& 5P20 Class CTs: They are generally used for Over current (Instantaneous and IDMT relays)

and E/F
protection of Feeders, Transformers etc.

(i) 5 signifies the % limit of composite error.

(ii) P signifies the Protection core,
(iii) 10, 20 signify the quantum of fault current as multiple of the rated current or ALF(Accuracy Limit
Factor) up to which the CT shall have the defined percentage of composite error i.e. 5%. During fault
condition the fault current is many times the rated current. Standard Accuracy Limit factors as per IS:
2705 are 5, 10, 15, 20 & 30.

Accuracy limit factor is inversely proportional to the rated VA burden i.e. if the connected VA burden is
lower than the rated one, the limit of accuracy shall be maintained beyond the declared one.
The formula for actual ALF;
ALF(ACT)= ALF(RTD) x {Sin+Sn(Rated Burden)}/{ Sin+Sa (Actual Burden)}.
Example:- Calculate actual Accuracy limit factor if secondary burden is reduced to 1/3rd, if CT rated as
200/5 A,5P10,15VA and Rct =0.15?
ALF Rated=10(From CT data 5P10),
Sin (Burden due to internal resistance of the CT) = (5A)squre x 0.15=25 x 0.15=3.75VA,
Sn (Rated burden) = 15VA (From CT data), Sa(Actual Burden) = 15/3= 5VA,
ALF(ACT) = ALF(RTD) x {Sin+Sn(Rated Burden)}/{ Sin+Sa(Actual Burden)}

ALF(ACT) = 10x (3.75+15)/(3.75+5) = 10x18.75/8.75 = 21.42

It is clear from the above example that the ALF increases if the connected actual burden is lower than the
rated one. The CT in this condition shall maintain accuracy up to fault current of 21.42 times of rated
current as against 10 times the rated current and shall not saturate till then.
PS Class CTs: Though abbreviation PS is not elaborated anywhere, however it may be called as

Protection Special Class CT core. This core is used particularly where current balance is precisely
required to be maintained. In Differential protection, balance is the prime requirement between secondary
currents of associated CTs of either side of the equipments. Differential and restricted E/F Protection of
Transformers and Overall Differential Protection of Generators need such CTS.
The 5P10P or 5P20 class CTs cannot match the Characteristic as that of PS class. The core of PS class
is such that very high current is needed for saturation of the core. Knee point voltage of the CT is of valid
importance. The developed voltage across the relay terminals should be lower than the Knee point
Voltage of the CTs.
From: Er.K.K.Murty, B.E.(Hons)Electrical,FIE.
Retd.Chief Engineer(Testing & Commnu),M.P.State Electricity Board.