CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

CLASS NOTES ON

ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION

FOR

5TH & 6TH SEMESTER OF

ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING & EEE (B.TECH PROGRAMME)

DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

VEER SURENDRA SAI UNIVERSITY OF
TECHNOLOGY
BURLA -768018, ODISHA, INDIA
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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

DISCLAIMER
This document does not claim any originality and cannot be used as a substitute for prescribed
textbooks. The matter presented here is prepared by the author for their respective teaching
assignments by referring the text books and reference books. Further, this document is not
intended to be used for commercial purpose and the committee members are not accountable for
any issues, legal or otherwise, arising out of use of this document.

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

SYLLABUS
ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION (3-1-0)

MODULE-I (10 HOURS)

Measuring Instruments: Classification, Absolute and secondary instruments, indicating instruments,
control, balancing and damping, constructional details, characteristics, errors in measurement, Ammeters,
voltmeters: (DC/AC) PMMC, MI, Electrodynamometer type
Wattmeters: Electrodynamometer type, induction type, single phase and three phase wattmeter,
compensation, Energymeters: AC. Induction type siqgle phase and three phase energy meter,
compensation, creep, error, testing, Frequency Meters: Vibrating reed type, electrical resonance type
MODULE-II (10 HOURS)
Instrument Transformers: Potential and current transformers, ratio and phase angle errors, phasor
diagram, methods of minimizing errors; testing and applications.
Galvanometers: General principle and performance equations of D' Arsonval Galvanometers, Vibration
Galvanometer and Ballistic Galvanometer.
Potentiometers: DC Potentiometer, Crompton potentiometer, construction, standardization, application.
AC Potentiometer, Drysdale polar potentiometer; standardization, application.
MODULE-III (10 HOURS)
DC/AC Bridges :General equations for bridge balance, measurement of self inductance by Maxwell’s
bridge (with variable inductance & variable capacitance), Hay’s bridge, Owen’s bridge, measurement of
capacitance by Schearing bridge, errors, Wagner’s earthing device, Kelvin’s double bridge.
Transducer: Strain Gauges, Thermistors, Thermocouples, Linear Variable Differential Transformer
(LVDT), Capacitive Transducers, Peizo-Electric transducers, Optical Transducer, Torque meters,
inductive torque transducers, electric tachometers, photo-electric tachometers, Hall Effect Transducer
MODULE-IV (10 HOURS)
CRO: Block diagram, Sweep generation, vertical amplifiers, use of CRG in measurement of frequency,
phase, Amplitude and rise time of a pulse.
Digital Multi-meter: Block diagram, principle of operation, Accuracy of measurement, Electronic
Voltmeter: Transistor Voltmeter, Block diagram, principle of operation, various types of electronic
voltmeter, Digital Frequency meter: Block diagram, principle of operation
TEXT BOOKS
[1]. A Course in Elec. & Electronics Measurements & Instrumentation: A K. Sawhney
[2]. Modern Electronic Instrumentation and Measurement Techniques: Helfrick & Cooper
[3]. Electrical Measurement and Measuring Instruments - Golding & Waddis

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Model Question Paper: Set-1

Full Marks: 70 Time: 3 hours
Answer any six questions including question No. 1 which is compulsory.
The figures in the right-hand margin indicate marks.
(Answer any six questions including Q.No. 1)
[
2
X
1
0
]
1. Answer the following questions:
(a) Differentiate between the spring control and gravity control.
(b) Why an ammeter should have a low resistance value.
(c) What are the precautions taken while using a DC voltmeter and
DC ammeter.
(d) What is the major cause of creeping error in an energy meter
(e) What are the errors occurs in instrument transformers.
(f) Differentiate the principle of dc potentiometer and ac
potentiometer.
(g) What are the sources of errors in AC bridge measurement.
(h) Differentiate between dual trace and dual beam CRO.
(i) What are active and passive transducers? Give examples.
(j) What is piezoelectric effect.

2. (a) With a neat diagram explain in detail the construction of PMMC instrument.
(b)What are the shunts and multiplier? Derive the expression for both, with reference to
meters used in electrical circuits.
[5+5]
3. (a) Discuss with block diagram, the principle of operation of single phase energy meter.
(b) An energy meter is designed to make 100 revolutions of the disc for one unit of
energy. Calculate the number of revolutions made by it , when connected to a load
carrying 40 A at 230V and 0.4 p.f. for 1 hour. If it actually makes 360 revolutions, find
the percentage error.
[5+5]
4. (a) Derive expression for actual transformation ratio, ratio error and phasor angle
error of a P.T.
(b) A current transformer with bar primary has 300 turns in its secondary winding. The
resistance
(b) Derive anandexpression
reactanceforofgauge
the secondary circuit
factor in terms are 1.5Ω ration.
of Poission’s and 1.0 Ω respectively,
[5+5]
including
7. (a) the transformer
With a block winding.
diagram, explain With 5A
the working flowing in the secondary winding, the
of CRO
magnetizing mmfdiagram,
(b) With a block is 100AT and the
explain core the
in detail lossdigital
is 1.2frequency
W. Determine
meterthe ratio and[5+5]
phase
angle errors.
8. [5+5]
Write short notes on
5. (a)
(a) Derive
Kelvin’sthe equation
double of balance for Anderson bridge and also draw the phasor diagram.
bridge
(b) D-
AnArsonaval
AC bridgegalvanometer
is balanced at 2KHz with the following components in each arm:[5+5]
Arm AB=10KΩ, Arm BC=100µF in series with 100KΩ, Arm AD=50KΩ
Find the unknown impendence R±jX in the arm DC, if the detector is between BD.
6. (a) What is transducer? Briefly explain the procedure for selecting a transducer.
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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Model Question Paper: Set-2

Full Marks: 70 Time: 3 hours
Answer any six questions including question No. 1 which is compulsory.
The figures in the right-hand margin indicate marks.
(Answer any six questions including Q.No. 1)
[2X10]
1. Answer the following questions:
(a) Why is damping required for an electromechanical measuring instrument?
(b) Why is scale of MI instrument calibrated non- linearly?
(c) What is the difference between analog and digital frequency meter?
(d) Which instrument can be used to measure non-sinusoidal voltage?
(e) What is the major cause of creeping error in an energy meter?
(f) What do you mean by active and passive transducer? Give suitable examples.
(g) Draw a suitable AC bridge used for measurement of frequency.
(h) What are the steps to be taken for minimizing errors in PT?
(i) Discuss briefly the role of ordinary galvanometer?
(j) What is the function of time base generator in CRO?

Q.2 (a) Derive the torque equation of a moving iron instrument? [5]
(b) Sketch and explain the working of moving-coil instrument. [5]

Q.3 (a) Discuss a method for measurement of low resistance. [5]

(b) Explain the operation of a Wagner’s earthing device. [5]

Q.4 Derive the errors of CT and PT, and discuss its preventives. [10]

Q.5 (a) Discuss about a ac bridge used for measurement of capacitance [5]
(b) Discuss about a galvanometer which is used for measurement of frequency. [5]

Q.6 (a) How is the voltmeter calibrated with DC potentiometer ? [5]

(b) What is the use of LVDT? Discuss its basic principle of operation. [5]

Q.7 (a) How are the frequency and phase measured in CRO. [5]
(b)Draw the block diagram of an electronic voltmeter and explain its operation. [5]

8. Write short notes on any two: [5X2]

(a) Owen’s bridge
(b)Digital frequency meter
(c) Hall-effect transducer

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Model Question Paper: Set-3

Full Marks: 70 Time: 3 hours
Answer any six questions including question No. 1 which is compulsory.
The figures in the right-hand margin indicate marks.
(Answer any six questions including Q.No. 1)
[
2
X
1
0
]
1. Answer the following questions:
(k) Why scales of the gravity control instruments are not uniform
but are crowded?
(l) Why eddy current damping cannot be used for moving iron instrument?
(m)What is mean by Phantom Load?
(n) Why do we use a multiplier with a voltmeter?
(o) What is the major cause of creeping error in an energy meter?
(p) Why is dynamometer type instrument chiefly used as a wattmeter?
(q) Define gauge factor of a strain gauges how is it related to poisons ratio
µ?
(r)
showWhy
howthe secondary
they of a CTthe
help to reduce is error.
never left open circuited? [5]
(s) Why there are two conditions of balance in ac bridges,
(b) Sketch and explain the working of moving-coil instrument. where as there is only one
[5]for
dc bridges?
3. (t) How to
(a) What areprevent the loading
the different testingofconducted
a circuit under test when
on a single a CRO
phase is used?
energy meter?
[5] (b)The meter constant of 230V, 10A energy meter is 1700. The meter is tested under
2. (a) Draw
half loadthe possible
and methods
rated voltage at of connecting
unity p.f. The the pressure
meter coiltoofmake
is found a wattmeter and in 138
80 revolutions
compare the errors.
sec. Find % error. Explain the meaning of ‘compensating winding’ in a wattmeter and
[5]

4. Differentiate between a C.T. and P.T. Discuss the theory of a P.T with phasor diagrams.
Derive expression for actual transformation ratio, ratio error and phasor angle error of a
P.T.
[10]
5. (a) Describe how an AC potentiometer, can be used for the calibration of wattmeter? [5]
null(b)Explain
conditionshow
and explain
LVDT canhowbeloss angle
used of capacitor can
for measurement be calculated.
of displacement. [5]
(b) Describe the general working principle of a D’ Arsonval Galvanometer.
[5] [5]
6. (a) Derive the equation of balance of a Schering Bridge. Draw the phasor diagram
7. under
(a) Explain the use of CRG in the measurement of frequency. [5] (b)Draw the
block diagram of an electronic voltmeter and explain its operation. [5]

8. Write short notes on: [5X2]

(a) Thermo couple
(b)Peizo-Electric Transducers.

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Model Question Paper: Set-4

Full Marks: 70 Time: 3 hours
Answer any six questions including question No. 1 which is compulsory.
The figures in the right-hand margin indicate marks.
(Answer any six questions including Q.No. 1)
1. Answer the following questions:
[2 x 10]
(a) What are the parameters on which the critical damping of galvanometer depends?
Why critical damping is important?
(b) The current flowing through a resistance of 10.281 kΩ is measured as 1.217
mA.
Calculate the voltage drop across the resistor to the appropriate number of significant
errors.
(c) What are the main advantages and disadvantages of PMMC instruments?
(d) Why an electrodynamometer type instrument is called a “Universal Instrument”?
(e) Write the working principle of resonance type frequency meter.
(f) What are the advantages of electronic voltmeter over electro – mechanical type
voltmeter?
(g) Why Maxwell Bridge is limited to the measurement of medium – Q coils?
(h) What will happen in a current transformer, if the secondary circuit is accidentally
opened while the primary winding is energized?
(i) Suggest a transducer for the measurement of displacement in the order of one – tenth
of millimeter and write the basic principle of measurement.
(j) What is the function of delay line in oscilloscope?

Q. 2. [5 + 5]

a) The coil of a measuring instrument has a resistance of 1 Ω and the instrument has a full
scale deflection of 250 V when a resistance of 4999 Ω is connected with it. Find the
current range of the instrument when used as an ammeter with the coil connected across a
shunt of (1/499) Ω and the value of the shunt resistance for the instrument to give a full
scale deflection of 50 A.
b) Distinguish between gross error, systematic error and random error with examples. What
Q. 3. are the methods for their elimination/reduction? [5 + 5]

a) Draw the circuit diagram of Schering Bridge. Derive the conditions for balancing the
bridge and draw the phasor diagram during balanced condition.
b) Describe the theory and method of measurement of low resistance using Kelvin’s double
Bridge. How the effect of thermo – electric emf is taken into account during
measurement?

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Q. 4. [10]

A single range student type potentiometer has 20 step dial switch where each step
represents 0.1 V. The dial resistors are 20 Ω. The slide wire of the potentiometer is
circular and has 10 turns and a resistance of 10 Ω each. The slide wire has 200 divisions
and interpolation can be done to one fourth of a division. The working battery has a
voltage of 10 V and negligible internal resistance. Draw the circuit diagram and calculate
i) The measuring range of potentiometer
ii) The resolution
iii) Working current
Resistance of series rheostat
iv)

Q. 5. [5 + 5]

a) What is the requirement of “Screening of bridge components”? Draw the circuit diagram
of Wagner’s earthing device and explain its operation.
b) Define the sensitivity of a strain gauge. Draw the circuit for measurement of strain and
derive the expression of output voltage in terms of strain.

Q. 6. [5 + 5]

a) Derive the torque equation of moving iron instrument and comment on the shape of the
scale.
b) Prove that for electrodynamometer type wattmeter
true power = {cos Φ / [cos Φ cos (Φ – β]} x actual wattmeter reading
Where cos Φ = power factor of the circuit
β = tan-1 (ωL/R) where L and R are the inductance and
resistance of the pressure
coil of the circuit.
Q. 7. [5 + 5]

a) Describe the construction and principle of operation of D’ Arsonval type Galvanometer.

b) Discuss the major sources of errors in current transformer. What are the means to reduce
errors in CT? Explain design and constructional feature to reduce the error.

Q. 8. [6 + 4]

a) Describe the measurement of frequency, phase angle and time delay using oscilloscope
with suitable diagrams and mathematical expressions.
b) With block diagram explain the operation of “Ramp type’ digital voltmeter.

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

MEASURING INSTRUMENTS

1.1 Definition of instruments

An instrument is a device in which we can determine the magnitude or value of the
quantity to be measured. The measuring quantity can be voltage, current, power and
energy etc. Generally instruments are classified in to two categories.

Instrument

Absolute Instrument Secondary Instrument

2. Absolute instrument

An absolute instrument determines the magnitude of the quantity to be measured in terms of the
instrument parameter. This instrument is really used, because each time the value of the
measuring quantities varies. So we have to calculate the magnitude of the measuring quantity,
analytically which is time consuming. These types of instruments are suitable for laboratory use.
Example: Tangent galvanometer.

3. Secondary instrument

This instrument determines the value of the quantity to be measured directly. Generally these
instruments are calibrated by comparing with another standard secondary instrument.
Examples of such instruments are voltmeter, ammeter and wattmeter etc. Practically
secondary instruments are suitable for measurement.

Secondary instruments

Indicating instruments Recording Integrating Electromechanically

Indicating instruments

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

1. Indicating instrument

This instrument uses a dial and pointer to determine the value of measuring quantity. The pointer
indication gives the magnitude of measuring quantity.

2. Recording instrument

This type of instruments records the magnitude of the quantity to be measured continuously over
a specified period of time.

3. Integrating instrument

This type of instrument gives the total amount of the quantity to be measured over a specified
period of time.
4. Electromechanical indicating instrument

For satisfactory operation electromechanical indicating instrument, three forces are necessary.
They are
(a) Deflecting force

(b)Controlling force

(c)Damping force

1.4 Deflecting force

When there is no input signal to the instrument, the pointer will be at its zero position. To deflect
the pointer from its zero position, a force is necessary which is known as deflecting force. A
system which produces the deflecting force is known as a deflecting system. Generally a
deflecting system converts an electrical signal to a mechanical force.

Fig. 1.1 Pointer scale

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

1.4.1 Magnitude effect

When a current passes through the coil (Fig.1.2), it produces a imaginary bar magnet. When a
soft-iron piece is brought near this coil it is magnetized. Depending upon the current direction the
poles are produced in such a way that there will be a force of attraction between the coil and the
soft iron piece. This principle is used in moving iron attraction type instrument.

Fig. 1.2

If two soft iron pieces are place near a current carrying coil there will be a force of repulsion
between the two soft iron pieces. This principle is utilized in the moving iron repulsion type
instrument.

1.4.2 Force between a permanent magnet and a current carrying coil

When a current carrying coil is placed under the influence of magnetic field produced by a
permanent magnet and a force is produced between them. This principle is utilized in the moving
coil type instrument.

Fig. 1.3

1.4.3 Force between two current carrying coil

When two current carrying coils are placed closer to each other there will be a force of repulsion
between them. If one coil is movable and other is fixed, the movable coil will move away from
the fixed one. This principle is utilized in electrodynamometer type instrument.

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Fig. 1.4

5. Controlling force

To make the measurement indicated by the pointer definite (constant) a force is necessary which
will be acting in the opposite direction to the deflecting force. This force is known as controlling
force. A system which produces this force is known as a controlled system. When the external
signal to be measured by the instrument is removed, the pointer should return back to the zero
position. This is possibly due to the controlling force and the pointer will be indicating a steady
value when the deflecting torque is equal to controlling torque.

Td  Tc (1.1)

1. Spring control

Two springs are attached on either end of spindle (Fig. 1.5).The spindle is placed in jewelled
bearing, so that the frictional force between the pivot and spindle will be minimum. Two springs
are provided in opposite direction to compensate the temperature error. The spring is made of
phosphorous bronze.

When a current is supply, the pointer deflects due to rotation of the spindle. While spindle is
rotate, the spring attached with the spindle will oppose the movements of the pointer. The torque
produced by the spring is directly proportional to the pointer deflection .

TC   (1.2)

The deflecting torque produced Td proportional to ‘I’. When TC  Td , the pointer will come to a

steady position. Therefore

I (1.3)

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Fig. 1.5

Since,  and I are directly proportional to the scale of such instrument which uses spring
controlled is uniform.
6. Damping force

The deflection torque and controlling torque produced by systems are electro mechanical.
Due to inertia produced by this system, the pointer oscillates about it final steady position before
coming to rest. The time required to take the measurement is more. To damp out the oscillation is
quickly, a damping force is necessary. This force is produced by different systems.

(a) Air friction damping

(b) Fluid friction damping
(c) Eddy current damping
1.6.1 Air friction damping

The piston is mechanically connected to a spindle through the connecting rod (Fig. 1.6). The
pointer is fixed to the spindle moves over a calibrated dial. When the pointer oscillates in
clockwise direction, the piston goes inside and the cylinder gets compressed. The air pushes the
piston upwards and the pointer tends to move in anticlockwise direction.

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Fig. 1.6

If the pointer oscillates in anticlockwise direction the piston moves away and the pressure of the
air inside cylinder gets reduced. The external pressure is more than that of the internal pressure.
Therefore the piston moves down wards. The pointer tends to move in clock wise direction.

1.6.2 Eddy current damping

Fig. 1.6 Disc type

An aluminum circular disc is fixed to the spindle (Fig. 1.6). This disc is made to move in the
magnetic field produced by a permanent magnet.

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

When the disc oscillates it cuts the magnetic flux produced by damping magnet. An emf is
induced in the circular disc by faradays law. Eddy currents are established in the disc since it has
several closed paths. By Lenz’s law, the current carrying disc produced a force in a direction
opposite to oscillating force. The damping force can be varied by varying the projection of the
magnet over the circular disc.

Fig. 1.6 Rectangular type

1.7 Permanent Magnet Moving Coil (PMMC) instrument

One of the most accurate type of instrument used for D.C. measurements is PMMC instrument.
Construction: A permanent magnet is used in this type instrument. Aluminum former is
provided in the cylindrical in between two poles of the permanent magnet (Fig. 1.7). Coils are
wound on the aluminum former which is connected with the spindle. This spindle is supported
with jeweled bearing. Two springs are attached on either end of the spindle. The terminals of the
moving coils are connected to the spring. Therefore the current flows through spring 1, moving
coil and spring 2.

Damping: Eddy current damping is used. This is produced by aluminum former.

Control: Spring control is used.

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Fig. 1.7

Principle of operation
When D.C. supply is given to the moving coil, D.C. current flows through it. When the current
carrying coil is kept in the magnetic field, it experiences a force. This force produces a torque
and the former rotates. The pointer is attached with the spindle. When the former rotates, the
pointer moves over the calibrated scale. When the polarity is reversed a torque is produced in the
opposite direction. The mechanical stopper does not allow the deflection in the opposite
direction. Therefore the polarity should be maintained with PMMC instrument.
If A.C. is supplied, a reversing torque is produced. This cannot produce a continuous deflection.
Therefore this instrument cannot be used in A.C.

Torque developed by PMMC

Let Td =deflecting torque

TC = controlling torque

 = angle of deflection
K=spring constant
b=width of the coil

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

l=height of the coil or length of coil

N=No. of turns
I=current
B=Flux density
A=area of the
coil
The force produced in
(1.4)
the coil is given by
F  BIL sin 


(1.5)
When   90
(1.6)
For N turns, F  NBIL
(1.7)
Torque produced Td 
(1.8)
F  r distance
(1.9)
Td  NBIL b  BINA

Td  BANI Torque/weight is high

 Power consumption is less
Td  I  Scale is uniform
 Damping is very effective
Advantages Since operating field is very strong, the effect of stray field is negligible
 Range of instrument can be extended
Disadvantages
 Use only for D.C.
 Cost is high
 Error is produced due to ageing effect of PMMC
 Friction and temperature error are present

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

1.7.1 Extension of range of PMMC instrument

Case-I: Shunt
A low shunt resistance connected in parrel with the ammeter to extent the range of current. Large
current can be measured using low current rated ammeter by using a shunt.

Fig. 1.8

Let Rm =Resistance of meter

Rsh =Resistance of shunt

I m = Current through meter

Ish =current through shunt

(1.10)
I= current to be measure

Vm  Vsh

R  I sh R sh
Imm R m (1.11)
 sh
Rm
I sh

Apply KCL at ‘P’ I  I m  Ish (1.12)

Eqn (1.12) ÷ by I m
I  1 Ish
(1.13)
Im Im

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

I  1  Rm
(1.14)
Im Rsh

 I  I m  1 Rm  (1.15)
  R sh 

1  Rm  is called multiplication factor

 R sh 
Shunt resistance is made of manganin. This has least thermoelectric emf. The change is
resistance, due to change in temperature is negligible.

Case (II): Multiplier

A large resistance is connected in series with voltmeter is called multiplier (Fig. 1.9). A large
voltage can be measured using a voltmeter of small rating with a multiplier.

Fig. 1.9

Let Rm =resistance of meter

Rse =resistance of multiplier

Vm =Voltage across meter

Vse = Voltage across series resistance

I m  IseV= voltage to be measured (1.16)

Vm Vse (1.17)
Rm  R
se
V R
 se  se (1.18)
Vm
Rm

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Apply KVL, V  Vm  Vse (1.19)

Eqn (1.19) ÷ V m
V  1
Vse  1 Rse  (1.20)
m Vm  R m 
V 
V  Vm  1 Rse  (1.21)
  Rm 


 Rse 
1  R   Multiplication factor
 m

8. Moving Iron (MI) instruments

One of the most accurate instrument used for both AC and DC measurement is moving iron
instrument. There are two types of moving iron instrument.
 Attraction type
 Repulsion type
1.8.1 Attraction type M.I. instrument
Construction:The moving iron fixed to the spindle is kept near the hollow fixed coil (Fig. 1.10).
The pointer and balance weight are attached to the spindle, which is supported with jeweled
bearing. Here air friction damping is used.

Principle of operation
The current to be measured is passed through the fixed coil. As the current is flow through the
fixed coil, a magnetic field is produced. By magnetic induction the moving iron gets magnetized.
The north pole of moving coil is attracted by the south pole of fixed coil. Thus the deflecting
force is produced due to force of attraction. Since the moving iron is attached with the spindle,
the spindle rotates and the pointer moves over the calibrated scale. But the force of attraction
depends on the current flowing through the coil.

Torque developed by M.I

Let ‘ ’ be the deflection corresponding to a current of ‘i’ amp
Let the current increases by di, the corresponding deflection is ‘  d ’

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Fig. 1.10
There is change in inductance since the position of moving iron change w.r.t the fixed
electromagnets.
Let the new inductance value be ‘L+dL’. The current change by ‘di’ is dt seconds.
Let the emf induced in the coil be ‘e’ volt.
d di dL
e (Li)  L i

(1.22)
dt dt dt
Multiplying by ‘idt’ in equation (1.22)
di dL
e  idt  L  idt  i  idt

(1.23)
dt dt

e  idt  Lidi  i 2dL

(1.24)

Eqn (1.24) gives the energy is used in to two forms. Part of energy is stored in the inductance.
Remaining energy is converted in to mechanical energy which produces deflection.

Fig. 1.11

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Change in energy stored=Final energy-initial energy stored

1 1
 (L  dL)(i  di)2  Li 2
2 2

1
 {(L  dL)(i2  di2  2idi) 
Li 2 } 2

1
 {(L  dL)(i2  2idi) 
Li 2 } 2

1
 {Li2  2Lidi  i 2 dL  2ididL 
Li 2 } 2

1 2

 Lidi 
1 
{2Lidi i 2 i dL}
dL
2 (1.25)
2
Mechanical work to move the pointer by d
 T d d (1.26)
By law of conservation of energy,
Electrical energy supplied=Increase in stored energy+ mechanical work done.
Input energy= Energy stored + Mechanical energy
1
Lidi  i 2 dL  Lidi  2 i 2 dL  Td d (1.27)

1 2 (1.28)
2 i dL  Td d

Td  1 i 2 dL (1.29)
2
d
At steady state condition Td  TC

1 2 dL
 K (1.30)
2i
d
1 dL (1.31)
  2K
i2 d
  i2 (1.32)

When the instruments measure AC,   i 2 rms

Scale of the instrument is non uniform.

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Advantages
 MI can be used in AC and DC
 It is cheap
 Supply is given to a fixed coil, not in moving coil.
 Simple construction
 Less friction error.
Disadvantages
 It suffers from eddy current and hysteresis error
 Scale is not uniform
 It consumed more power
 Calibration is different for AC and DC operation
1.8.2 Repulsion type moving iron instrument
Construction:The repulsion type instrument has a hollow fixed iron attached to it (Fig. 1.12).
The moving iron is connected to the spindle. The pointer is also attached to the spindle in
supported with jeweled bearing.
Principle of operation: When the current flows through the coil, a magnetic field is produced by
it. So both fixed iron and moving iron are magnetized with the same polarity, since they are kept
in the same magnetic field. Similar poles of fixed and moving iron get repelled. Thus the
deflecting torque is produced due to magnetic repulsion. Since moving iron is attached to spindle,
the spindle will move. So that pointer moves over the calibrated scale.
Damping: Air friction damping is used to reduce the oscillation.
Control: Spring control is used.

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Fig. 1.12

1.9 Dynamometer (or) Electromagnetic moving coil instrument (EMMC)

Fig. 1.13

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

This instrument can be used for the measurement of voltage, current and power. The difference
between the PMMC and dynamometer type instrument is that the permanent magnet is replaced
by an electromagnet.

Construction:A fixed coil is divided in to two equal half. The moving coil is placed between the
two half of the fixed coil. Both the fixed and moving coils are air cored. So that the hysteresis
effect will be zero. The pointer is attached with the spindle. In a non metallic former the moving
coil is wounded.
Control: Spring control is used.
Damping: Air friction damping is used.
Principle of operation:

When the current flows through the fixed coil, it produced a magnetic field, whose flux density is
proportional to the current through the fixed coil. The moving coil is kept in between the fixed
coil. When the current passes through the moving coil, a magnetic field is produced by this coil.

The magnetic poles are produced in such a way that the torque produced on the moving coil
deflects the pointer over the calibrated scale. This instrument works on AC and DC. When AC
voltage is applied, alternating current flows through the fixed coil and moving coil. When the
current in the fixed coil reverses, the current in the moving coil also reverses. Torque remains in
the same direction. Since the current i1 and i2 reverse simultaneously. This is because the fixed
and moving coils are either connected in series or parallel.

Torque developed by EMMC

Fig. 1.14

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Let
L1=Self inductance of fixed coil
L2= Self inductance of moving coil
M=mutual inductance between
fixed coil and moving coil
i1=current through fixed coil
i2=current through moving coil
Total inductance of system,
(1.33)
Ltotal  L1  L2  2M

But we know that in case of

Td  1 i 2 d (L)
M.I (1.34)
2
d
1 d
Td 2i 2 (L  L1  2M
2 ) (1.35)
d
The value of L1 and L2 are independent of ‘ ’ but ‘M’ varies with 

1 dM (1.36)
Td 2i 2  2
d
Td  i 2 dM (1.37)
d

If the coils are not connected in series i1  i2

d dM1 2 (1.38)
T  i i
d
(1.39)
TC  T d (1.40)
i i2 dM
  1 K d

Hence the deflection of pointer is proportional to the current passing through fixed coil and
moving coil.

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

1.9.1 Extension of EMMC instrument

Case-I Ammeter connection
Fixed coil and moving coil are connected in parallel for ammeter connection. The coils are
designed such that the resistance of each branch is same.
Therefore

I1  I 2  I

Fig. 1.15

To extend the range of current a shunt may be connected in parallel with the meter. The value
Rsh is designed such that equal current flows through moving coil and fixed coil.

dM
Td  I 1 I 2 (1.41)
d

Or Td  I 2 dM (1.42)
d

TC  K  (1.43)
I 2 dM

(1.44)
K d

  I 2 (Scale is not uniform) (1.45)

Case-II Voltmeter connection

Fixed coil and moving coil are connected in series for voltmeter connection. A multiplier may be
connected in series to extent the range of voltmeter.

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Fig. 1.16

V1 V (1.46)
I1 ,I 2 2
Z1
Z2
V V dM (1.47)
Td  1  2 
Z1 Z 2
d
K1V K2V dM (1.48)
Td   
Z1 Z2
d
KV 2  (1.49)
Td 
dM
Z 1Z2
d
Td  V 2 (1.50)

(Scale in not uniform) (1.51)

  V 2
Case-III As wattmeter

When the two coils are connected to parallel, the instrument can be used as a wattmeter. Fixed
coil is connected in series with the load. Moving coil is connected in parallel with the load. The
moving coil is known as voltage coil or pressure coil and fixed coil is known as current coil.

Fig. 1.17

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Assume that the supply voltage is sinusoidal. If the impedance of the coil is neglected in
comparison with the resistance ‘R’. The current,

I 2  vm sin wt (1.52)
R
Let the phase difference between the currents I1 and I2 is 

I1  I m sin(wt  ) (1.53)

dM (1.54)
Td  I 1 I2 d

V sin wt dM
Td  I m sin(wt   )  mR (1.55)
d
1 m wt sin(wt   ))
Td R(I Vmsin
dM (1.56)
d
1 m wt.sin(wt   )
Td RI V msin
dM (1.57)
d
The average deflecting torque

1 2
 T  d wt (1.58)
(Td )avg 2 0 d

2
1 1 dM
) 
(Td avg   I mVm sin wt.sin(wt   ) d (1.59)
2 0 R wt d


)  Vm Im  1  dM 
(Td avg (1.60)
{cos  cos(2wt   )}dwt 
2  2 R  
d
VI  2
2

)  mm 
(Td avg dM   cos.dwt   cos(2wt  (1.61)
4R 0 
d ).dwt
V I
)  mm 
(Td avg
4R
dM cos 

wt 0
2 0
(1.62)

d 
V I
(Td )avg  m m 
4R
dM
cos(2  0) (1.63)
d
(Td )avg
V I
 m2 m  R
1 dM
 cos (1.64)
d
(Td )avg  Vrms  Irms  cos  
1 dM (1.65)
R
d

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

(Td )avg  KVI cos (1.66)

TC   (1.67)

(1.68)
  KVI cos 
(1.69)
  VI cos
Advantages
 It can be used for voltmeter, ammeter and wattmeter
 Hysteresis error is nill
 Eddy current error is nill
 Damping is effective
 It can be measure correctively and accurately the rms value of the voltage

Disadvantages
 Scale is not uniform
 Power consumption is high(because of high resistance )
 Cost is more
 Error is produced due to frequency, temperature and stray field.
 Torque/weight is low.(Because field strength is very low)

Errors in PMMC
 The permanent magnet produced error due to ageing effect. By heat treatment, this error
can be eliminated.
 The spring produces error due to ageing effect. By heat treating the spring the error can be
eliminated.
 When the temperature changes, the resistance of the coil vary and the spring also produces
error in deflection. This error can be minimized by using a spring whose temperature co-
efficient is very low.
1.10 Difference between attraction and repulsion type instrument
An attraction type instrument will usually have a lower inductance, compare to repulsion type
instrument. But in other hand, repulsion type instruments are more suitable for economical
production in manufacture and nearly uniform scale is more easily obtained. They are therefore
much more common than attraction type.

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

1.11 Characteristics of meter

1. Full scale deflection current( I FSD )

The current required to bring the pointer to full-scale or extreme right side of the
instrument is called full scale deflection current. It must be as small as possible. Typical value is
between 2  A to 30mA.

2. Resistance of the coil( Rm )

This is ohmic resistance of the moving coil. It is due to  , L and A. For an ammeter this should
be as small as possible.
3. Sensitivity of the meter(S)

1 V Z
S  IFSD ( / volt), S 
It is also called ohms/volt rating of the instrument. Larger the sensitivity of an instrument, more
accurate is the instrument. It is measured in Ω/volt. When the sensitivity is high, the impedance
of meter is high. Hence it draws less current and loading affect is negligible. It is also defend as
one over full scale deflection current.
12. Error in M.I instrument
1. Temperature error
Due to temperature variation, the resistance of the coil varies. This affects the deflection of the
instrument. The coil should be made of manganin, so that the resistance is almost constant.

2. Hysteresis error
Due to hysteresis affect the reading of the instrument will not be correct. When the current is
decreasing, the flux produced will not decrease suddenly. Due to this the meter reads a higher
value of current. Similarly when the current increases the meter reads a lower value of current.
This produces error in deflection. This error can be eliminated using small iron parts with narrow
hysteresis loop so that the demagnetization takes place very quickly.

3. Eddy current error

The eddy currents induced in the moving iron affect the deflection. This error can be reduced by
increasing the resistance of the iron.

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

4. Stray field error

Since the operating field is weak, the effect of stray field is more. Due to this, error is produced in
deflection. This can be eliminated by shielding the parts of the instrument.

5. Frequency error
When the frequency changes the reactance of the coil changes.

Z (Rm  RS )2  X L2 (1.70)
V V
I  (1.71)
Z 2 2
(Rm  RS )  X L

Fig. 1.18

Deflection of moving iron voltmeter depends upon the current through the coil. Therefore,
deflection for a given voltage will be less at higher frequency than at low frequency. A capacitor
is connected in parallel with multiplier resistance. The net reactance, ( X L  X C ) is very small,
when compared to the series resistance. Thus the circuit impedance is made independent of
frequency. This is because of the circuit is almost resistive.
L
C  0.41 (1.72)
(RS )2

1.13 Electrostatic instrument

In multi cellular construction several vans and quadrants are provided. The voltage is to be
measured is applied between the vanes and quadrant. The force of attraction between the vanes

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

and quadrant produces a deflecting torque. Controlling torque is produced by spring control. Air
friction damping is used.

The instrument is generally used for measuring medium and high voltage. The voltage is reduced
to low value by using capacitor potential divider. The force of attraction is proportional to the
square of the voltage.

Fig. 1.19
Torque develop by electrostatic instrument
V=Voltage applied between vane and quadrant
C=capacitance between vane and quadrant
1
Energy stored= CV 2 (1.73)
2
Let ‘  ’ be the deflection corresponding to a voltage V.
Let the voltage increases by dv, the corresponding deflection is’  d ’
When the voltage is being increased, a capacitive current flows

dq d (CV ) dC dV (1.74)
i   VC
dt dt dt dt
V  dt multiply on both side of
equation (1.74)
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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Fig. 1.20

dC dV (1.75)
Vidt  V 2dt  CV dt
dt dt
(1.76)
Vidt  V 2dC  CVdV
1 1
Change in stored energy= (C  dC)(V  dV )2  CV 2 (1.77)
2
2


2

1
(C  dC)V  dV  2VdV 
2
2
1 2

 CV  CdV  2CVdV  V dC  dCdV 

2
CV1 1
2 2 2 2
 2VdVdC 
2 2
CV1 2 2
 V dC  CVdV
2
1
V 2dC  CVdV  V 2dC  CVdV  F  (1.78)
rd
2
Td d  2V 2 dC
1 (1.79)

Td  1 V 2  dC  (1.80)
2  d 
At steady state condition, Td  TC

K  1 V 2  dC  (1.81)
2  d 
1 dC 
 V2  (1.82)
2K  d 

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Advantages
 It is used in both AC and DC.
 There is no frequency error.
 There is no hysteresis error.
 There is no stray magnetic field error. Because the instrument works on electrostatic
principle.
 It is used for high voltage
 Power consumption is negligible.
Disadvantages
 Scale is not uniform
 Large in size
 Cost is more
1.14 Multi range Ammeter
When the switch is connected to position (1), the supplied current I1

Fig. 1.21

(1.83)
Ish1Rsh1  I m Rm

Rsh1  I m Rm  I m Rm (1.84)
I I1  I m
sh1

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Rsh1  Rm , Rsh1  Rm I
I1 1 , m1  1  Multiplying power of shunt
m1 1 Im
Im

Rsh2  Rm , m2  I 2 (1.85)
m2  1
Im
Rsh3  Rm , m3 (1.86)
m3 1 I3


Rsh4  Rm , m4 Im (1.87)
m4  1
1.15 Ayrton shunt  I 4
Im (1.88)
R1  Rsh1  Rsh2
(1.89)
R2  Rsh2  Rsh3
(1.90)

(1.91)
R3  Rsh3  Rsh4

R4  Rsh4

Fig. 1.22
Ayrton shunt is also called universal shunt. Ayrton shunt has more sections of resistance. Taps are
brought out from various points of the resistor. The variable points in the o/p can be
connected to any position. Various meters require different types of shunts. The Aryton shunt is
used in the lab, so that any value of resistance between minimum and maximum specified can be
used. It eliminates the possibility of having the meter in the circuit without a shunt.

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

1.16 Multi range D.C. voltmeter

Fig. 1.23

Rs1  Rm (m1 1)

(1.92)
Rs2  Rm (m2  1)

Rs3  Rm (m3 1)

V1 V V3 (1.93)
m1 , m 2 2 , m 3
Vm Vm
Vm
We can obtain different Voltage ranges by connecting different value of multiplier resistor in
series with the meter. The number of these resistors is equal to the number of ranges required.

1.17 Potential divider arrangement

The resistance R1, R2, R3 and R4 is connected in series to obtained the ranges V1,V2,V3 and V4

37
 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Fig. 1.24

Consider for voltage V1, (R1  Rm )I m  V1

 R1  V1  Rm  V1  R    V1  (1.94)
Im V m  R  Rm
( m)  Vm  m
Rm

R1  (m1 1)Rm (1.95)

For V2 , (R 2  R1  Rm )I m  V2  R2 V2  R1 R m (1.96)


Im
R2 V2 (1.97)
 (m1 1)Rm  Rm

 Vm
 

 Rm 
R2  m2Rm  Rm  (m1 1)Rm
(1.98)
 Rm (m2 1 m1 1)
(1.99)
R2  (m2  m1)Rm
For V3 R3  R2  R1  Rm Im  V3

R3  V3  R2 R 1 R m

Im
V
 3 R m  (m2  m1 )Rm  (m1 1)Rm  m
Vm
R
 m3Rm  (m2  m1)Rm  (m1 1)Rm  Rm

R3  (m3  m2 )Rm

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

For V4 R4  R3  R2  R1  Rm Im  V4

R4  V4  R3 R 2 R 1R m

Im
V 
  V 4 Rm  (m3  m2 )Rm  (m2  m1)Rm  (m1 1)Rm  Rm
 m
R4  Rm m4  m3  m2  m2  m1  m1  1 1
R4  m4  m3 Rm

Example: 1.1
A PMMC ammeter has the following specification
Flux density is
Coil dimension are 1cm 1cm. Spring constant is 0.15  106 N  m / rad ,
1.5 10 3
wb / m 2 .Determine the no. of turns required to produce a deflection of 900 when a current

2mA flows through the coil.

Solution:

At steady state condition Td  TC

BANI  K

K
N
BAI

A=1104
m2

K= 0.15
Nm
106
r
a
d

B=1.5
103 wb /
m2

I= 2 103
A

  90   39
rad
2
 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

The pointer of a moving coil instrument gives full scale deflection of 20mA. The potential
difference across the meter when carrying 20mA is 400mV.The instrument to be used is 200A for
full scale deflection. Find the shunt resistance required to achieve this, if the instrument to be
used as a voltmeter for full scale reading with 1000V. Find the series resistance to be connected
it?
Solution:
Case-1

Vm
=400mV

Im 
20mA
V 400
Rm  m 
I=200A  20
Im 20

I  I m  1 Rm 
  R sh 


200  20 103 20 
 R 
 sh 
1
Rsh  2 103 

Case-II
V=1000V

V  Vm  1 Rse 
  Rm 

 R 
4000  400 103  1 se 
  20 
Rse  49.98k

Example: 1.3
A 150 v moving iron voltmeter is intended for 50HZ, has a resistance of 3kΩ. Find the series
resistance required to extent the range of instrument to 300v. If the 300V instrument is used to
measure a d.c. voltage of 200V. Find the voltage across the meter?

Solution:
Rm  3k ,Vm  150V ,V  300V

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015


V  Vm  1 R se 
  Rm 

 R 
300   se   Rse 
1501 3  3k


Case-II V  Vm  1 R se 
  Rm 

200   3
m 1  
V  3

Vm  100V Ans

Example: 1.4
What is the value of series resistance to be used to extent ‘0’to 200V range of 20,000Ω/volt
voltmeter to 0 to 2000 volt?

Solution:

Vse  V V  1800

1 1
I FSD  
20000 Sensitivity

Vse  Rse  iFSD  Rse  36M ans.

Example: 1.5
A moving coil instrument whose resistance is 25Ω gives a full scale deflection with a current of
1mA. This instrument is to be used with a manganin shunt, to extent its range to 100mA.
Calculate the error caused by a 100C rise in temperature when:
(a) Copper moving coil is connected directly across the manganin shunt.
(b)A 75 ohm manganin resistance is used in series with the instrument moving coil.
The temperature co-efficient of copper is 0.004/0C and that of manganin is 0.000150/C.
Solution:
Case-1
Im 
1mA
41
Rm 
25
 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

I=100mA

I  I m  1 Rm 
  R sh 


 25  25  99
100  1 1  R   R
 sh  sh

25
 Rsh  99 0.2525

Instrument resistance for 100C rise in temperature, Rmt  25(1  0.00410)

Rt  Ro (1 t  t)
R   26
m / t 10

Shunt resistance for 100C, rise in temperature

R   0.2525(1  0.0001510)  0.2529

sh / t 10

Current through the meter for 100mA in the main circuit for 100C rise in temperature
I  I m  1 Rm  
R t 10 C
  sh 

100  I  26 
mt 1 
0.2529 
Im t 10
 0.963mA

But normal meter current=1mA

Error due to rise in temperature=(0.963-1)*100=-3.7%
Case-b As voltmeter

Total resistance in the meter circuit= Rm  Rsh  25  75  100

I  I m  1 Rm 
  R sh 

100  1 1  100 

 R

sh 
100
Rsh  1001.01
1

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Resistance of the instrument circuit for 100C rise in temperature

Rm t 10  25(1  0.004 10)  75(1  0.00015 10)  101.11

Shunt resistance for 100C rise in temperature

Rsh t 10
 1.01(1  0.00015 10)  1.0115

I  I m  1 Rm 
  R sh 

100  I 1  101.11 

m
 1.0115 

Im t  10  0.9905mA

Error =(0.9905-1)*100=-0.95%

Example: 1.6
The coil of a 600V M.I meter has an inductance of 1 henery. It gives correct reading at 50HZ and
requires 100mA. For its full scale deflection, what is % error in the meter when connected to
200V D.C. by comparing with 200V A.C?

Solution:

Vm  600V , I m  100mA

Case-I A.C.
Vm 600
Zm    6000
Im 0.1

X L  2fL  314

Rm  Z m 2  X L2  (6000)2  (314)2  5990

200
I AC  V AC   33.33mA
Z 6000
Case-II D.C

VDC 200
I DC    33.39mA
Rm 5990

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

I DC  I AC 33.39  33.33
Error= 100  33.33 100  0.18%
I AC

Example: 1.7
A 250V M.I. voltmeter has coil resistance of 500Ω, coil inductance 0f 1.04 H and series
resistance of 2kΩ. The meter reads correctively at 250V D.C. What will be the value of
capacitance to be used for shunting the series resistance to make the meter read correctly at
50HZ? What is the reading of voltmeter on A.C. without capacitance?

L
Solution: C  0.41
(RS )2

1.04
 0.41  0.1F (2
3 2
10 )
For A.C Z  (Rm  RSe )2  X 2L

Z (500  2000)2  (314)2 

2520
With D.C

Rtotal  2500

For 2500Ω  250V

1Ω  250
2500
250
2520Ω  2500 2520  248V

Example: 1.8
The relationship between inductance of moving iron ammeter, the current and the position of
pointer is as follows:
Reading (A) 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8
Deflection (degree) 36.5 49.5 61.5 74.5
Inductance ( H ) 575.2 576.5 577.8 578.8
Calculate the deflecting torque and the spring constant when the current is 1.5A?
Solution:
For current I=1.5A,  =55.5 degree=0.96865 rad

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

dL 577.65  576.5
  0.11H / deg ree  6.3H / rad
d 60  49.5
1 dL 1 6 6
Deflecting torque , Td  2I 2 d (1.5)
2
2  6.3 10  7.09 10 N  m

7.09 10 6
Td 6 Nm
Spring constant, K   0.968  7.319 rad

10

Fig. 1.25
Example: 1.9
For a certain dynamometer ammeter the mutual inductance ‘M’ varies with deflection  as

M  6 cos(  30)mH .Find the deflecting torque produced by a direct current of 50mA
corresponding to a deflection of 600.
Solution:

T I I dM dM
d 12  I 2 d
d

M  6 cos(  30 )

dM
d  6 sin(  30)mH
dM
 60  6 sin 90  6mH /
d deg
dM
Td  I 2 d (50 103 )2  6 103  15 106 N  m

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Example: 1.10
The inductance of a moving iron ammeter with a full scale deflection of 900 at 1.5A, is given by

the expression L  200  40  4 2   3H , where  is deflection in radian from the zero
position. Estimate the angular deflection of the pointer for a current of 1.0A.

Solution:

L  200  40  4 2  
3
H
dL
 40  8  3 2H /


d  90 rad
dL  

 40  8   3( ) 2 H / rad  20H /
d  90 rad
2 2
2
  1 I  dL 
2K  d 

 1 (1.5)2 20 106
2 2 K 

K=Spring constant=14.32106 N  m / rad

For I=1A,   1 I 2  dL 
2K  d 
1
   (1)2
2 14.32 10 6

40  8  32

3  36.64 2  40  0

  1.008rad,57.8
Example: 1.11

The inductance of a moving iron instrument is given by L  10  5   2   3H , where  is

the deflection in radian from zero position. The spring constant is 12 106 N  m / rad .
Estimate the deflection for a current of 5A.
Solution:

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

dL H
 (5  2 )
d rad

  1 I 2  dL 
2K  d 
1 (5)2
   ( 2 ) 10 6
2 5

  1.69rad,96.8 
12 106
Example: 1.12
The following figure gives the relation between deflection and inductance of a moving iron
instrument.
Deflection (degree) 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
Inductance ( H ) 335 345 355.5 366.5 376.5 385 391.2 396.5
Find the current and the torque to give a deflection of (a) 300 (b) 800 . Given that control spring

constant is 0.4 106 N  m / deg ree

Solution:

  1 I 2  dL 
2K  d 

(a) For   30

The curve is linear

 dL 

355.5  335
 40   1.075H / deg ree  58.7H / rad
 d  30
20

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Fig. 1.26
Example: 1.13
In an electrostatic voltmeter the full scale deflection is obtained when the moving plate turns
through 900. The torsional constant is 10  106 N  m / rad . The relation between the angle of
deflection and capacitance between the fixed and moving plates is given by
Deflection (degree) 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
Capacitance (PF) 81.4 121 156 189.2 220 246 272 294 316 334
Find the voltage applied to the instrument when the deflection is 900?
Solution:

Fig. 1.27

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

dC bc 370  250
 tan     1.82PF / deg ree  104.2PF / rad
d ab 110  44

Nm
Spring constant K  10 106  0.1745 106 N  m / deg
ree rad
  2K
V 2   d V 
  12K dC
dC
d

V 2  0.1745 106   549volt

90 104.2 1012
Example: 1.14
Design a multi range d.c. mille ammeter using a basic movement with an internal resistance
Rm  50 and a full scale deflection current I m  1mA . The ranges required are 0-10mA; 0-50mA;

0-100mA and 0-500mA.

Solution:
Case-I 0-10mA
10
Multiplying power m  I   10
Im

1
 Shunt resistance Rsh1  Rm 50
m  1  10  5.55
1
Case-II 0-50mA
50
m  50
1

Rsh2  Rm  50  1.03
m  1 50 
1 100
Case-III 0-100mA, m   100
1

Rsh3  Rm  50  0.506
m  1 100 
1 500
Case-IV 0-500mA, m   500
1

R sh4  Rm  50  0.1
m  1 500 
1
Example: 1.15

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

A moving coil voltmeter with a resistance of 20Ω gives a full scale deflection of 1200, when a
potential difference of 100mV is applied across it. The moving coil has dimension of
30mm*25mm and is wounded with 100 turns. The control spring constant is

0.375 106 N  m / deg ree. Find the flux density, in the air gap. Find also the diameter of
copper wire of coil winding if 30% of instrument resistance is due to coil winding. The
specific

resistance for copper=1.7 108 m .

Solution:
Data given

Vm  100mV

Rm  20

  120
N=100

K  0.375 106 N  m / deg ree

RC  30%ofRm
V
I m  m  5 10 3 A
Rm
  1.7 108 m
Td  BANI ,TC  K  0.375 106 120  45 106 N  m
Td 45 106
B   0.12wb / 2
m
ANI 30  25 106 100  5 103
RC  0.3 20  6

Length of mean turn path =2(a+b) =2(55)=110mm

RC  N  l 
A
8
A  N    (lt ) 100 1.7 10 110
3
10R C
6

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

 3.116108 m2

 31.16 103 mm2


A d 2  d  0.2mm
4
Example: 1.16
A moving coil instrument gives a full scale deflection of 10mA, when the potential difference
across its terminal is 100mV. Calculate

(1) The shunt resistance for a full scale deflection corresponding to 100A
(2) The resistance for full scale reading with 1000V.
Calculate the power dissipation in each case?

Solution:

Data given

Im  10mA

Vm  100mV
 I100 1A R 
II  m m
  R sh 

100  10 103 1 
 10 
 R
3
Rsh  1.00110sh 

Rse  ??,V  1000V

Vm 100
Rm    10
Im 10


V  Vm  1 Rse 
  Rm 

 Rse 
1000  100 103  1 
  10 
 Rse  99.99K

Example: 1.17

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Design an Aryton shunt to provide an ammeter with current ranges of 1A,5A,10A and 20A. A
basic meter with an internal resistance of 50w and a full scale deflection current of 1mA is to be
used.
Solution: Data given

I1
m1  1000 A
Im
I1  1A I2
m2  5000 A
I m  1103 A I 2  5A Im
Rm  50 I3  10 A 3
m I
I 4 20 A  I3m 10000 A

I4
m4  20000 A
Im

Rsh1  Rm 50
  0.05
m1  1 1000 
1
Rsh2  Rm 50
  0.01
m2 1 5000 
1
Rsh3  Rm  
m50
3  1 10000
0.005 
1 Rm
Rsh4  50
  0.0025
m4 1 20000 
1
The resistances of the various section of the universal shunt are

R1  Rsh1  Rsh2  0.05  0.01  0.04

R2  Rsh2  Rsh3  0.01  0.005  0.005 R3

 Rsh3  Rsh4  0.005  0.025  0.0025 R4

 Rsh4  0.0025

Example: 1.18 Rm  100 and a full scale

current
A basicofd’IArsonval
m  1mA ismeter
to bemovement
converted with
in to a multi range d.c. voltmeter with ranges of 0-10V, 0-
50V, 0-250V,
an internal 0-500V. Find the values of various resistances using the potential divider
resistance
arrangement.
Solution:
Data given

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

V1 10
m1    100
Rm  100
Vm 100 103
V2 50
I m  1mA m2    500
Vm 100 103
Vm  Im  Rm 3 V3 250  2500
m3 
Vm 100 103
Vm  100 110
V4 500
Vm  100mV m4    5000
Vm 100 103
R1  (m1 1)Rm  (100 1) 100  9900
R2  (m2  m1)Rm  (500 100) 100  40K
R3  (m3  m2 )Rm  (2500  500) 100  200K
R4  (m4  m3 )Rm  (5000  2500) 100  250K

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

AC BRIDGES

2.1 General form of A.C. bridge

AC bridge are similar to D.C. bridge in topology(way of connecting).It consists of four arm
AB,BC,CD and DA .Generally the impedance to be measured is connected between ‘A’ and ‘B’.
A detector is connected between ‘B’ and ’D’. The detector is used as null deflection instrument.
Some of the arms are variable element. By varying these elements, the potential values at ‘B’ and
‘D’ can be made equal. This is called balancing of the bridge.

Fig. 2.1 General form of A.C. bridge

At the balance condition, the current through detector is zero.
. .
 I1  I 3
. .
I 2 I 4
. .
I I (2.1)
 . 1  3.
I2 I
4

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

At balance condition,

Voltage drop across ‘AB’=voltage drop across ‘AD’.

. .
E1  E 2
. . . .
 I1 Z1  I 2 Z 2 (2.2)
Similarly,
Voltage drop
across
‘BC’=voltage
drop. across
. . .
‘DC’
I3Z3  I4Z4 (2.3)
.
. .
.
From Eqn. E 3  we have  I 1  Z 2
(2.2), (2.4)
. .
E4 I2 Z1

. .
From Eqn. (2.3), we have I Z (2.5)
 . 3  4.
I4 Z
3

From equation -2.1, it can be seen that, equation -2.4 and equation-2.5 are equal.

. .
Z2 Z4
 
. .
Z1 Z3

. . . .
 Z 1Z 4  Z 2 Z3

Products of impedances of opposite arms are equal.

 Z 1  1 Z 4   4  Z 2   2 Z 3   3

 Z1 Z 4   1   4  Z 2 Z 3   2   3

Z1 Z 4 = Z 2 Z 3

1  4  2  3

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

 For balance condition, magnitude on either side must be equal.

 Angle on either side must be equal.

Summary
For balance condition,
. . . .
 I1  I 3 , I 2  I 4

 Z1 Z 4 = Z 2 Z 3

 1  4  2  3
. . .
& E 3 E 4
.
 detector
2. Types of E1  E 2

The following types of instruments are used as detector in A.C. bridge.

 Vibration galvanometer

 Head phones (speaker)

 Tuned amplifier

2.2.1 Vibration galvanometer

Between the point ‘B’ and ‘D’ a vibration galvanometer is connected to indicate the bridge
balance condition. This A.C. galvanometer which works on the principle of resonance. The
A.C. galvanometer shows a dot, if the bridge is unbalanced.
2. Head phones
Two speakers are connected in parallel in this system. If the bridge is unbalanced, the
speaker produced more sound energy. If the bridge is balanced, the speaker do not produced
any sound energy.

3. Tuned amplifier

If the bridge is unbalanced the output of tuned amplifier is high. If the bridge is balanced,
output of amplifier is zero.

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

3. Measurements of inductance

1. Maxwell’s inductance bridge

The choke for which R1 and L1 have to measure connected between the points ‘A’ and ‘B’.
In this method the unknown inductance is measured by comparing it with the standard
inductance.

Fig. 2.2 Maxwell’s inductance bridge

L2 is adjusted, until the detector indicates zero current.

Let R1= unknown resistance
L1= unknown inductance of the choke.
L2= known standard inductance
R1,R2,R4= known resistances.

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Fig 2.3 Phasor diagram of Maxwell’s inductance bridge

. . . .
At balance condition, Z 1 Z 4  Z 2 Z 3

(R1  jXL1)R4  (R2  jXL2 )R3

(R1  jwL1)R4  (R2  jwL2 )R3

R1R4  jwL1R4  R2 R3  jwL2 R3

Comparing real part,

R1R4  R2 R3
R R (2.6)
 R1  2 3
R4

Comparing the imaginary parts,

wL1R4  wL2 R3

L R (2.7)
L1 2 3
R4

WL1 WL2 R3R4

Q-factor of choke, Q  
R1 R4 R2
R3
WL2 (2.8)
Q
R2

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Advantages

 Expression for R1 and L1 are simple.

 Equations area simple
 They do not depend on the frequency (as w is cancelled)
 R1 and L1 are independent of each other.

Disadvantages

 Variable inductor is costly.

 Variable inductor is bulky.

2.3.2 Maxwell’s inductance capacitance bridge

Unknown inductance is measured by comparing it with standard capacitance. In this bridge,

balance condition is achieved by varying ‘C4’.

Fig 2.4 Maxwell’s inductance capacitance bridge

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

At balance condition, Z1Z4=Z3Z2 (2.9)

1
R4
Z 4  R4 || 1  jwC4
jwC 4 1
R4 
jwC4

Z4  R4  R4 (2.10)
jwR4C4 1 1 jwR4C4

Substituting the value of Z4 from eqn. (2.10) in eqn. (2.9) we get

R4  R2R3
(R1  jwL1) 
1  jwR4C4

Fig 2.5 Phasor diagram of Maxwell’s inductance capacitance bridge

(R1  jwL1)R4  R2 R3 (1 jwR4C4 )

R1R4  jwL1R4  R2 R3  jwC4 R4 R2 R3

Comparing real parts,

R1R4  R2 R3

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

 R1  R2 R3 (2.11)
R4

Comparing imaginary part,

wL1R4  wC4 R4 R2 R3

L1  C4 R2 R3 (2.12)

Q-factor of choke,

WL1 R4
Q  w C 4R2R3 
R1 R2 R3

Q  wC4R4 (2.13)

Advantages

 Equation of L1 and R1 are simple.

 They are independent of frequency.
 They are independent of each other.
 Standard capacitor is much smaller in size than standard inductor.

Disadvantages

 Standard variable capacitance is costly.

 It can be used for measurements of Q-factor in the ranges of 1 to 10.
 It cannot be used for measurements of choke with Q-factors more than 10.
We know that Q =wC4R4

For measuring chokes with higher value of Q-factor, the value of C4 and R4 should be
higher. Higher values of standard resistance are very expensive. Therefore this bridge cannot be
used for higher value of Q-factor measurements.

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

2.3.3 Hay’s bridge

Fig 2.6 Hay’s bridge

.
 E1  I1R1  jI1X1

. . .
 E  E1  E 3
. .
 E 4  I 4 R4  I4
jwC4
.
 E3 
I3 R 3
Z 4 R 4 1 1
 
jwR4C4 jwC4
jwC4

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Fig 2.7 Phasor diagram of Hay’s bridge

At balance condition, Z1Z4=Z3Z2

(R1 jwL1)( 1  jwR4C4 )  R 2R 3

jwC 4

(R1  jwL1)(1 jwR4C4 )  jwR2C4 R3

R1  jwC4 R4 R1  jwL1  j 2 w 2 L1C4 R4  jwC4 R2 R3

(R1  w2L1C4R4 )  j(wC4 R4R1  wL1)  jwC4 R2R3

Comparing the real term,

R1  w2 L1C4 R4  0
R1  w2 L1C4 R4 (2.14)

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Comparing the imaginary terms,

wC4R4R1  wL1  wC4R2R3

C4 R4 R1  L1  C4 R2 R3

L1  C4 R2 R3  C4 R4 (2.15)
R1
Substituting the value of R1 fro eqn. 2.14 into eqn. 2.15, we have,

L1  C4 R2 R3  C4 R4  w2 L1C4

R4 L1  C4 R2 R3  w2 L1C42 R42

L1(1 w2 L1C42 R42 )  C4 R2 R3

L1  C4 R2 R3 (2.16)
2 2 2
1 w L1 C4 R 4

Substituting the value of L1 in eqn. 2.14 , we have

w 2 C 4 2 R2 R3R4 (2.17)
R1 
2 2 2
1 w C 4 R4

2 2 2
Q  wL1  w C4 R2 R3  1 w C4 R4
R1 1 w 2 C 4 2 R 4 2 w2 C 42 R4 R2
R3
1 (2.18)
Q
wC4 R4

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Advantages

 Fixed capacitor is cheaper than variable capacitor.

 This bridge is best suitable for measuring high value of Q-factor.

Disadvantages

 Equations of L1and R1 are complicated.

 Measurements of R1 and L1 require the value of frequency.
 This bridge cannot be used for measuring low Q- factor.

2.3.4 Owen’s bridge

Fig 2.8 Owen’s bridge

 E1  I1R1  jI1X1

 I4 leads E4 by 900

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. .
.
 E  E1  E 3
. I2
 E 2  I 2 R2  jwC
2

Fig 2.9 Phasor diagram of Owen’s bridge

. . . .
Balance condition, Z 1 Z 4  Z 2 Z 3

Z 2 R 2  1 jwC2 R2 1

jwC2 jwC2

(R 1  jwL1)  1  (12 jwR

2 3

C )  R jwC 4

C2 (R1  jwL1)  R3C4 (1 jwR

jwC 2 2C2 )

R1C2  jwL1C2  R3C4  jwR2C2 R3C4

Comparing real terms,

R1C2  R3C4

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R1  R3C4
C2

Comparing imaginary terms,

wL1C2  wR2C2 R3C4

L1  R2 R3C4

Q- factor = WL1 wR2 R3C4C2


R1 R3C4
Q  wR2C2

Advantages
 Expression for R1 and L1 are simple.
 R1 and L1 are independent of Frequency.
Disadvantages
 The Circuits used two capacitors.
 Variable capacitor is costly.
 Q-factor range is restricted.

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2.3.5 Anderson’s bridge

Fig 2.10 Anderson’s bridge

.
 E1  I1(R1  r1)  jI1X1

 E3  EC

. .
 E 4  I C r EC

 I 2  I 4  IC

  
 E 2 E 4
E
  
 E1  E 3 
E

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Fig 2.11 Phasor diagram of Anderson’s bridge

1
Step-1 Take I as1 references vector .Draw I R in
1 1phase with I 1

1
R11  (R 1 r 1) , I X1 1 is  r to I R1 1

E1  I 1R11 jI X1 1
Step-2 I1  I 3 , E3 is in phase with I3 , From the circuit ,

E3  EC , IC leads EC by 900
Step-3
E4  I C r  EC
  
Step-4 Draw I 4 in phase with E4 , By KCL , I 2  I 4  I C

Step-5 Draw E2 in phase with I2

  
Step-6  

By KVL , E1 E3  E or E2  E4  E

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Fig 2.12 Equivalent delta to star conversion for the loop MON

Z7  R4  r  jwCR4 r
1 1  jwC (R 4 
R4  r 
jwc r)
1
R4
Z6  jwC  R4
1 1 jwC(R4  r)
R4  r 
jwc

(R1  jwL )  R4  R3(R  jwCR4r )

1 1 2
1  jwC(R4  r) 1  jwC(R4  r)
1
 (R1  jwL 1)R 4  R  R2(1 jwC(R 4r))  jwCrR  4
3
1 jwC(R4  r)  1 jwC(R4  r) 
 R1R  jwL R  R R  jCwR R (r  R )  jwCrR R
1 4 1 4 2 3 2 3 4
4 3

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Fig 2.13 Simplified diagram of Anderson’s bridge

Comparing real term,

R11R 4 R R2 3

(R1  r1)R4  R2 R3

R2 R3
R1 r 1
R4
Comparing the imaginary term,

wL1R4  wCR2 R3 (r  R4 )  wcrR3R4

R2 R3C
L1 (r  R ) 4 R rC3
R4

L1  R 3C R2 (r  R4)  r 
 R4 
Advantages

 Variable capacitor is not required.

 Inductance can be measured accurately.
 R1 and L1 are independent of frequency.
 Accuracy is better than other bridges.

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Disadvantages

 Expression for R1 and L1 are complicated.

 This is not in the standard form A.C. bridge.

4. Measurement of capacitance and loss angle. (Dissipation factor)

1. Dissipation factors (D)

A practical capacitor is represented as the series combination of small resistance and ideal
capacitance.

From the vector diagram, it can be seen that the angle between voltage and current is
slightly less than 900. The angle ‘  ’ is called loss angle.

Fig 2.14 Condensor or capacitor

Fig 2.15 Representation of a practical capacitor

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Fig 2.16 Vector diagram for a practical capacitor

A dissipation factor is defined as ‘tan  ’.

IR R
tan     wCR
IX C XC
D  wCR
1
D
Q

sin   For small value of ‘  ’ in radians

D  tan   cos  1

D    Loss (‘  ’ must be in radian)

Angle
2.4.2 Desauty’s Bridge
C1= Unknown capacitance

At balance condition,

1 1
 R4 
 R3 jwC1
jwC2

R4 R3

C1 C1  R4C2

R3
C2

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Fig 2.17 Desauty’s bridge

Fig 2.18 Phasor diagram of Desauty’s bridge

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2.4.3 Modified desauty’s bridge

Fig 2.19 Modified Desauty’s bridge

Fig 2.20 Phasor diagram of Modified Desauty’s bridge

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R11  (R 1 r 1)

R12  (R 2 r )2

1 1
At balance condition, (R1  )R4  R3 (R21  )
jwC1 jwC2
R4 R3 )
R11R4   R3R21 
jwC1 jwC2

Comparing the real term, R1R

1 4 R R13 2

1
R R1
R4

1 (R  r )
R  r  2 R24
R3
Comparing imaginary term,

R4  R3
wC1 wC2

C1  R4C2
R3
Dissipation factor D=wC1r1
Advantages
 r1 and c1 are independent of frequency.
 They are independent of each other.
 Source need not be pure sine wave.

2.4.4 Schering bridge

E1  I1r1  jI1X 4

C2 = C4= Standard capacitor (Internal resistance=0)

C4= Variable capacitance.

C1= Unknown capacitance.

r1= Unknown series equivalent resistance of the

capacitor.

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R3=R4= Known resistor.

Fig 2.21 Schering bridge

Z1 r 1  1 jwC1r1 1

jwC1 jwC1
1
R4
jwC4  R4
Z4  1 1 4 4
R4  jwC R
jwC4

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Fig 2.22 Phasor diagram of Schering bridge

. . . .
At balance condition, Z 1 Z 4  Z 2 Z 3

1 jwC1r1

R4  R3
jwC1 1 jwC4 R4 jwC2

(1 jwC1r1)R4C2  R3C1(1 jwC4r4 )

R2C2  jwC1r1R4C2  R3C1  jwC4 R4 R3C1

Comparing the real part,

C1  R4C2
R3

Comparing the imaginary part,

wC1r1R4C2  wC4 R3R4C1

1 C R
r  4C23

Dissipation factor of capacitor,

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R4C2 C 4 R3
D  wC1r1 w 
R3 C2

 D  wC4 R4

Advantages

 In this type of bridge, the value of capacitance can be measured accurately.

 It can measure capacitance value over a wide range.
 It can measure dissipation factor accurately.

Disadvantages

 It requires two capacitors.

 Variable standard capacitor is costly.

5. Measurements of frequency

1. Wein’s bridge

Wein’s bridge is popularly used for measurements of frequency of frequency. In this bridge, the
value of all parameters are known. The source whose frequency has to measure is connected as
shown in the figure.

Z1 r 1  1 jwC1r1 1

jwC1 jwC1
Z2 
R2 2 R2
1 jwC
.

jwC1r1  1 4  . R2  3
R
jwC1 R 1 jwC 2 R2
.
At balance condition, Z 1 Z 4  Z 2 Z 3
(1 jwC1r1)(1 jwC2 R2 )R4  R2 R3  jwC1

1 jwC2 R2  jwC 2

1 1r  w 1C 2C1 r 2R  1
R2 R3
R4
jwC

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Fig 2.23 Wein’s bridge

Fig 2.24 Phasor diagram of Wein’s bridge

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Comparing real term,

1 w2C1C2r1R2  0

w2C1C2r1R2  1
1
w2 
C1C2r1R2
1 1
w ,f 
C1C2r1R2 2 C1C2 r1R2

NOTE

The above bridge can be used for measurements of capacitance. In such case, r1 and C1 are
unknown and frequency is known. By equating real terms, we will get R1 and C1. Similarly by
equating imaginary term, we will get another equation in terms of r1 and C1. It is only used for
measurements of Audio frequency.
A.F=20 HZ to 20 KHZ
R.F=>> 20 KHZ
Comparing imaginary
term,
R R
wC2 R2  wC1r1  wC1 2 3
R4

C1R2 R3
C2R 
2 C r11 …………………………………..(2.19)
R4
1
C1
w2 C 2r 1R2
Substituting in eqn. (2.19), we have

C 2R2 r1 R R
 2 3 C1
2
w C 2r 1R2 R4

Multiplying R4 in both sides, we have

R2 R3

C 2R2 R4  1  R4  C1
R2 R3 w2C 2R2 R2 R3

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C1  C2 R4  R4
R3 w C 2R22 3R
2

w2C1r1C2 R2  1

1 1
r1 
w 2 C 2 R2C1 
2  C 2 R4  R4 
w C 2 R2  R
 3 w C R R2
2
2 2 3 
1 

 w2C 2 R R 
 2 2 4  R4

 R3 R 2 R3


1
r1 
R3  2 22 2 1 
R4 w C R  R2 

 
r1  R3 1  
R 1
4 (w 2 C 22 R
2 )
R2 
 
2.5.2 High Voltage Schering Bridge

Fig 2.25 High Voltage Schering bridge

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(1) The high voltage supply is obtained from a transformer usually at 50 HZ.

2.6 Wagner earthing device:

Fig 2.26 Wagner Earthing device

Wagner earthing consists of ‘R’ and ‘C’ in series. The stray capacitance at node ‘B’ and ‘D’ are
CB, CD respectively. These Stray capacitances produced error in the measurements of ‘L’ and ‘C’.
These error will predominant at high frequency. The error due to this capacitance can be
eliminated using wagner earthing arm.

Close the change over switch to the position (1) and obtained balanced. Now change the
switch to position (2) and obtained balance. This process has to repeat until balance is achieved in
both the position. In this condition the potential difference across each capacitor is zero. Current
drawn by this is zero. Therefore they do not have any effect on the measurements.

What are the sources of error in the bridge measurements?

 Error due to stray capacitance and inductance.

 Due to external field.
 Leakage error: poor insulation between various parts of bridge can produced this error.
 Eddy current error.
 Frequency error.

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 Waveform error (due to harmonics)

 Residual error: small inductance and small capacitance of the resistor produce this error.

Precaution

 The load inductance is eliminated by twisting the connecting the connecting lead.

 In the case of capacitive bridge, the connecting lead are kept apart.(QC  A  0  r )
d
 In the case of inductive bridge, the various arm are magnetically screen.
 In the case of capacitive bridge, the various arm are electro statically screen to reduced
the stray capacitance between various arm.
 To avoid the problem of spike, an inter bridge transformer is used in between the source
and bridge.
 The stray capacitance between the ends of detector to the ground, cause difficulty in
balancing as well as error in measurements. To avoid this problem, we use wagner
earthing device.

2.7 Ballastic galvanometer

This is a sophisticated instrument. This works on the principle of PMMC meter. The only
difference is the type of suspension is used for this meter. Lamp and glass scale method is used to
obtain the deflection. A small mirror is attached to the moving system. Phosphorous bronze wire
is used for suspension.

When the D.C. voltage is applied to the terminals of moving coil, current flows through it. When
a current carrying coil kept in the magnetic field, produced by permanent magnet, it experiences
a force. The coil deflects and mirror deflects. The light spot on the glass scale also move. This
deflection is proportional to the current through the coil.

Q
i  t , Q  it   idt

  Q , deflection 
Charge

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Fig 2.27 Ballastic galvanometer

2.8 Measurements of flux and flux density (Method of reversal)

D.C. voltage is applied to the electromagnet through a variable resistance R1 and a reversing
switch. The voltage applied to the toroid can be reversed by changing the switch from position 2
to position ‘1’. Let the switch be in position ‘2’ initially. A constant current flows through the
toroid and a constant flux is established in the core of the magnet.

A search coil of few turns is provided on the toroid. The B.G. is connected to the search
coil through a current limiting resistance. When it is required to measure the flux, the switch is
changed from position ‘2’ to position ‘1’. Hence the flux reduced to zero and it starts increasing
in the reverse direction. The flux goes from +  to -  , in time ‘t’ second. An emf is induced in
the search coil, science the flux changes with time. This emf circulates a current through
R2 and
B.G. The meter deflects. The switch is normally closed. It is opened when it is required to
take the reading.

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2.8.1 Plotting the BH curve

The curve drawn with the current on the X-axis and the flux on the Y-axis, is called magnetization
characteristics. The shape of B-H curve is similar to shape of magnetization characteristics. The
residual magnetism present in the specimen can be removed as follows.

Fig 2.28 BH curve

Fig 2.29 Magnetization characteristics

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Close the switch ‘S2’ to protect the galvanometer, from high current. Change the switch
S1 from position ‘1’ to ‘2’ and vice versa for several times.
To start with the resistance ‘R1’ is kept at maximum resistance position. For a particular
value of current, the deflection of B.G. is noted. This process is repeated for various value of
current. For
each deflection flux can be calculated.( B   )
A

Magnetic field intensity value for various current can be calculated.().The B-H curve can
be plotted by using the value of ‘B’ and ‘H’.

2.8.2 Measurements of iron loss:

Let RP= pressure coil resistance
RS = resistance of coil S1
E= voltage reading= Voltage induced in S2 I=
current in the pressure coil
VP= Voltage applied to wattmeter pressure coil. W=
reading of wattmeter corresponding voltage V
W 1V
= reading of wattmeter corresponding voltage E
W1 E E W
  W 1
W1  E P W V
V
W1=Total loss=Iron loss+ Cupper loss.
The above circuit is similar to no load test of transformer.

In the case of no load test the reading of wattmeter is approximately equal to iron loss. Iron loss
depends on the emf induced in the winding. Science emf is directly proportional to flux. The
voltage applied to the pressure coil is V. The corresponding of wattmeter is ‘W’. The iron loss
WE
corresponding E is E . The reading of the wattmeter includes the losses in the pressure
V
coil and copper loss of the winding S1. These loses have to be subtracted to get the actual iron
loss.

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9. Galvanometers

D-Arsonval Galvanometer

Vibration Galvanometer

Ballistic C

1. D-arsonval
galvanometer (d.c.
galvanometer)

Fig 2.30 D-Arsonval Galvanometer

Galvanometer is a special type of ammeter used for measuring A or mA. This is a

sophisticated instruments. This works on the principle of PMMC meter. The only difference is
the type of suspension used for this meter. It uses a sophisticated suspension called taut
suspension, so that moving system has negligible weight.

Lamp and glass scale method is used to obtain the deflection. A small mirror is attached
to the moving system. Phosphors bronze is used for suspension.

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When D.C. voltage is applied to the terminal of moving coil, current flows through it.
When current carrying coil is kept in the magnetic field produced by P.M. , it experiences a force.
The light spot on the glass scale also move. This deflection is proportional to the current through
the coil. This instrument can be used only with D.C. like PMMC meter.

The deflecting
Torque, TD=BINA
TD=GI, Where
G=BAN TC=KS  =S
At balance, TC=TD
 S =GI
GI
 
S
Where G= Displacements constant of Galvanometer
S=Spring constant

2.9.2 Vibration Galvanometer (A.C.

Galvanometer )

The construction of this galvanometer is similar to the PMMC instrument except for the moving
system. The moving coil is suspended using two ivory bridge pieces. The tension of the system
can be varied by rotating the screw provided at the top suspension. The natural frequency can be
varied by varying the tension wire of the screw or varying the distance between ivory bridge
piece.

When A.C. current is passed through coil an alternating torque or vibration is produced. This
vibration is maximum if the natural frequency of moving system coincide with supply frequency.
Vibration is maximum, science resonance takes place. When the coil is vibrating , the mirror
oscillates and the dot moves back and front. This appears as a line on the glass scale. Vibration
galvanometer is used for null deflection of a dot appears on the scale. If the bridge is unbalanced,
a line appears on the scale

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Fig 2.31 Vibration Galvanometer

Example 2.2-In a low- Voltage Schering bridge designed for the measurement of
permittivity, the branch ‘ab’ consists of two electrodes between which the specimen under
test may be inserted, arm ‘bc’ is a non-reactive resistor R3 in parallel with a standard
capacitor C3, arm CD is a non-reactive resistor R4 in parallel with a standard capacitor C4,
arm ‘da’ is a standard air capacitor of capacitance C2. Without the specimen between the
electrode, balance is obtained with following values , C3=C4=120 pF, C2=150 pF,
R3=R4=5000Ω.With the specimen inserted, these values become C3=200 pF,C4=1000
pF,C2=900 pF and R3=R4=5000Ω. In such test w=5000 rad/sec. Find the relative
permittivity of the specimen?

capacitance measured with given medium

Sol: Relative permittivity(  r ) =
capacitance measured with air medium

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Fig 2.32 Schering bridge

R4
C1 C (2 )
R3
Let capacitance value C0, when without specimen dielectric. Let
the capacitance value CS when with the specimen dielectric.

R 5000
C0 C (2 4 )  150   150 pF
R3
5000
R 5000
C S  C2 ( 4 )  900   900 pF
R3
5000
CS 900
 r  6
C0 150

Example 2.3- A specimen of iron stamping weighting 10 kg and having a area of 16.8 cm2 is
tested by an episten square. Each of the two winding S1 and S2 have 515 turns. A.C. voltage
of 50 HZ frequency is given to the primary. The current in the primary is 0.35 A. A
voltmeter connected to S2 indicates 250 V. Resistance of S1 and S2 each equal to 40 Ω.
Resistance of pressure coil is 80 kΩ. Calculate maximum flux density in the specimen and
iron loss/kg if the wattmeter indicates 80 watt?

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Soln- E  4.44 fm N

E
2
Bm  4.44 fAN  1.3wb / m

RS )  E2
Iron loss= W (1
RP (RS  RP )

= 80(1 40 )  2502  79.26watt

 80 103

(40  80 103 )

Iron loss/ kg=79.26/10=7.926 w/kg.

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