Understanding Bar Type Current Transformers: Applications & Benefits

What is a Bar Type Current Transformer?

A bar type current transformer consists of a primary conductor (the “bar”) that carries the current to be measured. Unlike wound or toroidal CTs that have primary windings, bar type CTs use the system conductor itself as the primary winding, often designed as an integral part of the transformer. The bar runs through the center of a magnetic core with secondary windings wound around it.

According to a Bar Type Current Transformer Market report, the industry is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.


This simple yet robust construction allows for high mechanical strength, excellent thermal performance, and easy installation in high-voltage switchgear and busbar systems. Bar type CTs are especially favored in medium- to high-voltage environments where space and durability are critical.

Key Applications of Bar Type Current Transformers
Bar type CTs find applications across various industries, where they support current measurement, system monitoring, and protective functions. Some of the key applications include:

1. Power Generation and Distribution
In power plants and substations, bar type CTs are used for accurate current measurement and relay protection. They help monitor the flow of electricity, detect fault currents, and protect equipment by triggering circuit breakers during anomalies.

2. Industrial Automation
Industries with large electrical loads—such as manufacturing, mining, and oil & gas—use bar type CTs to ensure operational safety and efficiency. These CTs integrate with protective relays and digital meters to facilitate real-time current monitoring and load analysis.

3. Switchgear and Control Panels
Due to their compact and rugged construction, bar type CTs are ideal for integration into medium- and high-voltage switchgear panels. Their compatibility with enclosed systems helps maintain safety and system reliability.

4. Smart Grid and Energy Management Systems
As part of smart grid infrastructure, bar type CTs provide high-accuracy current data for intelligent energy management systems. This allows for dynamic load balancing, energy audits, and improved grid performance.

5. Commercial Buildings and Data Centers
Modern commercial buildings and critical infrastructure like data centers use bar type CTs in their power distribution systems to track energy usage, enhance power quality, and provide overload protection.

Benefits of Bar Type Current Transformers
The widespread use of bar type CTs is largely due to their many advantages:

1. Compact and Robust Design
Bar type CTs are generally smaller and more mechanically durable than wound types, making them well-suited for installations with space constraints or harsh environmental conditions.

2. High Accuracy and Stability
They offer high measurement accuracy even at low current levels, which is essential for metering applications and protective relaying in critical systems.

3. Easy Installation
The primary bar conductor is either built-in or integrated with the CT, simplifying installation. There's no need to disconnect the primary circuit, reducing downtime during setup or maintenance.

4. Cost-Effectiveness
Since there’s no need for complex primary windings, bar type CTs can be more economical in medium-voltage applications. Their long lifespan and low maintenance further add to their cost-efficiency.

5. Improved Safety
By isolating the measurement devices from the high-voltage primary circuit, bar type CTs enhance operator and equipment safety.