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Compact Split-core Transducers for High AC and DC Currents

Product News Monday, August 14, 2006: LEM

LEM introduces compact split-core transducers for high AC and DC currents

Key points:

• Suitable for AC and DC primary currents up to 2000A true RMS
• Hall-effect current sensor and true RMS transducer in a single case
• 4-20mA, 0-5V or 0-10V standard output
• Large sensing aperture for non-contact measurement

LEM has introduced the AHR series of AC and DC current transducers that offer versatile and precise measurement of nominal currents up to 2000A true RMS, extending the existing family that ranges from 100A to 1000A. These split-core transducers combine Hall-effect technology and signal conditioning in a compact case to offer substantial savings in size (more than 50% compared to existing current transformers). Measuring only 174 x 86 x 54.1 mm, these transducers are ideally suited to the needs of industrial system designers, system integrators and automation distributors.

Devices in the AHR series have been designed to measure DC signals as well as distorted current waveforms such as variable frequency drive (VFD) outputs. They offer a choice of primary current measurement ranges from 500A to 2000A, a choice of standard output types (4-20mA, 0-5V or 0-10V), a wide power supply range (20 to 50 VDC) and large sensing apertures for non-contact measurement (104 x 40 mm busbar, in addition to a 32 mm cable version).

The new transducers provide an absolute accuracy better than 1 percent of the nominal current over a broad range of inputs. This, coupled with a wide bandwidth from DC to 6kHz, an operating range of -40 to +70°C and true RMS computation for non-linear loads or "noisy" environments, makes them an excellent choice for industrial system designers, system integrators and automation distributors looking for accurate and cost-effective AC or DC current transducers. As with all other LEM products, the AHR series products benefit from the company’s proven high-quality approach to manufacturing and are backed by a five-year guarantee. Principal applications are expected to be in the monitoring of large SCR or switch-mode rectifiers, backup batteries, main AC power supplies and large AC or DC motors.