DC current sensor for Measurement of Geomagnetically Induced Currents [GIC] in Electrical Grid and Electrical Distribution Networks

Features

• High resolution (1000:1)
• Low residual offset
• Split-core
• Bidirectional
• Non-contact
• Input/Output isolation
• Low power consumption
• Outdoor installation
• Wide temperature range
• Conduit attachment (Rigid 1/2” 12.7mm dia)

Description

CTH-GIC transducers are able to measure DC currents including very low frequency ac, in the presence of higher levels of AC current at the power frequency. The CTH-GIC effectively attenuates the power frequency current allowing the DC and 'VLF' AC currents to be measured. This enables accurate measurement of Geomagnetically Induced Currents (GIC) on power grids and DC components potentially harming and degrading distribtion equipment. The device operates over a wide dynamic range and maintains low-level accuracy even after a large over-range. The GIC’s inherently low residual effect eliminates the need to degauss in all but extreme circumstances. The split-core enclosure, with captive hardware and outdoor rating, makes installation easy and does not require circuit interruption.

Why measure Geomagnetically Induced Currents (GICs)

Geomagnetically Induced Currents (GICs) can result from geomagnetic storms, which is a type of space weather event in which Earth's magnetic field is disturbed by incoming magnetic solar material. Most GICs are triggered by coronal mass ejections, or CMEs, which interact with the magnetic field around Earth and cause it to temporarily "rattle". The quick-changing magnetic fields electromagnetically induce currents in long electrical conductor installations like grid and distrbution networks. GICs can flow also through railroad tracks, underground pipelines and power grids. In extreme cases, they can cause power outages like brownouts and in some cases blackouts.