A New Technique for High Current Calibrations Using Low Voltage Reference Standards

Abstract

In the electrical power industry, high current measurements have a fundamental importance. This necessitates the use of highly accurate, precise, and traceable techniques to calibrate measuring instruments in order to preserve the output quality. High current measuring techniques are being developed continuously to improve measurement accuracy and reduce uncertainty [1]. [2]. It is crucial to develop traceable strategies for calibrating high current sourcing instruments such that high current measurements can be traced to SI units, hence ensuring that the specifications and calibration procedures are in agreement with quality standards [3]. Calibrators combined with current coils are commonly used in high current measurements in industrial applications and laboratory measurements. Measuring high currents involves current clamps in both laboratory and industrial measurements as they provide safety due to their high insulation level [4], [5]. Clamp meters and clamp transducers that are based on Hall-effect current sensor are capable of measuring dc and ac currents [6]. Hall-effect sensors sense the magnetic field due to the flow of current, in terms of low voltage corresponding to the high current induced in the current coil [7]. Thus, the low voltage detected will facilitate the traceability of high current measurements to the SI units.