Transformer Inrush Surge Mitigator
Overview
The initial current surge in a toroidal transformer depends on:
1. The magnitude and direction of the residual magnetic field in the core and,
2. The initial angle of the sinusoidal voltage at the turn-on point
Bridgeport Magnetics Group has developed and filed for patent for a novel Inrush Mitigating device, which addresses both issues.
When turned on, the surge mitigator first applies a brief pulse of DC to the primary winding in order to magnetize the core to a known direction and field strength. After this a timing circuit engages a power relay to switch the transformer on at the peak of the voltage sine wave with the effect of virtually eliminating any inrush current surge. The relay thus handles only the normal load current when closing and zero current when breaking. It resets in 250ms after turn-off.