Insulating support flange for current loop system

Abstract

The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for isolating a current loop conductor of a current loop system of a pre-charge circuit from a plurality of current transformers disposed around the current loop conductor. In particular, the embodiments described herein include an insulating support flange having a first tubular section, a second tubular section radially disposed around the first tubular section and connected to the first tubular section via a solid annular section extending radially outward from the first tubular section to a first end of the second tubular section, an annular base extending radially outward from a second end of the second tubular section, and a plurality of prongs extending axially from or near to an outer circumference of the annular base, wherein each of the prongs comprises an end face that is angled toward the second tubular section. The insulating support flanges are configured to mate with each other along an axial direction of the current loop conductor. In addition, each of the plurality of current transformers is installed (i.e., held in place) between the prongs, annular base, and second annular section of its respective insulating support flange. As such, a fixed open air space between the first and second annular sections of the insulating support flanges isolates the current transformers from the current loop conductor, thereby reducing the possibility of discharge between the current transformers and the current loop conductor.