Introduction

iLEC ZCT (Zero Phase Current Transformer) or Core Balance Current Transformer (CBCT) is a specialized device used to detect leakage current or ground fault current by measuring the vector sum of three-phase currents.

1. Operating principleIn a normal electrical system, the total vector of the three-phase current is equal to 0.\(I_A + I_B + I_C = 0\)When a leakage current or ground fault occurs, an excess current (zero-sequence current) appears . The ZCT will detect this current and send a signal to the protective relay (EFR/ELR) to interrupt the circuit, protecting equipment and people.
2. Structure & ShapeShape: Typically toroidal (round) in design, the system's phase/neutral wire is threaded through the circular hole in the center of the sensor.Characteristics: Unlike conventional CTs, it does not have a fixed current transformation ratio but operates based on the principle of direct magnetic induction of the total current flowing through the center.
3. Main functionsLeakage protection: Prevents the risk of electric shock when people accidentally touch equipment with a faulty electrical connection.Ground fault protection: Detects and disconnects the system in the event of a phase short circuit to the equipment casing, protecting cables and equipment from fire and explosion.
4. Practical applicationsCommonly installed in industrial electrical cabinets and main distribution boards (MSBs), in combination with ground fault and leakage protection relays (such as Mikro, Schneider, Omron relays, etc.).To learn more about the detailed operation or to select the appropriate leakage current range for your system, you can refer to the manufacturer's documentation for the Mikro ZCT zero-sequence current transformer to choose the most accurate measuring devices.

What is a Core Balance Current Transformer

Core Balance Current Transformer (CBCT) or a Zero sequence Current Transformer (ZCT) or Zero-Phase Current Transformer (ZPC) is a special current transformer used to detect the zero sequence current during faults (such as Earth Leakage or ground fault) that generates an unbalanced in the electric system.

CBCT / ZCT / ZPC working principle

In the ideal condition, No leakage current. So the sum of incoming current Ia + Ib + Ic + in = -ie =0

Hence, there will not be any flux generated in the CBCT core, so the secondary current in the secondary winding (S1 - S2) is zero

In case There is a leakage current, Ia + Ib + Ic + in = -ie > 0. This leakage current will generate a flux in the core. The flux will generate the secondary current in the secondary winding. The leakage monitoring equpment or earth leakage / earth fault relay will detect this current. Depending on the amplitude of the earth lekage current, the protection relay will send the alarm signal or trip signal to the switchgear

CBCT's Technical parameters

CBCT output signal and ratio

• Output signal: mA or mV (AC)
• Ratio: 50/1; 100/1; 200/1; 500/1 and 1000/1

CBCT Minimum sensing current

The minimum sensing current is the smallest primary current that can be detected by the CT, smaller value is better. Typical value is 10mA

Most of manufacturer just sell their Earth Leakage relay with their CBCT (ZCT, ZPC) without public output signal and ratio. The reason is that they want their device to work with the best compatibility and the best efficiency. Because their main product is leakage current protection relays, their zero sequence current transformer range is not diverse in shape and size.