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 Vibro-Acoustic Method for OLTC testing
Edis Osmanbasic, Transformer Lead Test Engineer

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Introduction

• On-load tap changers – the only moving part in a typical

power transformer
• They represent a significant number of total transformer
faults
• The possibility pof „On-line“ testing
• When the failure is present aditional tests are desirable to
make good decision

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Vibro-Acoustic Measurement

• Analysis of vibrations measured on the external OLTC

tank using accelerometers
• The result is a graph
• The signal waveform is analyzed for characteristic
points
• The shape depends on the method of OLTC operation

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Vibro-Acoustic Measurement

• Vibro-acoustic method provides additional confirmation

of problems in “gray area”
• Detects problems with contacts which do not affect the
electric circuit
• Timing of operation stages can be measured

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Vibro-Acoustic Measurement

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Vibro-acustic sensor
connection

• Sensors should be connected on

the transformer tank where OLTC
is placed
• Screws, wax or magnet is used
for sensor connection
• Always connect to the same spot
and in same way to get
comparable results

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Results analysis

• The graph itself does not give a plenty useful information

• The amplitude is influenced of sensor location
• Comparison with a reference or with sister units
• OLTC construction type, OLTC operation sequences

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„Online“ test
• The vibration recording is
possible when transformer
is on-line
• Safety is on the first place!!!
• OLTC motor current
roecording has aditional
benefits

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Reversing switch – nominal position Regular tap position

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 „Offline“ test
• Complementary method with OLTC motor current
measurement, DVtest / DRM testing, winding resistance
measurement, DGA
• Each test gives additional information about OLTC
condition

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 Complementary analysis of DVtest and
vibroacoustic method for OLTC

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 Conclusion
• Additonal testing tool
• Mechanicla failure detection
• On-line testing
• Disadvantage: complicated analyisis, external factors
influence result

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