Current Transducer vs. Current Transformer

There are two main devices that monitor and manage electrical current: current transducers and current transformers. Both current transducers and current transformers are used in various settings to measure electric current, with some key differences. Current transducers convert current for monitoring and assessment, while current transformers divide current so it can safely be used as a power source. In this post, we’ll discuss the major functions of current transducers and current transformers, their different uses, and what makes transformers a strong choice in many applications.

What Is a Current Transducer and How Does It Work?

A current transducer essentially works as a current sensor, turning electrical energy into an output signal for monitoring purposes. This occurs in several steps:

1. The current enters the system, where the sensitive component will detect it and give a signal to the conversion component.
2. The conversion component converts the signal to a small current signal and passes it on to the conversion unit.
3. The conversion circuit processes the small current signal and sends the output signal to a display, automation control system, or other equipment.

There are different transducers that measure different effects. For example, a Hall effect transducer measures magnetic fields (or how a magnetic field changes the voltage levels of a current). Other transducers might rely on Rogowski coils, shunts, fiber optics, or other technologies.

What Is a Current Transformer and How Does It Work?

A current transformer focuses on both power and measurement. It can “step down” or reduce a high electrical current to a lower voltage level, making it safer to monitor. A current transformer can also measure the strength of electric current, such as those in power grid lines or various metering applications.

The donut-shaped transformer has an empty center that the source carrying the incoming current can pass through. There is no contact between the two elements, but they work together to operate as a transformer. This design feature allows for the measurement of the current without contact with the current source, which could potentially disrupt the system.

Benefits of Transformers Over Transducers

The benefits current transformers offer depend on the type of device and the intended application. However, several advantages stand out, including:

• High accuracy. Current transformers provide a high degree of accuracy and linearity across a specific current range, while current transducers may provide highly variable results from one device to the next.
• Easy installation. Current transformers come in more standardized designs, allowing for more efficient handling and installation. Transducers, by comparison, are much more specialized and require different installation and calibration, depending on the technology and design characteristics.
• Cost-effectiveness. Current transformers are typically more affordable compared to current transducers and require minimal maintenance, providing an accessible option for businesses or industrial projects.
• Non-contact. A current transformer will isolate the diagnostic circuit from the rest of the system.

Current Transformers From Stangenes Industries Inc.

Stangenes Industries Inc. specializes in current transformers, electromagnetic subassemblies, voltage dividers, and more. Our team of experts uses their extensive knowledge to supply cost-effective, reliable products that support your specific application’s requirements. Along with standard components, we offer customization services to create current transformers for extremely accurate diagnostic processes.

Reach out today to tell us about your project needs or to request a quote.

Made in America

Stangenes Industries is a top manufacturer of electromagnetic components and high-voltage electrical systems. We offer a range of services and products that can meet even the strictest requirements, combining our resources and expertise to uncover the best possible product or system for each application. We cater to customers across a range of industries, including start-ups and Fortune 500 companies. We also work with a large number of laboratories in the U.S. Department of Energy.

The Stangenes Facility

From our grass-roots beginning as a small manufacturer with one full-time employee and an order for five inductors, Stangenes Industries has grown into the premier American pulsed-power supplier to the world.

Company History

Stangenes Industries began in the 1970s as a small manufacturer with a clear vision that helped carry the company to where it is today. We are now a leading international provider of top-quality high-voltage electrical systems and electromagnetic parts for nearly any type of application.

Stangenes Industries’ subsidiary MK Magnetics, established in 2003 in Adelanto, California, equips our company with a team of highly experienced employees. Thanks to the work of this subsidiary and our other ongoing developments, we continue to grow within our industry and across the globe.

Equipment

At Stangenes Industries, we blend innovative technologies with hand-crafted solutions. In utilizing the latest technological developments, we use only the best contemporary materials to optimize our products. Regularly updating and upgrading our offerings allows for continual improvement and maintains optimum efficiency.

Company Culture & Employment

Stangenes Industries gives customers access to reliable staff who will collaborate closely with you to craft the ideal solution based on your needs. Our team works to maintain a safe workspace while also cultivating:

• Successful collaboration as a team
• Superior customer service
• Peak performance for each employee
• A healthy culture that promotes respect

Benefits of Working With a U.S. Manufacturer

Some of the main benefits of turning to a U.S. manufacturer for your high-voltage systems or electromagnetic products include:

• Improved overall quality control
• Shorter lead times
• Lower shipping expenses
• The highest environmental standards

Manufacturing U.S. Compliance Standards We Follow

The experts at Stangenes Industrial work diligently to meet all requirements for each solution in line with all applicable statutory and regulatory requirements. To facilitate consistent quality across our products, we maintain a Quality Management System (QMS) that adheres to the following standards:

• ISO 9001:2015. This is an international standard establishing key QMS requirements, including particular procedures, processes, and activities that companies need to develop, utilize, optimize, and maintain to achieve long-term success.
• MIL-T-27. Many inductors and transformers must comply with this military specification. It discloses the fundamental requirements for a variety of military electronics and communications systems, including audio inductors and transformers, power inductors and transformers, charging inductors, high-power pulse transformers, and saturable inductors and transformers for electronic and communication equipment.
• MIL-I-45208. The U.S. Department of Defense is responsible for approving this military contract for multiple departments, including the U.S. Navy, Air Force, Army, and Defense Supply. This standard helps make sure proper inspection systems are in place to meet the requirements of each contract.

Why Work With Stangenes Industries, Inc.

With over 50 years of experience backing us, Stangenes Industries provides reliable high-voltage systems and electromagnetic components for a breadth of industries. In that time, we’ve served medical, power, nuclear, and other major sectors. Whatever your application demands, our staff of experienced and skilled engineers, designers, and craftspeople are at the ready to help you achieve it.

Our extensive capabilities enable us to develop many types of products, including high-voltage pulse modulators, electromagnets, high-voltage power supply systems, charging inductors, standard and custom transformers, and more. Whenever you require dependable products of superior quality, turn to Stangenes Industries to give you what you need.

Want to discover what we can do for you here at Stangenes Industries and find the right solution for your organization? Contact us today to speak with one of our experts or request a quote for a custom product.