An ammeter shunt is a very low-resistance connection between two points in an electric circuit that forms an alternative path for a portion of the current. Shunt voltage drop is used in conjunction with an ammeter to measure amperage of a circuit. Commercially manufactured shunts are typically available in either 50 or 100 millivolts.

Continuous operating current should not exceed 2/3 ammeter shunt rating.  To ensure proper operation the shunt temperature is in no way to exceed 145°C, as a permanent change in resistance will occur.

For example, if continuous current for an application is 500 amps, the ammeter shunt rating  should be no less than 750 amps.  This applies to both 50 and 100 millivolt current drop. To estimate minimum standard shunt rating required, divide continuous application amperage by .6666.

Deltec DC ammeter shunts are listed by Series Type, Amperage and Voltage Drop.  For example, an MKA-100-100 is a lightweight shunt, which will drop 100 millivolts at 100 amps with Deltec standard  accuracy of plus or minus 1/4%.  66 continuous operation amps is acceptable for this shunt.

To estimate resistance of a Deltec Ammeter shunt one needs to apply ohms law.  For example an MKA-100-50 has an approximate  resistance of 0.0005 Ohms.  This is determined by V/I=R.  (.05 V)/(100 A) = (R).

CLICK HERE FOR AN OHMS LAW CALCULATOR

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