electronics

Article
Experimental Research on Power Transformer
Vibration Distribution under Different Winding
Defect Conditions
Yiwei Hu, Jing Zheng * and Hai Huang
Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
* Correspondence: 10915008@zju.edu.cn




Received: 25 June 2019; Accepted: 26 July 2019; Published: 28 July 2019


Abstract: Vibration analysis is one of the important tools for the transformer winding faults diagnosis.
Previous researchers have proved that the vibration spatial distribution of the winding is significantly
influenced by the winding defects for the open circuit condition. In order to study the effects of
the loading current on the winding vibrations under different mechanical conditions, experiments
were designed and operated on a three-phase transformer winding to analyze the winding vibration
distribution under different winding defect cases. Further, to study to what extent the mechanical
defects and the loading current influence characteristics of the vibration distribution on the tank, the
tank vibration distribution under various winding defects and different loading currents were also
measured and discussed. In addition, the possibility of detection of transformer winding faults based
on tank vibration spatial distribution characteristics was also discussed.

Keywords: power transformer; winding defects; vibration distribution; fault diagnosis

1. Introduction
As crucial equipments of power transmission systems, failures of power transformers will lead to
severe accidents and considerable economic losses [1,2]. Winding is one of the most important and
vulnerable internal components of power transformers, and encounters with various kinds of faults
and defects, such as deformation, shift and clamping force looseness. The faults and defects will lead
to the sudden breakdown of power transformers [3,4]. Effective online monitoring and reliable fault
detection for power transformer windings have raised attention in recent years.
The vibration analysis method is an effective tool for detecting internal faults in transformers,
via analysis of changes in the vibration response of the transformer tank. Changes in the mechanical
properties of the windings and core will ultimately affect the tank vibration response [5].
The key point of detecting potential transformer faults is to extract features in the signal that are
related with the fault characteristics. Various signal processing techniques are applied for feature
extraction. The most common method is to analyze the frequency spectrum of the vibration signal.
Berler applied the Fourier Transform to the transformer vibration signals, calculated the energy of
the most important harmonics, and figured out that the worse the state of fixations, the higher the
energy of the harmonics will be [6]. Bartoletti noted that aged and abnormal transformers both
show an increase of high-order harmonics in the vibration compared with the new transformers,
and proposed parameters based on the signal distortion rate to evaluate the transformer state [7].
Their work had been improved by Hong et al., who found that the number of frequency components
contained in the transformer vibration signal will increase due to the defects, resulting in a decrease
in its regularity. A measure based on the information entropy was thus introduced to represent the
signal irregularity [8]. Moreover, occurrence of the mechanical defect will also lead to the increase

Electronics 2019, 8, 842; doi:10.3390/electronics8080842 www.mdpi.com/journal/electronics

Electronics 2019, 8, 842 2 of 19

or decrease of energy of different frequency bands. As a result, time frequency analysis methods
are applied to detect the transformer defects. Ji et al. introduced the wavelet package transform to
calculate energy features of different frequency bands, and compare the energy features of normal
transformer vibration signals with that of defective ones for fault detection [9]. Chen et al. employed
the adaptive Hilbert-Huang transform (HHT) technique to obtain instantaneous frequencies and the
time-frequency-energy distribution, identified the IMFs representing the changes of core clamping
pressure according to the core vibration behavior, and constructed a feature vector to quantify the
clamping pressure. [10]. In some other researches, features in the signal time sequence that contains
information of non-stationary and nonlinear draw attention of scholars. A healthy transformer can
be regarded as a deterministic system, and always produces the periodic vibration signal. When the
transformer structures become anomalous, the system may become unpredictable. Hong introduced
the recurrence plot (RP) as a tool to analyze the stationary of the transformer vibration, and proposed a
measure of system determinism to demonstrate the degree of the stationary [11]. Lai et al. introduced
the statistics of skewness and kurtosis to characterize the impulse features that related to the failure of
core and winding [12].
However, most feature extraction algorithms are based on the analysis of the vibration detected
from the independent measurement point. According to some previous researches, the vibration
at specific measuring locations on the transformer tank shows different sensitivities. Few of the
feature extraction algorithms have comprehensively considered the relationship between vibrations
from measuring points of different spatial location. Garcia suggested that adequate points on the
transformer tank were required for better vibration behavior representation [13,14]. Ji emphasized that
in the condition assessment process of the transformer windings and core, vibration signals measured
from different positions on the tank showed different characteristics. It is unreliable to jump to the
diagnosis conclusion only based on an individual measurement point [15]. Ming studied the vibration
transmission properties, and measured the vibration transmission functions at different locations on
the transformer tank, and found that vibration transmission functions vary with different locations [16].
The above mentioned works have investigated the vibration characteristics of different measuring
points on the transformer tank, and emphasized the necessity of the multiple-point measurement and
study of spatial information from vibration signals at different locations. So it is necessary to further
study the spatial distribution characteristics of transformer vibrations, and the relationships between
vibration spatial properties and mechanical health conditions.
Our previous work studied the vibration spatial distribution characteristics of a single-phase
experimental transformer winding under normal and abnormal operating conditions [17]. However,
these results were collected from the winding surface and only for the open circuit condition, and it is
worthwhile to discuss the effects of the loading current on the vibrations both from the winding and
the tank under different mechanical health conditions.
In this paper the vibration spatial distribution characteristics both on the windings and tank under
different loading currents were further studied, respectively. In order to investigate the vibration
performance under abnormal operating conditions, both the winding vibration and tank vibration
were measured as various artificial faults were introduced into the winding. The results were then
analyzed by comparing the vibration patterns with and without faults under different loading currents.
In addition, the possibility of detection of the transformer winding faults based on the tank vibration
spatial distribution was also discussed.

2. Vibration Transmission Paths

For a transformer that is working under normal operation conditions, the current in the winding
and its distributed leakage flux will excite an electric distribution force F̂w , and bring out the winding
vibration. Additionally, the distribution function of the leakage flux will change in correspondence
with any winding structural changes as well as the vibration response function of the winding. As a
Electronics 2019, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 3 of 19

Electronics 2019, 8, 842 3 of 19

In addition, vibrations from the main parts of a transformer are transmitted to the tank
through different paths, shown as Figure 1. Considering the vibration coupling paths from the main
parts to
result, the
the tank, the vibration
distributed vibration at
onthe winding xstrongly
thelocation T from the winding
depends on the canmechanical
be expressed as in Equation
properties of the
winding
(1): [18].
In addition, vibrations from the main parts Nw
of a transformer are transmitted to the tank through
xT | t ) =  hwkthe
different paths, shown as Figure v1.W (Considering ( xw | t ) paths from the main parts(1)to
, xw | t ) ∗ FWcoupling
( xT vibration
the tank, the vibration at the location xT fromk =1the winding can be expressed as in Equation (1):
In the equation above, FW ( xw | t ) is theX
Nwelectric distribution force at position xw of the winding,
vW (xT |tfunction
hwk ( xT , xw | t ) is the impulse response )= of(xthe
hwk w |t) ∗ FW ((from
T , xwinding xw |t) the winding force to the tank
(1)
k =1
vibration via the index k path). N w is the number of the transmission paths of winding vibrations [19].

Figure 1. Transformer
Figure 1. Transformer vibration
vibration transmission
transmissionpaths.
paths.

In the be
It can equation above,
seen that FW (xw |t) ischanges
the structural the electric distribution
of windings at positionofxwthe
force variations
will cause of inner
the winding,
transfer
hwk (xT , xw t) is the impulse response function of the winding (from the winding force to the tank

characteristics hwk . Moreover, the vibration transmission property hwk for each observation is
vibration via the index k path). Nw is the number of the transmission paths of winding vibrations [19].
different from each other. Therefore, the structural changes of windings will lead to a spatial
It can be seen that the structural changes of windings will cause variations of the inner transfer
difference among vibrations at different measurement points.
characteristics hwk . Moreover, the vibration transmission property hwk for each observation is different
As a result, it is necessary to investigate the spatial performance of winding vibrations and
from each other. Therefore, the structural changes of windings will lead to a spatial difference among
tank vibrations under abnormal operating conditions.
vibrations at different measurement points.
As a result, it is necessary to investigate the spatial performance of winding vibrations and tank
3. Experimental Measurement of Transformer Winding Vibration Spatial Distribution
vibrations under abnormal operating conditions.
Previous research has shown that winding defects have a significant influence on the winding
3. Experimental
vibration Measurement
distribution under theofopen-circuit
Transformercondition
Winding[17]. Vibration
However,Spatial Distribution
effects of the loading current
on the winding
Previous vibration
research hasdistribution
shown that were hardly
winding considered.
defects In such case,
have a significant the performance
influence on the windingof the
vibration distribution of normal/abnormal windings under different loading
vibration distribution under the open-circuit condition [17]. However, effects of the loading current currents should be
investigated.
on the winding vibration distribution were hardly considered. In such case, the performance of
A set of experiments
the vibration distribution were carried on a winding
of normal/abnormal windings of anunder
110 kV three phase
different transformer
loading of type
currents should
SZ9-50000/110
be investigated. (manufactured by HuaPeng Cooperation, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China), in which S
represents
A set ofthe three-phasewere
experiments transformer,
carried onZa represents
winding ofthe on-load
an 110 voltage
kV three phaseregulation,
transformer nineofistype
the
design index, 50,000 means the rated capacity is 50,000 kV·A, and 110
SZ9-50000/110 (manufactured by HuaPeng Cooperation, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China), in which S represents the voltage of the
high voltage
represents theside is 110 kV.
three-phase A single phase
transformer, winding
Z represents theconsists
on-loadof a low regulation,
voltage voltage winding
nine is and a high
the design
voltage
index, winding,
50,000 meansforthe low
ratedvoltage
capacitywinding, the internal
is 50,000 kV·A, and 110 diameter
representsisthe656 mm,ofand
voltage the external
the high voltage
diameter is 822 mm, for high voltage winding, the internal diameter
side is 110 kV. A single phase winding consists of a low voltage winding and a high voltage is 898 mm and thewinding,
external
diameter
for is 1119winding,
low voltage mm. Piezoelectric
the internalaccelerometers
diameter is 656 of mm,
modeland601A12 manufactured
the external diameterbyis the 822 PCB
mm,
®

corporation
for (Depew,
high voltage NY, USA)
winding, were used
the internal in theis experiments
diameter 898 mm andtothe collect
externalthe diameter
vibration is distribution
1119 mm.
information, and arranged in a row radial direction of the winding,
Piezoelectric accelerometers of model 601A12 manufactured by the PCB corporation (Depew,and ® fixed at certain measuring
NY,
USA) were used in the experiments to collect the vibration distribution information, and arranged inthe
points as demonstrated in Figure 2. The sensitivity of the acceleration sensor was 500 mV/g, and a
sampling
row radial frequency
direction ofadopted in the and
the winding, experiments was 10measuring
fixed at certain kHz. points as demonstrated in Figure 2.
Electronics 2019, 8, 842 4 of 19

The sensitivity of the acceleration sensor was 500 mV/g, and the sampling frequency adopted in the
experiments
Electronics 2019, was 10 kHz.
8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 4 of 19
Electronics 2019, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 4 of 19

Accelerometer
Accelerometer
Location
Location
#1
#1
#2
#2
#3
#3
#4
#4
Winding Coil #5
Winding Coil #5

(a) (b)
(a) (b)
Figure 2. (a)
(a) Accelerometers
Accelerometers installation on the target winding; (b) location of the accelerometers.
Figure 2. (a) Accelerometers installation on the target winding; (b) location of the accelerometers.
In order to obtain
obtain the
the winding
winding vibration,
vibration, the low-voltage
low-voltage winding was short-circuited, and a
In orderwas
low voltage to obtain
appliedthe onwinding vibration,
the high-voltage the low-voltage
winding. winding was short-circuited, and a
To study the relationship of winding defects
low
and voltage was applied
the winding vibration on distribution
the high-voltage
with winding. To study
the influence the relationship winding
of loading of winding defects
loading currents,
currents, winding looseness
and the winding
conditions were vibration distribution with the influence of loading currents, winding looseness
were artificially
artificiallyintroduced
introducedon onthe
thetarget
targetwinding.
winding. Additionally,
Additionally, thethe
applied current
applied in the
current in
conditions were
normal/abnormal artificially
conditions introduced
was changedon the
from target
20% winding.
of the rated Additionally,
loading the
current
the normal/abnormal conditions was changed from 20% of the rated loading current to 100% of the toapplied
100% ofcurrent
the in
rated
the normal/abnormal
loading current, conditions
an increase by 10%was changed from 20%current
of the rated loading current to 100% of the
rated loading current, an increase byof10%
the of
rated
the loading each time.
rated loading current each time.
rated loading current, an increase by 10% of the rated loading current each time.
3.1. Case 1:
3.1. Case 1: Winding
Winding Vibration
Vibration under
under Normal
Normal Conditions
Conditions
3.1. Case 1: Winding Vibration under Normal Conditions
Firstly,
Firstly,the
thewinding
winding vibration under
vibration normal
under conditions
normal was collected.
conditions Figure 3Figure
was collected. shows 3theshows
vibration
the
Firstly,
signature and the
itswinding
frequency vibration
spectrum under normal
collected at conditions
measuring was
point collected.
#5. It can Figure
be found 3 shows
that, the
under
vibration signature and its frequency spectrum collected at measuring point #5. It can be found that,
vibration
normal signaturethe
conditions, andvibration
its frequency
signalspectrum
mainly collected
consists at
100measuring point #5. It can becomponents,
found that,
under normal conditions, the vibration signal mainlyofconsistsHz fundamental harmonic
of 100 Hz fundamental harmonic
under
since normal conditions, themainly
vibration signalon mainly consists of 100 Hz fundamental harmonic
components, since the winding vibration mainly depends on the square of the current of 50 the
the winding vibration depends the square of the current of 50 Hz through Hz
components,
winding [20]. since the
through the winding [20]. winding vibration mainly depends on the square of the current of 50 Hz
through the winding [20].

.
.
Figure
Figure 3.
3. Vibration
Vibration of winding under normal conditions with rated current at measuring point
point #2.
#2.
Figure 3. Vibration of winding under normal conditions with rated current at measuring point #2.
Assume that thatmm××n nsensors areare
sensors arranged
arrangedon aonsurface (m is(m
a surface theisnumber of the of
the number rows
theofrows
the sensors
of the
Assume
sensors
and n isand that m × n
n is the number
the number sensors are
of columns
of columns arranged on a surface
of the sensors),
of the sensors), (m
a spatialamatrix is
spatialof the
matrix number of the
of the winding
the winding vibrationrows of the
vibration at
at certain
sensors andf isn described
is the number
by: of by:
columns of the sensors), a spatial matrix of the winding vibration at
certain frequency
frequency f is described
certain frequency f is described by:
 v1,1 ( f )  v1, n ( f ) 
Vm× n ( f ) =  1,1 ( )
 v f  v1, n ( f ) 
   (2)
Vm× n ( f ) =      (2)
vm ,1 ( f )  vm , n ( f ) 
vm ,1 ( f )  vm , n ( f ) 

which describes the winding vibration distribution pattern at frequency f.
which describes the winding vibration distribution pattern at frequency f.
Considering that 100 Hz is regarded as the main harmonic of the winding vibration, the
Considering that 100 Hz is regarded as the main harmonic of the winding vibration, the
amplitude of the vibration at 100 Hz of all measuring points is presented as in Figure 4. It is obvious
amplitude of the vibration at 100 Hz of all measuring points is presented as in Figure 4. It is obvious
that the vibration distribution under different loading currents follows almost the same pattern,
Electronics 2019, 8, 842 5 of 19

 
 v1,1 ( f ) ... v1,n ( f ) 
.. ..
 
Vm×n ( f ) = 
 .. 
(2)
 . . . 

vm,1 ( f ) ... vm,n ( f )
 

which describes the winding vibration distribution pattern at frequency f.

Considering
Electronics thatPEER
2019, 8, x FOR 100 REVIEW
Hz is regarded as the main harmonic of the winding vibration, the amplitude 5 of 19
of the vibration at 100 Hz of all measuring points is presented as in Figure 4. It is obvious that the
Electronics 2019, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 5 of 19
since the amplitude
vibration distribution of under
the 100different
Hz vibration at all
loading points follows
currents are nearly proportional
almost the sametopattern,
the square of the
since
current
amplitude
since the foramplitude
a healthy
of the 100of winding.
Hz 100 Figure
vibration
the 5 shows
at all at the
points
Hz vibration winding
arepoints
all nearlyarevibration
proportionaltrends with
to the
nearly proportional increasing
square
to the loading
theofsquare
current
of the
currents
for a under
healthy normal
winding. conditions
Figure 5 of
shows the
the 100 Hz
winding vibration
vibrationamplitude
trends at
with different
increasing
current for a healthy winding. Figure 5 shows the winding vibration trends with increasing loading measuring
loading points
currents
when
under
currentsthe winding
normal
under was operated
conditions
normal conditionsunder
of the 100 Hzthe
of normal
100 Hzconditions.
vibration amplitude The amplitudes
at different
vibration amplitude linearly
atmeasuring
different increased
points
measuringwhen with
the
points
the square
winding wasof the current.
operated under normal conditions. The amplitudes linearly increased
when the winding was operated under normal conditions. The amplitudes linearly increased with with the square of
the current.
the square of the current.

Figure 4. Vibration distribution pattern Vm×n (100 ) under normal conditions with different winding
patternVVm× n (100 ) under normal conditions with different winding
Figure Vibration
Figure4.4.(m
currents distribution
distributionpattern
= 5, n = 1).
Vibration m×n (100) under normal conditions with different winding
currents (m = 5, n = 1).
currents (m = 5, n = 1).

Figure 5.
Figure Winding vibration
5. Winding vibration trends
trends with
with increasing
increasing loading
loading currents
currents under
under normal
normal conditions.
conditions.
3.2. Winding Vibration
Figure under
5. Winding Looseness
vibration Conditions
trends with increasing loading currents under normal conditions.
3.2. Winding Vibration under Looseness Conditions
Winding looseness is a typical category of winding defects, two kinds of common winding
3.2. Winding
Winding Vibration
looseness under
is aLooseness
typicalon Conditions
category of winding defects, two kinds of common winding
looseness conditions are introduced a winding of the experiment transformer.
looseness conditions are introduced on a winding of the experiment transformer.
Winding looseness is a typical category of winding defects, two kinds of common winding
3.2.1. Case conditions
looseness 2: Clamping areForce Looseness
introduced on a winding of the experiment transformer.
3.2.1. Case 2: Clamping Force Looseness
In this case, the clamping force of the winding was loosed to 60% of the fully tightened rated
3.2.1.
InCase
value (240 2:
thiskN) Clamping
case,bythe Force
clamping
applying anLooseness
force of thedevice
actuating winding was loosed
of winding to 60%forces,
clamping of the as
fully tightened
shown rated
in Figure 6.
valueIn (240 kN) by applying an actuating device of winding clamping forces, as
this case, the clamping force of the winding was loosed to 60% of the fully tightened ratedshown in Figure 6.
The
valuewinding
(240 kN) clamping force an
by applying refers to the device
actuating force applied at the
of winding top of the
clamping winding
forces, by theinclamping
as shown Figure 6.
structures,
The winding clamping force refers to the force applied at the top of the winding by forces
which ensure that windings are clamped to resist the large electromagnetic during
the clamping
astructures,
short circuit.
which In ensure
addition,thatthe clamping
windings are force may
clamped to directly
resist theaffect
large the stiffness of the
electromagnetic winding,
forces during
which determines whether the winding can avoid the resonance phenomenon.
a short circuit. In addition, the clamping force may directly affect the stiffness of the winding, Considering that the
Electronics 2019, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 6 of 19

Figure 7 shows the vibration of the winding under the loosened conditions at measuring point
#2. Higher order harmonics can be found in the vibration spectrum, due to the nonlinearity
Electronics 2019, 8, 842 6 of 19
introduced by the mechanical defects. In Figure 8, patterns of the 100 Hz vibration amplitude
distribution under clamping force looseness and different winding currents are presented. It
suggests
The windingthat the global force
clamping vibration distribution
refers patterns
to the force appliedare
at not
thechanged significantly
top of the winding by compared with
the clamping
those in thewhich
structures, normal case.that
ensure However,
windingstheare
vibration
clampedamplitude,
to resist theatlarge
the middle and bottom
electromagnetic parts
forces of thea
during
winding, varies dramatically with the increasing winding currents. Additionally Figure
short circuit. In addition, the clamping force may directly affect the stiffness of the winding, which 9 shows the
trend of the 100 Hz vibration amplitude at different measuring points. With
determines whether the winding can avoid the resonance phenomenon. Considering that the looseness the existence of
looseness
of the winding defects, the nonlinearity of the winding vibration trend at the bottom becomes more
Electronics 2019, 8, clamping
x FOR PEERstructure
REVIEW is a serious problem for a transformer working normally, this paper 6 of 19
obvious, although amplitudes at some
attempts to study the vibrations distribution measuring points still
characteristics linearly
under increase
loosened with the increment of
conditions.
the squared
Figure 7current.
shows the vibration of the winding under the loosened conditions at measuring point
#2. Higher order harmonics can be found in the vibration spectrum, due to the nonlinearity
introduced by the mechanical defects. In Figure 8, patterns of the 100 Hz vibration amplitude
distribution under clamping force looseness and different winding currents are presented. It
suggests that the global vibration distribution patterns are not changed significantly compared with
those in the normal case. However, the vibration amplitude, at the middle and bottom parts of the
winding, varies dramatically with the increasing winding currents. Additionally Figure 9 shows the
trend of the 100 Hz vibration amplitude at different measuring points. With the existence of
looseness defects, the nonlinearity of the winding vibration trend at the bottom becomes more
obvious, although amplitudes at some measuring points still linearly increase with the increment of
the squared current.
Figure 6.
Figure Actuating device
6. Actuating device of
of winding
winding clamping
clamping force.
force.

Figure 7 shows the vibration of the winding under the loosened conditions at measuring point #2.
Higher order harmonics can be found in the vibration spectrum, due to the nonlinearity introduced by
the mechanical defects. In Figure 8, patterns of the 100 Hz vibration amplitude distribution under
clamping force looseness and different winding currents are presented. It suggests that the global
vibration distribution patterns are not changed significantly compared with those in the normal case.
However, the vibration amplitude, at the middle and bottom parts of the winding, varies dramatically
with the increasing winding currents. Additionally Figure 9 shows the trend of the 100 Hz vibration
amplitude at different measuring points. With the existence of looseness defects, the nonlinearity of the
winding vibration trend at the bottom becomes more obvious, although amplitudes at some measuring
Figure
points still linearly increase with 6.the
Actuating device
increment of winding
of the squaredclamping
current.force.

Figure 7. Vibration of winding under clamping loosened conditions with the rated current at
measuring point #2.

Figure 7. Vibration of winding under clamping loosened conditions with the rated current at measuring
Figure 7. Vibration of winding under clamping loosened conditions with the rated current at
point #2.
measuring point #2.

Figure 8. Vibration distribution pattern Vm× n (100 ) under clamping force looseness conditions with
different winding currents (m = 5, n = 1).
 Figure 7. Vibration of winding under clamping loosened conditions with the rated current at
Electronics 2019, 8, 842 7 of 19
measuring point #2.

m× n ((100)
Vm×n 100 ) under
Electronics 2019, 8,Vibration
x FOR PEER REVIEW pattern V
distribution
distribution under clamping
clamping force
force looseness
looseness conditions 7 of 19
conditions with
Figure
Electronics 8. 8,
2019, x FOR PEER REVIEW pattern 7 of 19
different
different winding
winding currents (m =
currents (m n=
5, n
= 5, 1).
= 1).

9. Winding
Figure 9. Winding vibration
vibration trends
trends with
with the
the increasing
increasing loading currents under clamping force
Figure 9. Winding vibration trends with the increasing loading currents under clamping force
looseness conditions.
looseness conditions.
3.2.2. Case 3:
3.2.2. Case
Case 3: Global
Global Looseness
Looseness
3.2.2. 3: Global Looseness
Global looseness
Global looseness
looseness is is aa severer
is severer mode
mode ofof the
the winding
winding looseness
looseness defect,
defect, and
and will
will diminish
diminish the
the
Global
winding’s capacity to a
withstandseverer mode
abrupt of
short the winding
circuits. In the looseness
third case, defect,
global and will
looseness diminish
was the
simulated
winding’s capacity
winding’s capacity toto withstand
withstand abrupt
abrupt short
short circuits.
circuits. InIn the
the third
third case,
case, global
global looseness
looseness was
was
by replacing
simulated by the insulating
replacing the spacers with
insulating a thinner
spacers spacer
with a (2 mm,
thinner 70%(2
spacer ofmm,
the origin
70% ofvalue),
the a total
origin of 87
value),
simulated
levels and by replacingofthe
16 levels
columns insulating
insulating spacers
spacers with
exist aa winding,
thinner spacer
inspacers the (2 mm, 70%
insulating of the
spacers origin
from value),
level 18 to
a total
alevel of 87
total72ofin87 levels and
and 16
16 columns
columns of
of insulating
insulating spacers exist
exist in
in a
a winding,
winding, the
the insulating
insulating spacers
spacers
from level two
from level 18 tocolumns
18 to level 72 are
level 72 in
replaced
in two
two withare
columns
columns
thinner ones,
replaced
are replaced
andthinner
with
with
the supporting andbars
ones, and
thinner ones, theof
the
the two columns
supporting
supporting bars of
bars of
are
the also
two removed,
columns as
are shown
also in Figure
removed, as10.
shown in Figure 10.
the two columns are also removed, as shown in Figure 10.

Figure 10. Faulty winding with global looseness conditions.

Figure 10. Faulty winding with global looseness conditions.
Figure 10. Faulty winding with global looseness conditions.

Additionally, it
Additionally, it is
is noted
noted that
that the
the total
total height
height of
of the
the winding
winding remained
remained unchanged
unchanged during
during the
the
global looseness
global looseness simulation.
simulation. The
The vibration
vibration atat measuring
measuring point
point #2
#2 under
under global
global looseness
looseness conditions
conditions
is plotted in Figure 11. The significant distortion and harmonics can be observed from the vibration
is plotted in Figure 11. The significant distortion and harmonics can be observed from the vibration
Electronics 2019, 8, 842 8 of 19

Additionally, it is noted that the total height of the winding remained unchanged during the
global looseness simulation. The vibration at measuring point #2 under global looseness conditions
is plotted in Figure 11. The significant distortion and harmonics can be observed from the vibration
Electronics
waveform 2019,
and 8, xspectrum.
FOR PEER REVIEW 8 of 19
It indicates that replacement of the insulation spacer has a significant impact
on the mechanical properties of the winding structure, which brings about strong nonlinearity of
Figure
winding13vibrations.
shows the trend of the 100 Hz vibration amplitudes at different points. A non-linear
increase with the squared current can be found at each measuring point.

Electronics 2019, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 8 of 19

Figure 13 shows the trend of the 100 Hz vibration amplitudes at different points. A non-linear
increase with the squared current can be found at each measuring point.

Figure 11. Vibration of winding under global looseness conditions with the rated current at measuring
Figure 11. Vibration of winding under global looseness conditions with the rated current at
point #2.
measuring point #2.
Figure 12 demonstrates that the vibration distribution patterns under the global looseness
conditions become quite different with those in normal conditions. What is most remarkable is that the
vibration pattern varies dramatically with the increasing winding currents. For example, the vibration
amplitude at point #5 shows an equal or smaller amplitude than that at point #3 with the loading
current (less than 50% of the rated value), while the vibration amplitude at point #5 becomes extremely
large, almost 1.5 times of that of point #3 for the higher loading current. Additionally, Figure 13 shows
Figure
the trend 11. 100
of the Vibration of winding
Hz vibration under at
amplitudes global looseness
different points.conditions withincrease
A non-linear the rated current
with at
the squared
measuring
current point #2.
can be found at each measuring point.

Figure 12. Vibration distribution pattern Vm×n (100 ) under global looseness conditions with different
winding currents (m = 5, n = 1).

m× n (100 ) under global looseness conditions with different

12. Vibration distribution pattern VVm×n
Figure
Figure 12. (100) under global looseness conditions with different
winding currents (m = 5, n = 1).
winding currents (m = 5, n = 1).

Figure 13. Winding vibration trends with the increasing loading currents under global looseness
 Figure 12. Vibration distribution pattern Vm×n (100 ) under global looseness conditions with different
Electronics 2019, 8,
winding 842
currents (m = 5, n = 1). 9 of 19

Figure 13. Winding vibration trends with the increasing loading currents under global
Figure 13. Winding vibration trends with the increasing loading currents under global looseness
looseness conditions.
conditions.

Obviously, the behavior of the winding vibration distribution patterns under different loading
currents depended heavily on the overall health of the winding structure. When the transformer
operated in a healthy condition, the vibration distribution on the winding at 100 Hz followed a certain
pattern. In addition, the vibration amplitudes at most positions linearly increased with the squared
current. Once a fault was introduced into the winding, such as looseness in the clamping structures or
replacement of the insulation spacers, the vibration distribution patterns alters with the increasing
winding currents, due to the nonlinearity of the winding vibration trends at some parts of the winding.

4. Spatial Distribution of Transformer Tank Vibration Excited by Winding

In the previous section, experiment results prove that the loading current has a significant impact
on the defected winding’s vibration distribution.
However, the vibrations generated by the main parts (winding and core) propagate to the
measurement locations on the transformer tank via different paths. According to previous research,
the cooling oil introduces an important vibration transmission path to the tank, and also provides
damping and mass loading to the vibration in the tank [16]. These two effects work on the vibration
transmission in two opposing ways. As a result, the overall effect of the oil on the tank vibration is
quite complicated. In such case, it is necessary to figure out whether and to what extent the changes of
mechanical properties and the loading current affect the vibration distribution on the tank.

4.1. Experimental Design

The experiments were carried on a 110 kV three phase transformer of type SZ9-50000/110, a total
of 15 accelerometers were evenly arranged on the high voltage surface of the power transformer tank,
defined as a measurement 5-by-3 matrix, as shown in Figure 14a. Additionally, it is noted that the
three columns in this measurement matrix are right in front of the three phase windings, respectively.
Detailed accelerometer locations information is presented in Figure 14b. A coordinate system based
on the location of the accelerometers was established. The surface of the transformer tank is defined
as a normalized square, ranging from −1 to 1 in both vertical and horizontal directions as shown in
Figure 15. The coordinates of each measuring points are determined by the specific location on one
tank side surface. Taking measuring point #1 as an example, its coordinate is (−0.56, 0.52).
windings, respectively. Detailed accelerometer locations information is presented in Figure 14b. A
coordinate system based on the location of the accelerometers was established. The surface of the
transformer tank is defined as a normalized square, ranging from −1 to 1 in both vertical and
horizontal directions as shown in Figure 15. The coordinates of each measuring points are
determined by the specific location on one tank side surface. Taking measuring point #1 as an
Electronics 2019, 8, 842 10 of 19
example, its coordinate is (−0.56, 0.52).

A B C

1840 mm

#1 #6 #11 255 mm
#2 #7 #12
2625 mm
#3 #8 #13
#4 #9 #14
#5 #10 #15

955 mm

6490 mm

(a) (b)
Electronics 2019, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 10 of 19
Figure
Figure 14.
14. (a)
(a)Accelerometer
Accelerometer location
location of
of the
the transformer
transformer tank;
tank; (b)
(b) the
the test
test transformer.
transformer.

Figure 15. Measurement point distribution and establishment of coordinate system.

Figure 15. Measurement point distribution and establishment of coordinate system.
Low voltage terminals were short-circuited, and the voltage was applied on the high voltage
Low voltage terminals were short-circuited, and the voltage was applied on the high voltage
terminals with the small amplitude, in order to avoid the impact of the core vibration. Currents were
terminals with the small amplitude, in order to avoid the impact of the core vibration. Currents were
loaded on three phases simultaneously, and gradually increased from 20% rated loading current to
loaded on three phases simultaneously, and gradually increased from 20% rated loading current to
100% rated loading current, an increase by 10% rated loading current each time.
100% rated loading current, an increase by 10% rated loading current each time.
Four cases of transformer vibrations were studied. The first case was for the transformer operation
Four cases of transformer vibrations were studied. The first case was for the transformer
in a normal condition. The other three cases were for the transformer operation in various abnormal
operation in a normal condition. The other three cases were for the transformer operation in various
conditions. Under each case, vibration signals of every measuring point were recorded along with the
abnormal conditions. Under each case, vibration signals of every measuring point were recorded
current of different levels.
along with the current of different levels.
4.2. Vibration Distribution under Normal/Abnormal Conditions
4.2. Vibration Distribution under Normal/Abnormal Conditions
Before artificial winding defects are operated on the experimental transformer, vibration signal
Before
data was artificialunder
measured winding defects
normal are operated
conditions on the experimental transformer, vibration signal
for comparison.
data From
was measured under normal conditions for comparison.
the vibration signal and its frequency spectrum it can be seen that under normal conditions,
the vibrationthe
From vibration
signal at pointsignal and itssinusoidal
#5 is a typical frequency wave,spectrum
and almost it can be seen
contain that under
no harmonic normal
components,
conditions, the vibration
as shown in Figure 16. signal at point #5 is a typical sinusoidal wave, and almost contain no
harmonic components, as shown in Figure 16.
According to the definition in Equation (2), the vibration distribution pattern on the transformer
According
tank surface can be todescribed
the definition in Equation
by a matrix V 5×3 (100). (2), the patterns
The 3D vibration distribution
of the pattern
100 Hz vibration on the
amplitude
transformer tank surface can be described by a
vibration distribution under different loading currents are shownmatrix V5× 3 (100 ) . The 3D patterns of the 100
in Figure 17. From the figure it can Hz
vibration
be amplitude
concluded that thevibration
vibrationdistribution
distributionunder
on the different
tank at loading currents are
100 Hz followed shownpattern
a certain in Figure 17.
under
various loading currents. Additionally, it is obvious that vibration signals detected from right anda
From the figure it can be concluded that the vibration distribution on the tank at 100 Hz followed
certain
left pattern
regions under
of the various tank
transformer loading
havecurrents.
relatively Additionally,
higher amplitude,it is obvious that vibration
and gradually grow up signals
with
the loading current. Vibration amplitude values of the middle part (x = 0) along the vertical direction
detected from right and left regions of the transformer tank have relatively higher amplitude, and
gradually
remain grow
small evenupunder
with the
the loading current.
high loading Vibration
current level. amplitude
Such phenomenon values ofcanthebemiddle part by
explained (x =the
0)
along the vertical
distribution direction
of the leakage fluxremain
density.small even tounder
According the high
the Lorentz law, loading currentof level.
the interaction Such
the current
phenomenon can be explained by the distribution of the leakage flux density. According to the
Lorentz law, the interaction of the current and leakage flux density results in electromagnetic forces
acting on the windings. Previous research have simulated the leakage flux density of three phase
transformers, and reveals that under normal conditions, the leakage flux density of the middle part
of the transformer is smaller than that of the boundary part [21]. What’s more, the distribution at 100
Electronics 2019, 8, 842 11 of 19

and leakage flux density results in electromagnetic forces acting on the windings. Previous research
have simulated the leakage flux density of three phase transformers, and reveals that under normal
conditions, the leakage flux density of the middle part of the transformer is smaller than that of the
boundary part [21]. What’s more, the distribution at 100 Hz has approximately bilateral (left–right)
symmetry across the y axis (x = 0). The spatial distribution condition on the vertical direction of the
tank is quite
Electronics different
2019, 8, compared
x FOR PEER REVIEW with that of the winding. Since that winding vibration transmits to
11 of 19
the tank through the oil and the structure-borne transmission via the footpad, some points on the
tank are determined by the oil-borne transmission, while others depend on the structure-borne modal
Electronics 2019, 8, of
characteristics x FOR
thePEER
tankREVIEW
[20]. 11 of 19

Figure 16. Tank vibration signal under normal conditions with the rated current at measuring point
#5.
Figure 16. Tank vibration signal under normal conditions with the rated current at measuring point #5.
Figure 16. Tank vibration signal under normal conditions with the rated current at measuring point
#5.

Figure 17. Tank vibration distribution patterns with the increasing current under normal conditions.
Figure 17. Tank vibration distribution patterns with the increasing current under normal conditions.
4.2.1. Case 2.1: Effects of Clamping Force Looseness
4.2.1.In
Case
this2.1:
case,Effects of Clamping
the clamping Force
structures ofLooseness
the winding for three phases were moderately loosened with
Figure
the clamping 17. Tank
force vibration
reduced distribution
to 60%, patterns
individually. with
The the increasing
loading current under normal conditions. on
In this case, the clamping structures of the winding for currents were
three phases applied
were simultaneously
moderately loosened
three windings and gradually increased from 20% rated loading current
with the clamping force reduced to 60%, individually. The loading currents were applied to 100% rated loading current
4.2.1. Case 2.1: Effects of Clamping Force Looseness
in the interval of 10%.
simultaneously on three windings and gradually increased from 20% rated loading current to 100%
ratedIn
The this case,
waveform
loading the and
current clamping structures
frequency
in the interval of the
spectrum
of 10%. ofwinding
the tank for three phases
vibration were moderately
at measuring loosened
point #5 under the
with
clampingthe clamping
force force
looseness reduced
condition to
are 60%,
plotted individually.
as shown in The
Figureloading
18. It
The waveform and frequency spectrum of the tank vibration at measuring point #5 under the currents
can be were
observed applied
that the
simultaneously
vibration
clamping signal on three
barely
force looseness windings
contains and
aregradually
harmonic
condition asincreased
components
plotted under
shown infrom
such20% rated
minor
Figure 18. loading
Itwinding
can current that
defects.
be observed to 100%
the
rated loading current in the interval of 10%.
vibration signal barely contains harmonic components under such minor winding defects.
The 3D
The waveform
patternsand frequency
of the spectrumamplitude
100 Hz vibration of the tankdistribution
vibration atunder
measuring point
clamping #5 under
force the
looseness
clamping force
conditions of thelooseness
three phase condition
windings arewith
plotted as shown
different in Figure
loading current18. It can
levels arebe observed
shown that the
in Figure 19.
vibration signal barely contains harmonic components under such minor
Whichever phase was loosened, significant changes could be observed at the middle part (near towinding defects.
phaseThe B) 3D
of patterns
the tank.ofWith the 100theHz vibration
increase amplitude
of the loadingdistribution
current, the under clamping
vibration force
at the looseness
middle part
conditions
became of the
more three phase windings with different loading current levels are shown in Figure 19.
violent.
Whichever phase was loosened, significant changes could be observed at the middle part (near to
phase B) of the tank. With the increase of the loading current, the vibration at the middle part
became more violent.
Electronics 2019, 8, 842 12 of 19
Electronics 2019, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 12 of 19

Electronics 2019, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 12 of 19

(a) (b)
amplitude(g)Vibration amplitude(g)

0.05

(a) -0.05 (b)

0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Time(ms)
amplitude(g)

0.05
0.06

0.040
Vibration

0.02
Vibration amplitude(g)Vibration

-0.05
00 10 20 30 40 50 60
0 200 400 600
Time(ms) 800 1000
Frequency(Hz)
0.06

0.04 (c)

Figure 18.
18. Tank vibration 0.02
vibration signal force looseness
looseness conditions
conditions ofof each
each winding
winding with
with the
Figure under clamping force
rated current at measuring point #5. (a) A phase winding looseness; (b) B phase winding looseness;
rated current at measuring point #5. (a) A phase winding looseness; (b) B phase winding looseness; (c)
0
0 200 400 600 800 1000
(c)phase
C C phase winding
winding looseness.
looseness. Frequency(Hz)

The 3D patterns of the 100 Hz vibration amplitude (c) distribution under clamping force looseness
conditions
Figure 18. Tank vibration signal under clamping force loosenesscurrent
of the three phase windings with different loading levels
conditions arewinding
of each shown in Figure
with the 19.
Whichever
rated current at measuring point #5. (a) A phase winding looseness; (b) B phase winding looseness; to
phase was loosened, significant changes could be observed at the middle part (near
phase(c)B)Cofphase
the tank. With
winding the increase of the loading current, the vibration at the middle part became
looseness.
more violent.

(a) (b)

(a) (b)

Figure 19. Cont.

Electronics 2019, 8, 842
x FOR PEER REVIEW 13of
13 of 19

Electronics 2019, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 13 of 19

(c)
(c)
Figure 19. Tank
Tank vibration
vibration distribution
distribution patterns
patterns with the increasing current under clamping force
Figure 19.
looseness Tank vibration
conditions distribution
of each winding. (a) patterns with the looseness;
increasing current under clamping force
(a) A
A phase
phase winding
winding looseness; (b)
(b) BB phase
phase winding
winding looseness;
looseness;
looseness conditions of each winding. (a) A phase winding looseness; (b) B phase winding looseness;
(c) C phase winding looseness.
(c) C phase winding looseness.
When phase A or phase C was loosened, the vibration distribution generally follows the pattern
When phase A or phase C was loosened, the vibration distribution generally follows the pattern
observed in the normal condition (Case 1). However, However, the high load (i.e., 100% rated rated loading
loading current)
current)
observed in the normal condition (Case 1). However, the high load (i.e., 100% rated loading current)
leads to differences of the vibration amplitudes between the left parts and the right parts, which
leads to differences of the vibration amplitudes between the left parts and the right parts, which
brought about obvious left–right asymmetry in the patterns. patterns.
brought about obvious left–right asymmetry in the patterns.
In contrast, the looseness
looseness of phase B showed different characteristics in the tank vibration
In contrast, the looseness of phase B showed different characteristics in the tank vibration
distributions. The
distributions. The vibration
vibration amplitude
amplitude at the middle
middle (near to to phase B) B) of
of the tank showed equal or
distributions. The vibration amplitudeatatthe the middle (near
(near to phase
phase B) of the tank showed equal or
larger amplitude than those left and right parts, while the vibration amplitudes the middle
larger amplitude than thoseatatthe
the left and right parts, while the vibration amplitudes atatthe middle
part were
were
part weremuch
much
much smaller
smaller than
smallerthan those
thanthose atthe
thoseatat theother
the other
other parts
parts
parts forfor
for Case
Case
Case 1. 1. addition,
In
1. In In addition,
addition, although
although
although phase
phase
phase BBwas
wasB
was moderately
moderately
moderately loosened,
loosened,
loosened, a bilateral
a abilateral
bilateral (left–right)
(left–right)
(left–right) symmetry
symmetry
symmetry across
across
across thethe
the y axis
yy axis
axis (x(x===0)
(x 0)0)ininthe
in thevibration
the vibration
distributions can still be found in this case.
distributions can still be found in this case.

4.2.2.
4.2.2. Case
Case2.2:
4.2.2. 2.2:Effects
Case2.2: Effects
EffectsofofofWinding
Winding Global
WindingGlobal Looseness
GlobalLooseness
Looseness
In In
In this
this experiment,
experiment,
this experiment, global
globallooseness
global looseness waswas
looseness introduced
wasintroduced to theto
introduced phase
to the Bphase
winding
phase by replacing
BB winding
winding the insulating
byreplacing
by replacing the
the
spacers
insulating with
insulating thinner
spacers
spacerswithspacer
withthinner (2 mm,
thinnerspacer70% of
spacer(2(2mm,the origin
mm, 70% 70% of value),
of the along with
the origin value), removing
value), along
along with the support
withremoving
removingthe bars.
the
The winding
support
support bars. vibrations
bars.TheThe
winding under
winding normal and
vibrations
vibrations defected
under
under normal
normal conditions
and defected
and wereconditions
defected collected with
conditions werethe
were applied
collected
collected current
with
withthe
the
gradually
applied increased
current from
gradually 10% rated
increasedloading
from
applied current gradually increased from 10% rated loadingcurrent
10% to
rated 100%
loading rated loading
current to current
100% in
rated the interval
loading of
current
100% rated loading current in 10%.
in
thetheThe waveform
interval
interval of of 10%.and frequency spectrum of the vibration signal detected from the index #5
10%.
measuring
TheThe point,
waveform
waveform areand
shown
andfrequencyas in Figure
frequency spectrum20. The
spectrum of vibration
of the
the vibration
vibration amplitudes become
signal detected
signal detected fromlarge,
from the
thenearly
indextwo
index #5#5
times that
measuring in the normal
point, are case.
shown The
as waveform
in Figure is
20. slightly
The distorted,
vibration which
amplitudes
measuring point, are shown as in Figure 20. The vibration amplitudes become large, nearly two was in
become accordance
large, with
nearly the
two
phenomenon
times that inobserved
the normal in the
case.winding
The vibration
waveform is (Figure
slightly 21).
distorted, which
times that in the normal case. The waveform is slightly distorted, which was in accordance with the was in accordance with the
phenomenon
phenomenon observed
observed ininthe
thewinding
windingvibration
vibration(Figure
(Figure 21).21).

Figure Tank
20. 20.
Figure vibration
Tank signal
vibration underunder
signal globalglobal
looseness conditions
looseness with thewith
conditions ratedthe
current
ratedatcurrent
measuring
at
Figure 20.
measuring
point #5. Tank vibration
point #5. signal under global looseness conditions with the rated current at
measuring point #5.
Electronics 2019, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 14 of 19

Electronics 2019, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 14 of 19

Electronics 2019, 8, 842 14 of 19

Figure 21. Tank vibration distribution patterns with the increasing current under winding global
looseness conditions.
Figure 21. Tank vibration distribution patterns with the increasing current under winding global
looseness
Figure
From 21.conditions.
the Tank
3D vibration
patterns of distribution
the 100 Hzpatterns with
vibration the increasing
amplitude current under
distribution underwinding
global global
looseness
looseness conditions.
condition, what is most remarkable is that the vibration pattern has been thoroughly different from
From the 3D patterns of the 100 Hz vibration amplitude distribution under global looseness
that of Case 1, and dramatically varied with the loading currents. For example, the amplitude
condition,
From whatthe 3D is most remarkable
patterns of the 100is that
Hzthe vibrationamplitude
vibration pattern has been thoroughly
distribution underdifferent from that
global looseness
difference of the vibration was0.024 g and 0.062 g respectively, for 50% and 100% of the loading
of Case 1, and dramatically varied with the loading currents. For example,
condition, what is most remarkable is that the vibration pattern has been thoroughly different from the amplitude difference of
current. When the defected transformer applied with the 100% rated loading current, the vibration
the vibration
that of Case was 1, and0.024 g and 0.062 g
dramatically respectively,
varied with theforloading
50% andcurrents.
100% of theForloading
example, current. When the
the amplitude
amplitudes at the middle bottom part of the tank become excessively large, more than five times that
defected transformer applied with the 100% rated loading current, the
difference of the vibration was0.024 g and 0.062 g respectively, for 50% and 100% of the loading vibration amplitudes at the
of the top part. It is because of that the vibration amplitude at the bottom parts of the winding varied
middle bottom
current. When part of the tank
the defected become excessively
transformer applied with large, more
the 100% than fiveloading
rated times that of the the
current, top vibration
part. It is
dramatically with the increasing loading current when the winding was globally loosened.
because of that
amplitudes themiddle
at the vibration amplitude
bottom part of atthe
thetank
bottom parts excessively
become of the winding varied
large, more dramatically
than five timeswiththat
the
However, with the replacement of the insulating spacers, symmetry along the vertical direction can
increasing loading current when the winding was globally loosened. However,
of the top part. It is because of that the vibration amplitude at the bottom parts of the winding varied with the replacement
also be found in this case.
of the insulating
dramatically spacers,
with symmetry along
the increasing loading thecurrent
vertical direction
when thecanwinding
also be found in this case.
was globally loosened.
However,
4.2.3. with the replacement of the insulating spacers, symmetry along the vertical direction can
4.2.3.Case
Case3:3:Effects
EffectsofofWinding
WindingRadial
RadialDeformation
Deformation
also be found in this case.
Apart
Apartfrom fromthethewinding
windinglooseness
loosenessconditions,
conditions,the theradial
radialdeformation
deformation(forces
(forcesbuckling)
buckling)mode modeisis
also
alsoaatypical
4.2.3. Case
typical3: kind
kindof
Effects ofwinding
of Winding
winding defect,
Radial
defect, and
and ititwill
willresult
Deformation resultin inan
anincrease
increaseofofthe
thewinding
windingto tothe
theground,
ground,as as
well as a
well Apart decrease
as a decrease of the winding capacitance [20]. In this experiment, the coils in the middle part of
from the winding looseness conditions, the radial deformation (forces buckling) mode of
of the winding capacitance [20]. In this experiment, the coils in the middle part is
the phase A winding was forced buckled
buckled throughaaseries seriesofofshort-circuit
short-circuit tests,asasshown
shown in Figure
also a typicalwinding
the phase A was forced
kind of winding defect, and through
it will result in an increase of thetests,
winding to theinground,
Figure 22.
as
22. During
During the experiment, the on-load experimentswereInwere carried out under
again different
under different loading
well as athe experiment,
decrease of thethe on-load
winding experiments
capacitance [20]. carried out again
this experiment, the coils in theloading
middlecurrents
part of
currents
(20% (20% to 100%), and the vibrations from different measurement points were synchronously
the phase A winding was forced buckled through a series of short-circuit tests, as showncollected.
to 100%), and the vibrations from different measurement points were synchronously in Figure
collected.
22. During the experiment, the on-load experiments were carried out again under different loading
currents (20% to 100%), and the vibrations from different measurement points were synchronously
collected.

Figure 22. Artificial winding deformation: Radial buckling of the A phase winding after short-circuit.
Figure 22. Artificial winding deformation: Radial buckling of the A phase winding after short-circuit.

The waveform and frequency spectrum of vibration signal detected from the index #5 measuring
The waveform and frequency spectrum of vibration signal detected from the index #5
pointFigure
are shown in Figure
22. Artificial 23.deformation:
winding The vibration amplitude
Radial buckling ofisthe
much larger
A phase thanafter
winding thatshort-circuit.
in other cases.
measuring point are shown in Figure 23. The vibration amplitude is much larger than that in other
Additionally it can be observed that the vibration waveform is severely distorted, with various higher
orderThe waveform
harmonics whenand the frequency
winding was spectrum
severely of vibration signal detected from the index #5
deformed.
measuring point are shown in Figure 23. The vibration amplitude is much larger than that in other
 The 100 Hz vibration amplitude distributions under different loading currents are shown in
Figure 24. It can be found that the deformation leads to a significant rise in vibration amplitudes on
the transformer tank. What’s more, with the increase of the loading current, the vibration
distributions dramatically varied. Disturbance and instability were introduced into the winding
Electronics 2019, 8, 842 15 of 19
vibration system by the winding deformation. In addition, the symmetry across the y axis is totally
broken in this case.

Electronics 2019, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 15 of 19

cases. Additionally it can be observed that the vibration waveform is severely distorted, with
various higher order harmonics when the winding was severely deformed.
The 100 Hz vibration amplitude distributions under different loading currents are shown in
Figure 24. It can be found that the deformation leads to a significant rise in vibration amplitudes on
the transformer tank. What’s more, with the increase of the loading current, the vibration
distributions dramatically varied. Disturbance and instability were introduced into the winding
vibration system
Figure by vibration
23. Tank the winding deformation.
signal In addition,
under winding theconditions
deformation symmetrywith
across the y current
the rated axis is totally
at
Figure 23. Tank vibration signal under winding deformation conditions with the rated current at
broken in this case.
measuring point #5.
measuring point #5.
The 100 Hz vibration amplitude distributions under different loading currents are shown in
Figure 24. It can be found that the deformation leads to a significant rise in vibration amplitudes on
the transformer tank. What’s more, with the increase of the loading current, the vibration distributions
dramatically varied. Disturbance and instability were introduced into the winding vibration system by
the winding deformation. In addition, the symmetry across the y axis is totally broken in this case.
According to the results in these four cases, the tank vibration distribution is also determined
by the mechanical condition of the internal parts. Similar to the observations in Section 3, when
the transformer is operating in a healthy condition, the vibration distribution on the tank at 100 Hz
follows a certain pattern with approximate bilateral (left–right) symmetry across the horizontal axis.
Occurrence of the faults directly brings changes in the vibration pattern at certain parts, due to the
sharp grow of the vibration amplitude. The clamping force looseness (for phases A and C) and
deformation of the winding have a significant effect on the mechanical structure symmetry of the
transformer internal part, which directly causes the asymmetry in the vibration distribution on the
tank.Figure
In addition,
23. Tanksevere faultsignal
vibration situations
under will directly
winding introduce
deformation disturbance
conditions with and instability
the rated currentinatto the
vibration system,
measuring and
point #5.lead to a dramatical variation of the vibration distribution with respect to the
Figure 24. Tank vibration distribution patterns with increasing currents under winding global
loading current.
looseness conditions.

According to the results in these four cases, the tank vibration distribution is also determined
by the mechanical condition of the internal parts. Similar to the observations in Section 3, when the
transformer is operating in a healthy condition, the vibration distribution on the tank at 100 Hz
follows a certain pattern with approximate bilateral (left–right) symmetry across the horizontal axis.
Occurrence of the faults directly brings changes in the vibration pattern at certain parts, due to the
sharp grow of the vibration amplitude. The clamping force looseness (for phases A and C) and
deformation of the winding have a significant effect on the mechanical structure symmetry of the
transformer internal part, which directly causes the asymmetry in the vibration distribution on the
tank. In addition, severe fault situations will directly introduce disturbance and instability in to the
vibration system, and lead to a dramatical variation of the vibration distribution with respect to the
loading current.

Figure 24. Tank vibration distribution patterns with increasing currents under winding global
Figure 24.conditions.
looseness Tank vibration distribution patterns with increasing currents under winding global
looseness conditions.

According to the results in these four cases, the tank vibration distribution is also determined
by the mechanical condition of the internal parts. Similar to the observations in Section 3, when the
transformer is operating in a healthy condition, the vibration distribution on the tank at 100 Hz
follows a certain pattern with approximate bilateral (left–right) symmetry across the horizontal axis.
Occurrence of the faults directly brings changes in the vibration pattern at certain parts, due to the
sharp grow of the vibration amplitude. The clamping force looseness (for phases A and C) and
deformation of the winding have a significant effect on the mechanical structure symmetry of the
transformer internal part, which directly causes the asymmetry in the vibration distribution on the
Electronics 2019, 8, 842 16 of 19

4.3. Vibration Distribution Characteristics

The vibration distribution center is defined and used to describe the characteristics of the vibration
distribution under different mechanical conditions and different loading currents. The coordinate
_ _
(x f ,L , y f ,L ) of the vibration distribution center (VDC) at frequency f is given by:
 PN   PN   
_ _  i=1 vi, f ,L xi i = 1
vi, f ,L  yi 
(x f ,L , y f ,L ) =  PN   , P 
N
  (3)
i=1
v i, f ,L v  
i=1 i, f ,L

where xi yi are the position coordinates of the index #i measurement point on the transformer tank,
vi,f,L is the vibration amplitude at frequency f under the loading current L from the measurement point.
N 
P 
The denominator vi, f ,L  is the absolute summation of the vibration amplitude from all measurement

i=1
points, which is used for normalization.
The coordinates of the vibration distribution centers under different mechanical conditions are
plotted in Figure 25, where colors of the markers represent the corresponding loading currents. The red
stars represent the average coordinates of the vibration distribution centers (VDCavg ) under increasing
loading currents, and the circles marked out the corresponding changing range.
When the transformer is under a healthy condition, the average coordinate of the vibration
distribution center is at (0.003 0.1575). With the increasing winding current, the vertical coordinates of
VDC keeps almost unchanged at y = 0.16. Figure 25b–d indicate that the local changes in the winding’s
structure (due to the decrease of the clamping force looseness) result in a variation of the vibration
distribution characteristics under different currents. It is remarkable that VDCavg moves to (−0.008,
0.138), (−0.002, 0.154), (−0.027, 0.149), due to the individual clamping force looseness of the A, B, and C
phase windings, respectively. This slight shift of VDCavg reflects the minor changes of the transformer
mechanical properties. In this case, the vertical coordinates of VDC vary in a relatively larger range
with the increasing loading currents, compared with that of the normal case.
Figure 25e–f shows that severe defects in the winding structure do cause significant fluctuation
in the vibration distribution under varying currents. Under global looseness conditions, the VDCavg
moves towards the bottom parts of the tank, and locates at (−0.029, 0.022). The jump of the VDCavg
indicates that the global looseness leads to significant changes of the transformer mechanical properties.
The changing range of VDC with the increasing current is further enlarged in both the horizontal
direction and the vertical direction, compared with those of the normal case.
Under the winding deformation condition, the VDCavg jumps to (0.007, 0.096), caused by
significant changes of the transformer mechanical properties. In addition, the total chaos vibration
distribution along both the vertical and horizontal conditions under different loading currents leads
to the dispersion of VDC in the vertical direction and relatively concentrated range. It implies that
severe winding defects significantly changes the mechanical structure dynamic characteristics, the
vibration distribution center horizontal coordinate is no longer sensitive to the varying loading current
compared with that under the normal case, but the vertical coordinate became more mutative with the
changing loading currents.
Electronics 2019, 8, 842 17 of 19
Electronics 2019, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 17 of 19

(a) (b)

(c) (d)

(e) (f)

Figure 25. VDCs

Figure 25. VDCsunder
under
(a)(a) normal
normal condition;
condition; (b) A (b) A winding
phase phase winding
clampingclamping force conditions;
force looseness looseness
conditions; (c) B phase winding clamping force looseness conditions; (d) C phase
(c) B phase winding clamping force looseness conditions; (d) C phase winding clamping winding clamping
force
force looseness conditions; (e) global looseness conditions; (f) winding deformation condition with
looseness conditions; (e) global looseness conditions; (f) winding deformation condition with different
different
winding winding
currents. currents.

5. Conclusions
In this paper, the spatial distributions of the transformer vibration under different winding
mechanical conditions and different loading currents are studied. Experiments were firstly designed
to research the vibration distribution on the winding, and showed that the vibration distribution and
Electronics 2019, 8, 842 18 of 19

5. Conclusions
In this paper, the spatial distributions of the transformer vibration under different winding
mechanical conditions and different loading currents are studied. Experiments were firstly designed to
research the vibration distribution on the winding, and showed that the vibration distribution and
its changes due to the varying loading currents are related with the winding mechanical conditions.
Taken the vibration transmission paths of the transformer structure into consideration, the vibration
distribution of the transformer tank under different artificial winding defects cases was also measured.
Results of the experiments can be summarized as follows:
(1) Under normal condition, the distribution patterns remain stable with the changing of the
loading current, and show an obvious symmetry along the x direction.
(2) Partial looseness of the winding, caused by the looseness of the clamping structure, will
strengthen the vibration at the middle part (near to the B phase winding) of the tank, especially under
high loading currents. Therefore, the overall vibration distribution characteristics slightly change
under different loading current levels.
(3) Global looseness and winding deformation will further enhance the overall vibration amplitude
levels, especially to the bottom part of the tank region, and makes the vibration distribution condition
more chaos and irregular under different loading current levels. Moreover, under these conditions,
higher order harmonics are introduced into the winding vibration signal.
(4) The VDC was used to describe the characteristics of the vibration distributions. Additionally it
turned out to be a sensitive and accurate measure of common winding faults, and have the potential to
be a criterion for further online detection and classification of winding defects.

Author Contributions: Conceptualization, Y.H., H.H. and J.Z.; Data curation, Y.H. and J.Z.; Formal analysis,
Y.H.; Funding acquisition, H.H. and J.Z.; Investigation, Y.H., H.H. and J.Z.; Methodology, Y.H. and J.Z.; Project
administration, H.H.; Resources, H.H. and J.Z.; Software, Y.H.; Supervision, H.H. and J.Z.; Validation, Y.H.;
Visualization, Y.H.; Writing—original draft, Y.H.; Writing—review and editing, Y.H., H.H. and J.Z.
Funding: This project was supported by the China National Science Foundation (Grant No. 61603335) and the
Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province, China (Grant No. LY19F030024).
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

References
1. Bengtsson, C. Status and trends in transformer monitoring. IEEE Trans. Power Deliv. 1996, 11, 1379–1384.
[CrossRef]
2. Du, X.; Pan, J.; Guzzomi, A. Modeling the Hysteresis Characteristics of Transformer Core under Various
Excitation Level via On-Line Measurements. Electronics 2018, 7, 390. [CrossRef]
3. Hong, K.X.; Pan, Z.P.; Huang, H. Modeling and Analysis of Winding Axial Vibration of Power Transformer.
Transformer 2010, 47, 32–37.
4. Zhou, H.; Hong, K.; Huang, H.; Zhou, J. Transformer winding fault detection by vibration analysis methods.
Appl. Acoust. 2016, 114, 136–146. [CrossRef]
5. Mechefske, C. Correlating power transformer tank vibration characteristics to winding looseness. Insight
1995, 37, 599–604.
6. Berler, Z.; Golubev, A.; Rusov, V.; Tsvetkov, V.; Patterson, C. Vibro-acoustic method of transformer clamping
pressure monitoring. In Proceedings of the Conference Record of the 2000 IEEE International Symposium on
Electrical Insulation (Cat. No. 00CH37075), Anaheim, CA, USA, 5 April 2000.
7. Bartoletti, C.; Desiderio, M.; Carlo, D.; Fazio, G.; Muzi, F.; Sacerdoti, G.; Salvatori, F. Vibro-acoustic techniques
to diagnose power transformers. IEEE Trans. Power Deliv. 2004, 19, 221–229. [CrossRef]
8. Ji, S.; Liu, W.; Shan, P.; Li, Y. Application of the wavelet packet to the monitoring of the core and winding
condition of transformer. Proc. CSEE 2001, 21, 24–27.
9. Hong, K.; Huang, H.; Zhou, J. A method of real-time fault diagnosis for power transformers based on
vibration analysis. Meas. Sci. Technol. 2015, 26, 115011. [CrossRef]
Electronics 2019, 8, 842 19 of 19

10. Chen, X.; Wang, J.; Huang, H.; Guo, J.; Hong, K. HHT based method for monitoring core clamping pressure
of power transformers. J. Vib. Shock 2010, 9, 9–12.
11. Hong, K.; Huang, H.; Fu, Y.; Zhou, J. A vibration measurement system for health monitoring of power
transformers. Measurement 2016, 93, 135–147. [CrossRef]
12. Lai, W.; Wang, Y.; Li, W.; Sun, G.; Qu, G.; Wang, Y. Study on vibration monitoring and multi-feature analysis
of oil-immersed power transformer in arctic area. In Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on
Power and Renewable Energy (ICPRE), Chengdu, China, 20–23 September 2017; pp. 310–314.
13. García, B.; Burgos, J.C.; Alonso, Á.M. Transformer tank vibration modeling as a method of detecting winding
deformations-part I: Theoretical foundation. IEEE Trans. Power Deliv. 2005, 21, 157–163. [CrossRef]
14. García, B.; Burgos, J.C.; Alonso, Á.M. Transformer tank vibration modeling as a method of detecting winding
deformations-part II: Experimental verification. IEEE Trans. Power Deliv. 2005, 21, 164–169. [CrossRef]
15. Shengchang, J.; Lingyu, Z.; Yanming, L. Study on transformer tank vibration characteristics in the field and
its application. Przeglad ˛ Elektrotech. 2011, 87, 205–211.
16. Jin, M.; Pan, J. Vibration transmission from internal structures to the tank of an oil-filled power transformer.
Appl. Acoust. 2016, 113, 1–6. [CrossRef]
17. Zheng, J.; Pan, J.; Huang, H. An experimental study of winding vibration of a single-phase power transformer
using a laser Doppler vibrometer. Appl. Acoust. 2015, 87, 30–37. [CrossRef]
18. Li, L.; Du, X.; Pan, J.; Keating, A.; Matthews, D.; Huang, H.; Zheng, J. Distributed Magnetic Flux Density on
the Cross-Section of a Transformer Core. Electronics 2019, 8, 297. [CrossRef]
19. Jing, Z.; Hai, H.; Pan, J.; Yanni, Z. Identification of the nonlinear vibration system of power transformers.
Meas. Sci. Technol. 2017, 28, 015005. [CrossRef]
20. García, B.; Burgos, J.C.; Alonso, Á. Winding deformations detection in power transformers by tank vibrations
monitoring. Electr. Power Syst. Res. 2005, 74, 129–138. [CrossRef]
21. Turowski, J.; Turowski, M.; Kopec, M. Method of three-dimensional network solution of leakage field of
three-phase transformers. IEEE Trans. Magn. 1990, 26, 2911–2919. [CrossRef]

© 2019 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland. This article is an open access
article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution
(CC BY) license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).