Current transformers, together with voltage transformers (VT) (potential transformers (PT)), are known as instrument transformers.
When current in a circuit is too high to directly apply to measuring instruments, a current transformer produces a reduced current accurately proportional to the current in the circuit, which can be conveniently connected to measuring and recording instruments.
A current transformer also isolates the measuring instruments from what may be very high voltage in the monitored circuit.
Current transformers are commonly used in metering and protective relays in the electrical power industry.
