Current Transformer Manufacturers produce current transformers in various sizes, shapes, and ratings for a wide range of applications. They can be divided into three types based on construction; window, bar, and wound, and each type can be either single-ratio or multi-ratio in nature. Window-type CTs, for instance, do not contain a primary winding and have a secondary conductor threaded through the center of the device that is carrying current. These CTs are highly insulated and operate at high voltage.

Another common use of current transformers is in metering systems, where they serve to separate the primary circuit, in which the current being measured flows, from the secondary winding connected to the meter. This helps eliminate problems associated with stray voltage and interferences due to different ground potentials between the two circuits. In addition, they provide a degree of safety as the primary circuit is not exposed to high levels of voltage.

Current transformers can be categorized in terms of accuracy class (it indicates the impact of a current transformer structure on its performance). Other key parameters include voltage rating, temperature class, and wattage load capacity. Depending on these specifications, current transformers can be tailored to specific industrial applications.

Increasing demand for renewable energy systems will boost the growth of the current transformer market. This is because these devices are used to monitor and manage the flow of current in solar photovoltaic and wind energy systems. In addition, the need to enhance power grid stability will also promote their adoption.

The global current transformer market is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 6.5% through 2030. This growth is primarily driven by the increased demand for toroidal current transformers. This is because they offer advantages over their dry counterparts, including improved operational capability in high-tension applications and weight reduction. Additionally, oil immersed cooling mechanisms are becoming increasingly popular as they provide better thermal performance and lower maintenance costs.

Many manufacturers of current transformers offer off-the-shelf and custom models for a variety of industries. For example, Magnetic Metals Corp in Cherry Hill, NJ, produces current transformers to order with diameters between 0.210 and 0.780 inches and maximum current of 0.01 A for industrial and military applications. Other options offered by this company include enlarged sensing windows, zinc-plated terminals, shorting jumpers and blocks, and more.

Manutech in Miami, FL, makes both off-the-shelf and custom current sense transformers for the aerospace, electronics, medicine, military, optics, and other industries. They can be configured to meet various requirements, such as current sensitivity, primary and secondary current ratios, frequency range, insulation voltage, and more.

The major challenge that is impeding the growth of the current transformer market is increasing imports from China. This is because China has hacked into Indian electricity networks in the past and because it provides access to vital infrastructure like water systems, telecommunications, critical government services, and military services. As such, there are huge concerns about Chinese equipment and repeated requests for India to ban its imports.