The standard specifies the . This is the maximum current the transformer can carry continuously without exceeding its temperature rise limits (e.g., a typical limit might be a 60K or 75K rise above ambient). This ensures the insulation does not degrade due to overheating during routine operations.
IEC 61869-2 is a specific part of the overarching IEC 61869 series, which replaced the older IEC 60044 family. The standard applies to newly manufactured inductive current transformers intended for use with electrical measuring instruments and protective devices operating at frequencies from 15 Hz to 100 Hz. It is crucial to note that this standard explicitly covers inductive CTs—the conventional iron-core type—while other parts of the series address low-power, electronic, or other specialized transformers. norma iec 61869-2
One of the most critical aspects of IEC 61869-2 is the definition of accuracy classes. These define how precisely the transformer reproduces the primary current on the secondary side. The standard specifies the
The practical impact of IEC 61869-2 is immense. For manufacturers, it provides a universal technical language, enabling global trade and compliance certification. For utilities and engineers, it guarantees that a CT purchased from any compliant vendor will perform predictably in a specific application. Most importantly, it underpins electrical safety: a protection CT that does not meet its specified accuracy limit factor could cause a relay to under-reach or operate slowly, potentially leading to equipment destruction or blackouts. Similarly, an inaccurate metering CT can cause significant financial losses due to incorrect billing. IEC 61869-2 is a specific part of the
The standard serves as a specialized addition to the general requirements found in . It governs how CTs step down high currents to standardized, lower levels (such as 1 A or 5 A) to allow for safe monitoring by meters and relays. Consolidation of Previous Standards