Electricity distribution systems rely heavily on power converters, such as transformers. Reactors also play an important part in the electricity transfer process, often used to limit or stabilise the supply. Because most of these power converters have magnetic cores, they can also cause energy losses for AC devices. This is known as core loss, and measuring it when upgrading any electrical distribution system is crucial.
Technicians can use a range of devices to test electrical equipment and systems, but when it comes to measuring core loss, Hioki’s Memory HiCorder is the perfect choice. In this article, we’ll learn more about core loss measurement and how you can use Hioki tools to your advantage.
How do you measure core loss?
There are multiple ways you can measure core loss. Typically, the Epstein frame method is used, and this includes a primary and secondary winding. However, this is an overarching principle, and the specific tools and measurement methods can vary.
Core loss can be measured using a power analyser or even a power meter. While these methods are perfectly suitable, they are also more time-consuming and open to human error. A more reliable and accurate way to measure core loss is by using the Hioki Memory HiCorder. Primarily, this method is superior because it lets you measure voltage on both the primary and secondary sides, but we’ll go into more detail next.
Why use an advanced Memory HiCorder?
Memory HiCorders are powerful pieces of equipment used for a variety of applications. One of those applications is core loss measurement, which, as we’ve discussed, is a crucial process when optimising electrical distribution systems. Memory HiCorders are known as general-purpose data acquisition devices, making them versatile as well as effective.
When measuring core loss, a Memory HiCorder can simultaneously capture multiple signals and completely isolate them. For analysis purposes, this makes the task so much simpler. When measuring multiple signals using single-capture devices, you often need to keep records and perform manual calculations. Not only does this come with a huge risk of human error, but it also takes more time than it should.
Rather, the Hioki Memory HiCorder captures everything you need in simple graphs, allowing you to quickly and accurately measure core loss in all electrical environments.
How to use a Memory HiCorder to measure core loss
Hioki’s Memory HiCorder makes it simple to test the core loss of reactors. Firstly, it’s important to understand what you’re looking at. You’ll see a typical X-Y axis graph when you open the device’s waveform function. The system will measure the magnetic flux density (B) and the magnetic field (H) when connected.
You will notice the device graphs the B-H curve. From there, you can use the numerical calculation function’s X-Y ara. This tells you the core loss from the B-H curve. As you can see, it makes the process extremely simple and fast, not to mention more accurate.
You can also use the same waveform calculation function to calculate the core loss from the primary and secondary voltage sides.
We’d love to hear from you if you’d like to discover a better way to measure core loss in reactors. NWI offers expert advice on Hioki Memory HiCorders and a range of other electrical measurement devices. Contact our friendly team today to find out more.
Comments are closed.