IEEE

Std 142-2007 CHAPTER 1

Figure 1-34—Ungrounded wye step-down autotransformer

with primary fault

In all the preceding examples there is a safety hazard due to normal perceptions of the
relation of maximum voltage to the normal voltage on a circuit. For this reason, the NEC
has imposed restrictions as to how autotransformers can be used.

Figure 1-37 shows the correct configuration for using an autotransformer. There must be
an effective connection between the neutral of the autotransformer and the neutral of the
source transformer for flow of zero-sequence current. In an industrial installation where
the NEC would apply, the connection must be made by extending the neutral of the source
transformer. No ground connection must be made at the autotransformer to comply with
the NEC. A circuit supplied by an autotransformer does not meet the criteria of a
separately derived system.

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