Development of a new type of optical transducer for measuring fault current

An optical current transducer has been developed capable of measuring current up to short-circuit currents of 50 kA. The optical current transducer is composed of a current measuring unit, an insulator with integral optical fibers, and an optical interface. The current measuring unit combines a winding with a magnetic iron core and a solenoid coil containing a Faraday sensor. The optical interface converts optical signals into electrical signals. Prototype optical current transducers have satisfied target performance requirements and have demonstrated the ability to maintain that level of performance in field applications