Not having a policy for open circuit protection on transformers can pose a number of risks and consequences for a manufacturing company or electrical operation – not the least being worker safety.   Do you have open circuit protection devices on your transformers?  If not, here are some risks you should consider:

1. Risk to Human Safety

Components or connectors could fail catastrophically, potentially causing fires, explosions, or electrical shocks, causing injuries to workers – sometimes even fatalities.

windings can be subjected to over-voltages, potentially leading to insulation failure and permanent damage.

2. Significant Damage to Expensive Equipment

Open circuits are a Fault Condition!  Windings can be subjected to over-voltages, potentially leading to insulation failure and permanent damage to expensive equipment.  In addition to equipment repair and replacement cost, operation downtime could be even more expensive

3. Legal Action, Litigation and Regulatory Fines

Not having an adequate protection policy with regard to open circuit protection on devices could lead to non-compliance with industry standards and regulations. This can result in fines, legal action, or mandates to upgrade facilities.  In case of human injury or death, the litigation and judgement costs could be astronomical.

An Easy, Inexpensive Solution

 The OCP-35 open-circuit protection device for current transformers limits voltage spikes of either polarity to a non-destructive level. When transient voltage rises above 35V, the circuit clamps the voltage to >1.5V until next zero crossing.