The measurement tasks of distribution network operators as well as in the industrial environment are becoming increasingly complex. The respective application virtually calls for flexibility in the measurement task. This is because the focus is not only on data management and cyber security, but also increasingly on the hardware for recording the actual measurement.

You can read about a possible solution for increasing flexibility in the measurement task in this blog.

Whether you are upgrading equipment with new measurement technology or simply replacing old with new. Space is often a problem. Especially in stationary measurement technology, the measuring devices often require external sensors in addition to the voltage inputs. This is used to record the currents and to calculate further data (e.g. energy, power, power factor, harmonics in the current, etc.).

But what if the installation space on the lines is so limited that, for example, there is hardly any or no room for current transformers? Or what if the system must not be switched off in the first place, e.g. in order to install clip-on current transformers?

Camille Bauer Metrawatt AG introduces a flexible option for the measuring instrument type SINEAX DM5000 as well as for the power analyzer type LINAX PQ5000. Both devices are designed for DIN rail use. The measuring devices can be configured either with a current transformer or as a device with Rogowski coil. The nominal current for the current transformer input is 1A or 5A (max. 7.5A). The Rogowski coil can be operated up to a current of 3’800A. It is recommended to use current transformers of the SIRAX CT series. For the Rogowski coil, the ACF 3000 type is recommended.

The Rogowski coils score with their simplest installation possibility. And this even during the operation of a plant, taking into account the relevant safety rules. The advantage also lies in the fact that the coils are already provided with a connection cable. This reduces the amount of wiring required. However, the coils have a lower accuracy compared to current transformers, which must be taken into account. Also, during installation, care should be taken to ensure that the lead is centered in the loop in order to capture current flows well and as accurately as possible. This is not always so easy in practice. In addition, it should be noted that Rogowski coils also have a maximum current for safety reasons, which must be taken into account beforehand.

Various accuracy classes can be selected for the current transformers. This is certainly important for measuring devices, which themselves have a high accuracy and should be used in the application. Because with the measuring accuracy the entire measuring chain (measuring instrument + sensor) defines the measuring result. Current transformers can also be retrofitted in systems. So-called hinged transformers are available there, which prevent the lines from being opened. However, the available installation space can be a problem.

With the options to measure with either current transformers or Rogowski coils, you increase the flexibility of the measurement task enormously. Simply decide according to the criteria that seem important and right to you, such as accuracy and the installation effort. Or in the simplest case, what installation space is available.

Furthermore you have not only the flexibility on the sensor technology, but you can also decide if you want to build up a power monitoring with SINEAX DM5000 or even a power quality monitoring with LINAX PQ5000 according to class A. A 19″ rack version of the LINAX PQ5000 is also available.

The right solution is thus available for every task.