How does a clamp-on ammeter measure current flow?

A clamp-on ammeter measures current flow through the basic transformer principle. This device features a jaw that can be clamped around a conductor without needing to disconnect or interrupt the circuit. Inside the clamp, there is a current transformer that senses the magnetic field generated by the surrounding electric current. According to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction, the changing current flowing through the conductor creates a magnetic field that induces a proportional current in the ammeter's transformer.

This method allows for safe and non-intrusive measurements of current in an electrical circuit, providing a clear reading of the current without needing to open the circuit. The clamp-on design simplifies the process of measuring current flow, especially in industrial settings where circuits might be complicated or hazardous to access directly.