Metrological characterization of a current sensor for smart grids

Instrument transformers presently used in distribution networks suffer of well known drawbacks that does not allow their employment in the so-called “smart meters” that will be used in the upcoming smart grids. Among several scientific proposals for smart grid sensors, the only current transducer that, up to now, seems to play a role in the next measurement instrumentations is the Rogowski coil given that some major manufacturers are proposing it on the market. However, there is still interest for devices that can be easily installed in existing switch-boxes. In this connection, a current sensor based on a smart measurement of the magnetic field produced by the primary current is proposed. Its performances are evaluated by means of simulations relying on a suitably developed sensor model.