CT] test, and on the other hand the
accuracy of the CT is determined.
Advantages of using CT Analyzer:
• Automatic class assessment according to the standard (IEC 61869-2 and IEEE C57.13).
• Automatic demagnetization of the CT.
• Results:
o Residual flux (requires an additional licence).
o Secondary winding resistance.
o Excitation curve.
o Ratio error and phase displacement depending on the burden.
o Derived parameters (e.g. Ktd, KSSC, ALF, FS etc.).
• High accuracy (possible to measure and assess class 0.1 CTs)
The residual flux measurement requires an additional license (RemAlyzer,
order number: VESM0657). With RemAlyzer, the residual magnetic flux is measured as it is. This test
is performed before all the other tests because any test which follows influences the initial
magnetization state (residual flux) in the core.

© OMICRON 2019 Page 15 of 48

6 Measurement with CT Analyzer
The CT Analyzer uses a modelling approach to assess the current transformer (CT) according to the
used standard (IEC or IEEE). The following measurements are required for the assessment:
• Secondary winding resistance (Figure 10, number 1).
• Excitation curve (Figure 10, number 2).
• Turns ratio (Figure 10, number 3).

When the parameters from the modelling approach are known, the ratio error and the phase
displacement can be calculated at defined burden values (Figure 10, number 4).

Figure 10 – Modelling approach of a CT

Table 5: Terminology - Figure 10

Np Number of primary turns RH Hysteresis losses
Ns Number of secondary turns Lm Core main inductance
Ip Primary current Reddy Eddy resistance
I’p Primary current referred to the RCT Secondary winding resistance
secondary side
Is Secondary current VRCT Voltage drop across RCT
Iexc Excitation current Vcore Voltage drop across the core
IE Eddy current ZB Burden impedance

© OMICRON 2019 Page 16 of 48

6.1 Turns ratio error

A sinusoidal voltage (VAC) is applied to the secondary side of the current transformer and measured
on the primary (Vprim) side. The turns ratio is calculated by considering the voltage drop across the
winding resistance (VRCT).

Figure 11 - Turns ratio measurement

The calculation of the turns ratio is shown in equation (4):

N𝑠 𝑉𝑐𝑜𝑟𝑒
𝑁𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑠 = = (4)
N𝑝 𝑉𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑚

Table 6: Terminology – Equation (4)

Nmeas Measured turns Vprim Measured primary voltage
Np Number of primary windings Vcore Measured core voltage
Ns Number of secondary windings

From the measured turns of the CT in equation (4), the turns ratio error εt can be calculated according
to IEC 60044-1 by equation (5).
Calculation of turns ratio error according to IEC 60044-1:

𝐼𝑝𝑛
𝑁𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑠 −
𝐼𝑠𝑛
𝜀𝑡 = ∗ 100 (5)
𝐼𝑝𝑛
𝐼𝑠𝑛

Table 7: Terminology – Equation (5)

εt Turns ratio error in % Isn Nominal secondary current
Ipn Nominal primary current Nmeas Measured turns

© OMICRON 2019 Page 17 of 48

6.2 Ratio error

The current ratio error is determined by equations (6) and (7).

Calculation of the current ratio error:

𝐼𝑝
𝐼𝑠 −
𝑁𝑟
ε= (6)
𝐼𝑝
𝑁𝑟

Table 8: Terminology – Equation (6)

Ip Primary current Nr Nominal turns ratio (Ipn/Isn)
Is Secondary current ε Current ratio error

The calculation of the primary current Ip in equation (6) at a defined burden under consideration of the
core losses is done according to equation (7):

𝐼𝑝 = 𝑁𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑠 ∗ (𝐼𝑒𝑥𝑐 + 𝐼𝑠 ) (7)

Table 9: Terminology – Equation (7)

Is Secondary current Nmeas Measured turns ratio
Ip Primary current Iexc Excitation current

The Ratio Error is also called Current Error or Current Ratio Error and is used for the ratio error graph,
respectively the phase displacement graph in the report (see Figure 12). For calculating the Ratio
Error a secondary burden is simulated in the CT model (see Figure 10, burden ZB). Depending on the
standard and class of the CT, this error is used for the assessment of the CT.

Figure 12 – Exemplary ratio error and phase displacement graph, red curve shows the limit according to the used standard and
class

© OMICRON 2019 Page 18 of 48

7 Ratio measurement of bushing CTs
To determine the measured turns as defined in equation (4) with the voltage method, the voltage Vsec
is applied to the secondary winding of the CT and measured on the primary side of the CT. When
measuring bushing CTs it is not possible to measure the voltage drop across the CT (V prim), because
it is not accessible. The only way is to measure the voltage drop Vmeas across the bushing, in this case
H1 to H0. When the measurement input of the testing device is higher than the transformer winding
impedance, the voltage Vmeas approximately equals Vprim - see equation (8).
Measured turns of the bushing CT:

𝑉𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑠 𝑉𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑚
𝑁𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒𝑑 = =
̃ (8)
𝑉𝑠𝑒𝑐 𝑉𝑠𝑒𝑐

Figure 13 shows voltages in a transformer star winding which are used in equation (8).

Figure 13 - Bushing CT in a transformer star winding

© OMICRON 2019 Page 19 of 48

7.1 CT in delta winding

The CT can be mounted inside or outside of a delta winding. This can cause increased errors in the
ratio measurement and misinterpretation of the results because the principal of the measurement is
not well known. For example, a wrong connection setup will result in a wrong ratio measurement. The
principal of the ratio measurement in delta windings is explained in this chapter.

7.1.1 CT outside of the delta winding

For CTs which are mounted outside of the delta winding, no delta compensation factor needs to be
considered. In this case, the impedance of the measurement input is much higher than the
transformer winding impedance Zmag.
Figure 14 shows a CT outside of the delta winding.

Figure 14 - Bushing CT outside of the transformer delta winding

7.1.2 CT inside the Delta Winding

For CTs mounted inside the delta winding, a delta compensation factor must be considered
depending on where the primary voltage is measured and if the opposite winding is shorted or not.
Chapter 8 explains the correction factor in more detail.
Figure 15 shows a CT inside the delta winding:

Figure 15 - Bushing CT inside the transformer delta winding

© OMICRON 2019 Page 20 of 48

8 Ratio Correction Factor
Depending on the location of the CT inside the delta winding and on where the primary voltage is
measured, a ratio correction factor must be considered. The ratio correction factor is called delta
compensation. The factors are 1, 1/3 and 2/3 and can be set on the device or in the CT Analyzer
Suite (see chapter 8.1 ).
Chapters 8.2 - 8.6 explain how to derive the ratio correction factors (delta compensation).

8.1 Setting of the delta compensation

The delta compensation can be set on the CT Analyzer device (Figure 16) or in the CT Analyzer Suite
(Figure 17).
CT Analyzer device
The setting is done in the card CT-Object as shown in Figure 16.

Figure 16 - Setting of the delta compensation on the CT Analyzer device

CT Analyzer Suite
The setting is done in the section Test configuration as shown in Figure 17.

Figure 17 - Setting of the delta compensation in the CT Analyzer Suite

© OMICRON 2019 Page 21 of 48

8.2 General voltage divider

The following chapter introduces the principal of a voltage divider for a better understanding of the
delta compensation. Figure 18 and Figure 19 show a simplified circuit diagram of a transformer delta
winding. The impedance Zmag represents the transformer winding of each phase in a delta winding.
The voltage source is named Vprim. Depending on where the voltage drop Vout is measured, equation
(9) or equation (10) is used.

Figure 18 - General circuit diagram - three impedances in series, voltage drop Vout across one impedance Z

Formula (9) shows the relationship between Vout and Vprim where the voltage drop Vout is across one
impedance Zmag (see Figure 18).

𝑉𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑍𝑚𝑎𝑔 𝑍𝑚𝑎𝑔 1

= = = (9)
𝑉𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑚 𝑍𝑚𝑎𝑔 + 𝑍𝑚𝑎𝑔 + 𝑍𝑚𝑎𝑔 3 ∗ 𝑍𝑚𝑎𝑔 3

Figure 19 - General circuit diagram - three impedances in series, voltage drop Vout across two impedances Z

Formula (10) shows the relationship between Vout and Vprim where the voltage drop Vout is across two
impedances Zmag (see Figure 19).

𝑉𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑍𝑚𝑎𝑔 + 𝑍𝑚𝑎𝑔 2 ∗ 𝑍𝑚𝑎𝑔 2

= = = (10)
𝑉𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑚 𝑍𝑚𝑎𝑔 + 𝑍𝑚𝑎𝑔 + 𝑍𝑚𝑎𝑔 3 ∗ 𝑍𝑚𝑎𝑔 3

The derived factors are necessary for measuring bushing CTs with the CT Analyzer. Chapters 8.3 -
8.6 explain different cases for measuring a CT located in a delta winding. Depending on the
measurement setup, a specific delta compensation has to be considered.

© OMICRON 2019 Page 22 of 48

8.3 Transformer equivalent circuit diagram

In no-load conditions (open-circuit), the secondary current of the transformer is zero (see Figure 20).
This means that the primary current Ip equals the excitation current Iexc. The resistance of the iron core
RFe is much higher than the primary winding resistance R1 and the main impedance Xm (Lm) is much
higher than the primary leakage inductance Xσ1. Therefore, the electrical circuit model can be
simplified by the magnetizing impedance Z’mag (see Figure 21).

Figure 20 – Open-circuit condition of a transformer

Table 10: Terminology - Figure 20

R1, R’2 Winding resistance Lm Main inductance of the iron core
Xσ1, X’σ2 Leakage inductance RFe Resistance of the iron core
Np:Ns Turns ratio Ip Primary current
Is Secondary current Iexc Excitation Current
Z’mag Core impedance

Figure 21 shows the simplified model of a power transformer with the impedance Z’mag refered to the
primary side.

Figure 21 - Simplified circuit diagram of a transformer in open-circuit condition

© OMICRON 2019 Page 23 of 48

8.4 Delta compensation 1/3

If the measured primary voltage Vmeas is in the adjacent leg to the CT’s location, a correction factor of
1/3 has to be used (equation (13)). Figure 22 shows the circuit diagram.

Figure 22 - Measured primary voltage in the adjacent leg to the CT’s location

The calculation of the correction factor 1/3 is derived from equations (11), (12) and (13).

𝑉𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑠 = 𝑉𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑚 − 𝑉𝑜𝑢𝑡 (11)

2
𝑉𝑜𝑢𝑡 = ∗𝑉 (12)
3 𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑚

2 1
𝑉𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑠 = 𝑉𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑚 − ∗𝑉 = ∗𝑉 (13)
3 𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑚 3 𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑚

8.5 Delta compensation 2/3

If the measured primary voltage Vmeas is in the same leg as the CT’s location, a correction factor of 2/3
must be used. Figure 23 shows the equivalent circuit diagram.

Figure 23 - Measured primary voltage is in the same leg as the CT’s location

The calculation of the correction factor 2/3 is derived from equations (14), (15) and (16).

© OMICRON 2019 Page 24 of 48

 𝑉𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑠 = 𝑉𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑚 − 𝑉𝑜𝑢𝑡 (14)

1
𝑉𝑜𝑢𝑡 = ∗𝑉 (15)
3 𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑚

1 2
𝑉𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑠 = 𝑉𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑚 − ∗𝑉 = ∗𝑉 (16)
3 𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑚 3 𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑚

8.6 Delta compensation 1

In this case, the measured primary voltage Vmeas is in the same leg as the CT, and the opposite
transformer winding is shorted.
If the power transformer winding is shorted, no compensation is necessary. The reason can be
derived from the equivalent circuit diagram of the power transformer (see Figure 24).
In short-circuit conditions the magnetizing impedance becomes close to zero and only the length
impedance Z’mag,shorted dominates.

Figure 24- Short-circuit condition of a power transformer

Table 11: Terminology - Figure 24

R1, R’2 Winding resistance Lm Main inductance of the iron core
Xσ1, X’σ2 Leakage inductance RFe Resistance of the iron core
Ip Primary current Is Secondary current
Iexc Excitation current Np:Ns Turns ratio
Z’mag_shorted Length impedance
The circuit diagram of the power transformer can be simplified by the impedance Z’mag,shorted (see
Figure 25).

Figure 25 - Simplified circuit diagram of a power transformer in a short-circuit condition

© OMICRON 2019 Page 25 of 48

 Figure 26 shows the principal measurement setup on a power transformer with Dy-vector group
where no delta compensation is necessary (equation (21)). By shorting the same limb as the CT’s
location, the CT Analyzer can pick up the true induced primary voltage of the CT which allows an
accurate measurement of the turns ratio.

Figure 26 – Short-circuit of the same limb as the CT’s location: No compensation factor

The calculation of the relationship between Vout and Vprim and the compensation factor is done by
equations (17) and (18).

𝑉𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑠 = 𝑉𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑚 − 𝑉𝑜𝑢𝑡 (17)

𝑉𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑍𝑚𝑎𝑔,𝑠ℎ𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑒𝑑 (18)

=
𝑉𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑚 2 ∗ 𝑍𝑚𝑎𝑔 + 𝑍𝑚𝑎𝑔,𝑠ℎ𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑒𝑑

The impedance Zmag is much higher than the impedance Zmag,shorted (see Equation (19)). Therefore, the
voltage Vout becomes close to zero (see equation (20)).

𝑍𝑚𝑎𝑔 ≫ 𝑍𝑚𝑎𝑔,𝑠ℎ𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑒𝑑 (19)

𝑍𝑚𝑎𝑔,𝑠ℎ𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑒𝑑
𝑉𝑜𝑢𝑡 = ∗𝑉 → 𝑉𝑜𝑢𝑡 ≅ 0 (20)
2 ∗ 𝑍𝑚𝑎𝑔 + 𝑍𝑚𝑎𝑔,𝑠ℎ𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑚

𝑉𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑠 = 𝑉𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑚 − 0 = 1 ∗ 𝑉𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑠 (21)

The result of equation (20) is inserted into equation (17) and results in a delta compensation of 1 (see
equation (21)).

NOTICE
 Measuring a CT in a delta winding
o Measurement is done at the same leg as the CT’s location (in this case H1-H2, see
Figure 26).
o For more details on how to find the interrelated winding see chapter 12.1

© OMICRON 2019 Page 26 of 48

9 Influences on the measurement setup

9.1 Power transformer impedance

In some cases, the power transformer impedance Zmag is higher than the PRIM input impedance (330
kΩ) of the CT Analyzer. A high impedance Zmag is caused, among other things, by many windings or a
great deal of core material. This will distort the turns ratio result.
To reduce the impedance Zmag, the secondary side of the power transformer is shorted. The short
circuit acts as a magnetic short circuit and reduces the overall impedance Zmag. As mentioned in
Chapter 8, it is important that the input impedance of the CT Analyzer is higher than the impedance
Zmag, because then the measured voltage Vmeas approximately equals the primary voltage of the CT
(Vprim).
The picture below shows an example measurement setup on a transformer with the YNy vector
group. The CT under test is located in the bushing H1.
Connection
• Power Transformer Primary Side:
Connect PRIM input of CT Analyzer to the bushing H1/H2/H3 – N
• Power Transformer Secondary Side:
Short circuit (orange line)

Figure 27 - Example measurement setup: Transformer YNy0, Bushing CT in H1

© OMICRON 2019 Page 27 of 48

9.2 Transformer tap changer

Depending on the tap position of the tap changer, the turns ratio measurement can be influenced.
The tap position should be switched to the position where the transformer winding and the winding of
the tap changer have the lowest impedance value.
Figure 28 displays the active winding in blue, which is either on tap position 1, where the impedance
of the measurement circuit has the lowest possible value or on position 5, where the full winding is
active, resulting in the highest possible impedance value for this tap changer.
In either case, the transformer winding and the tap changer winding will cause an additional voltage
drop across the winding, which can negatively influence the voltage measurement.
For a tap changer, such as that displayed in Figure 28, the tap changer position should be switched to
position 1 when testing bushing CTs.
Tap Position 1: Low Impedance Tap Position 5: High
Impedance

Figure 28 - Transformer tap changer position 1 (left picture) tap changer position 5 (right picture)

© OMICRON 2019 Page 28 of 48

 NOTICE
 The tap changer position is only of interest when the bushing CT is located at a winding
where a tap changer is also installed.
o Example: When the tap changer is located on the primary side and the bushing CT
is installed on the secondary side, the tap changer position is of no interest
 The tap changer characteristics must be known.
o The exact type of tap changer must be known as it holds information about the
selector type used.
 The tap position with the lowest impedance value depends on the tap changer type.
 Impedance values of the tap changer can be obtained from:
o FAT report (factory acceptance test report).
o Previous test data.
o Transformer nameplate (Winding diagram).
o Performing a winding resistance or DRM/OLTC test.

The following sub-chapters (9.2.1 ,9.2.2 9.2.3 ) cover some basic information about the various tap
selector concepts as well as typical winding resistance curves over the tap changer position.

9.2.1 Linear selector

In the linear arrangement, the number of taps equals the number of tap positions, and turns are
added in series to change the transformer ratio. The rated position can be any of the tap positions.
Figure 29 shows a schematic of the linear selector arrangement and the winding resistance for
different tap positions.

Figure 29: Linear selector schematic (left) and winding resistance results (right)

9.2.2 Single reversing change-over selector

A (single) reversing change-over selector doubles the number of tap positions by reversing the
polarity of the tap winding. Figure 30 shows a schematic of the single reversing change-over selector
and the winding resistance at different tap positions.

© OMICRON 2019 Page 29 of 48

 Figure 30: Single reversing change-over selector schematic (left) and winding resistance results (right)

9.2.3 Single coarse change-over selector

A coarse change-over selector (part of the selector switch) doubles the number of tap positions by
connecting the tap winding to the plus or minus tapping of the coarse winding. Figure 31 shows the
schematic of a single coarse change-over selector and the winding resistance for different tap
positions.

Figure 31: Single coarse change-over selector schematic (left) and winding resistance results (right)

9.3 CTs not under test in power transformer

All other CTs (not under test) within the power transformer and installed on the same voltage level
must be shorted on their secondary side or connected to the burden.
NOTICE
 CTs must never be operated in open-circuit conditions.
 Installed CTs are usually grounded at one point on the secondary side.

CTs from other voltage levels should be shorted or connected to the burden. Figure 32 shows an
exemplary test setup with the shorted CTs in a power transformer. Usually the secondary side is
grounded at one point (dashed line).

© OMICRON 2019 Page 30 of 48

 Figure 32: Measurement including the connection visualization of the other CTs within a power transformer

Multi-core CTs
All CTs and CT cores within the power transformer and installed on the same voltage level must be
shorted on their secondary side or connected to the burden.

© OMICRON 2019 Page 31 of 48

10 Autotransformer – tap changer and short-circuit lead
Autotransformers may be equipped with a tap changer. Table 12 displays an autotransformer with a
tap changer installed either after the transformer winding (left picture) or before the transformer
winding (right picture).
Depending on the configuration, different measurement configurations must be applied.
Table 12: Autotransformer with tap changer after and before the transformer winding

Position Tap changer after transformer winding Tap changer before transformer winding

Between secondary side tapping and

Short-circuit lead Between secondary side tapping and neutral
neutral

Tap changer Has no influence → Shorted via short- Tap changer must be switched to lowest
position circuit lead impedance tap position

Neutral Grounded Grounded

Setup

© OMICRON 2019 Page 32 of 48

11 Connection diagrams
This chapter covers the most common connection diagrams for testing bushing CTs.

NOTICE
 Only bushing CTs mounted on the primary side are shown.
o CTs installed on the secondary side can also be tested the same way.
o Example: If the transformer vector group is Dyn and the CT is installed on the
secondary side, then use the connection diagram of a YNd transformer.
 If the CT is installed within a delta winding, more than one measurement setup is possible.
o Different measurement setups can lead to different results!
o Results depend, for example, on the power transformer winding impedance.

Depending on the transformer vector group and the CT location, the similarities in Table 13 can be
obtained:
Table 13: Similarities of vector groups and CT location
Transformer type Similarities
• The winding impedance is 1 x transformer winding, because the
YNyn primary measurement reading shall be taken between phase and
YNy neutral to have the least transformer impedance influence.
YNd
• Correction factor is 1.
• The winding impedance is 1.5 x transformer winding, because the
Yyn primary measurement reading shall be taken between one phase
Yy and the other two shorted phases.
Yd
• Correction factor is 1.
• More than one measurement setup is possible.
CT within the delta
winding
• Winding impedance is
o 0.66 x transformer winding, if the interrelated windings of
Dyn
the other voltage levels in relation to the measurement path
Dy
are shorted.
Dd
• Correction factor depends on measurement setup.
CT outside the
delta winding • Winding impedance is 0.5 x transformer winding, if all windings,
except the winding where the CT is located, are shorted.
Dyn
Dy • Correction factor is 1.
Dd

When the current transformer is installed within a delta winding, the measurement setup may require
that the interrelated windings of the other voltage levels in relation to the measurement path are
shorted.

Table 14 explains the connection diagrams of the CT Analyzer for different transformer vector groups.

© OMICRON 2019 Page 33 of 48

 Table 14: Connection diagram of CT Analyzer for different transformer vector groups

YNd Transformer

Injection Path Shorted Windings Winding Impedance Correction Factor

Phase - Neutral Windings not related to the measurement path 1 x winding 1

Yyn Transformer

Injection Path Shorted Windings Winding Impedance Correction Factor

Phase - Phase All windings, except the winding where the CT is located 1.5 x winding 1

© OMICRON 2019 Page 34 of 48

 Yy Transformer

Injection Path Shorted Windings Winding Impedance Correction Factor

Phase - Phase All windings, except the winding where the CT is located 1.5 x winding 1

Yd Transformer

Injection Path Shorted Windings Winding Impedance Correction Factor

Phase - Phase All windings, except the winding where the CT is located 1.5 x winding 1

© OMICRON 2019 Page 35 of 48

 Dyn Transformer – CT outside delta winding

Injection Path Shorted Windings Winding Impedance Correction Factor

Phase - Phase All windings, except the winding where the CT is located 0.5 x winding 1

Dyn Transformer – CT within delta winding

Injection Path Shorted Windings Winding Impedance Correction Factor

• All windings from the other voltage levels

Phase - Phase • Winding, where the black “Prim” socket of the CTA is 0.66 x winding 1/3
connected

© OMICRON 2019 Page 36 of 48

 Dyn Transformer – CT within delta winding

Injection Path Shorted Windings Winding Impedance Correction Factor

• All windings from the other voltage levels

Phase - Phase 0.66 x winding 2/3
• Winding - where black “Prim” of the CTA is connected

Dyn Transformer – CT within delta winding

Injection Path Shorted Windings Winding Impedance Correction Factor

• Interrelated windings from the other voltage levels

Phase - Phase 0.66 x winding 1
• Winding - where black “Prim” of the CTA is connected

© OMICRON 2019 Page 37 of 48

 Dy Transformer – CT outside delta winding

Injection Path Shorted Windings Winding Impedance Correction Factor

Phase - Phase All windings, except the winding where the CT is located 0.5 x winding 1

Dy Transformer – CT within delta winding

Injection Path Shorted Windings Winding Impedance Correction Factor

• All windings from the other voltage levels

Phase - Phase 0.66 x winding 1/3
• Winding - where black “Prim” of the CTA is connected

© OMICRON 2019 Page 38 of 48

 Dy Transformer – CT within delta winding

Injection Path Shorted Windings Winding Impedance Correction Factor

• All windings from the other voltage levels

Phase - Phase 0.66 x winding 2/3
• Winding - where black “Prim” of the CTA is connected

Dy Transformer – CT within delta winding

Injection Path Shorted Windings Winding Impedance Correction Factor

• All windings from the other voltage levels

Phase - Phase 0.66 x winding 1
• Winding - where black “Prim” of the CTA is connected

© OMICRON 2019 Page 39 of 48

 Dd Transformer – CT outside delta winding

Shorted Windings Winding Impedance Correction Factor

All windings, except the winding where the red CTA "Prim"
0.5 x winding 1
input is connected

Dd Transformer – CT within delta winding

Shorted Windings Winding Impedance Correction Factor

• All windings from the other voltage levels

0.66 x winding 1/3
• Winding - where black “Prim” of the CTA is connected

© OMICRON 2019 Page 40 of 48

 Dd Transformer– CT within delta winding

Injection Path Shorted Windings Winding Impedance Correction Factor

• All windings from the other voltage levels

Phase - Phase 0.66 x winding 2/3
• Winding - where black “Prim” of the CTA is connected

Dd Transformer– CT within delta winding

Injection Path Shorted Windings Winding Impedance Correction Factor

• Interrelated windings from the other voltage levels

Phase - Phase 0.66 x winding 1
• Winding - where black “Prim” of the CTA is connected

© OMICRON 2019 Page 41 of 48

12 Appendix

12.1 Finding the interrelated windings of the other voltage level

The interrelated windings of the other voltage level can easily be evaluated with the help of a vector-
phasor diagram using the clock model.

NOTICE
 For testing bushing CTs, the interrelated windings of the other voltage level are only of interest
when the bushing CT is installed within a delta winding

First, the vector-phasors for the HV winding are drawn with a 120° phase shift between the three
terminals. The first terminal of the secondary side is shifted clockwise by the phase shift defined by
the vector group number (for example, 5 = 5 x 30°).
The remaining terminals are shifted by 120° with regard to the first one.
NOTICE
 One hour on the clock corresponds to 30° as a complete circle has 360° and there are twelve
hours on the clock --> 360°/12=30°.
 When primary and secondary windings are connected differently (for example, star-delta, delta-
star), the secondary-voltage waveforms will differ from the corresponding primary-voltage
waveforms by 30°.

© OMICRON 2019 Page 42 of 48

12.1.1 Example YNd5
The vector-phasor diagram and the table for the corresponding windings for a YNd5 transformer are
shown in Figure 33 and Table 15.

Figure 33 – Vector-phasor diagram for a YNd5 transformer

Table 15: Table for the corresponding windings for YNd5 vector group
HV side LV side
A–N H1 – H0 c–a X3 – X1
B–N H2 – H0 a–b X1 – X2
C–N H3 – H0 b–c X2 – X3

Figure 34 shows the measurement setup for a per-phase test C-A on a Ynd5 transformer.

Figure 34 – Bushing CT (installed on the secondary side) measurement setup on a YNd5 transformer for phase a – c

© OMICRON 2019 Page 43 of 48

12.1.2 Example Dyn11
The vector-phasor diagram and the table for the corresponding windings for a Dyn11 transformer are
shown in Figure 35 and Table 16.

Figure 35 – Vector-phasor diagram for a Dyn11 transformer

Table 16: Table for the corresponding windings for a Dyn11 vector group
HV side LV side
A–B H1 – H2 a–n X1 – X0
B–C H2 – H3 b–n X2 – X0
C–A H3 – H1 c–n X3 – X0

Figure 36 shows the measurement setup for a per-phase test C-A on a Ynd11 transformer.

Figure 36 – Bushing CT (installed on the primary side) measurement setup on a Dyn11 transformer for phase A - C

© OMICRON 2019 Page 44 of 48

12.2 Special application: Railway transformer

This chapter covers the measurement of bushing CTs for railway transformers.
Most railway transformers have two instead of three phases.
NOTICE
 There are several railway transformer types - check the nameplate before testing

For measuring the CT in Phase VV (see Figure 37) a correction factor of 1 must be used.

Figure 37 – Measuring a bushing CT installed on the primary side of a railway transformer

© OMICRON 2019 Page 45 of 48

 For measuring the CT in Phase v (see Figure 38) a correction factor of 1 must be used.

Figure 38 - Measuring a bushing CT installed on the secondary side of a railway transformer

© OMICRON 2019 Page 46 of 48

13 Literature

[1] D. F. Steinhauser, “Demagnetization of CT Cores Exposed to Operating Currents,” in Instrument

Transformer Measurement Forum, 2013.

© OMICRON 2019 Page 47 of 48

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