Noise, Vibration and Harmonics in Transformer

Transformer noise, refers to the sound produced by power transformers during their normal
operation and typically manifests as a low-frequency humming noise. This noise problem is
not only bothersome but can also have far-reaching negative effects, making it a critical issue
to address in electrical infrastructure planning and maintenance. It can indicate inefficiency,
leading to energy losses and accelerating wear and tear, potentially shortening the
transformer’s lifespan.

Causes
 Magnetostriction:
At the core of power transformer noise lies the magnetostriction effect, a phenomenon where
the dimensions of ferromagnetic materials change upon an applied magnetic field. When an
electrical transformer is energised, the core, typically made of iron or steel, experiences
periodic magnetisation and demagnetisation. This causes the core to expand and contract
slightly, generating mechanical vibrations. These vibrations produce sound waves that
manifest as the characteristic hum associated with transformers. Addressing the
magnetostriction effect is crucial in minimising the amount of noise and its associated
problems in electrical systems.

 Acoustic Resonance:
Acoustic resonance is a phenomenon that occurs when the natural frequency of a system
matches the frequency of an external force. In the context of electrical transformers, acoustic
resonance can occur when the electromagnetic forces generated during the operation of the
electrical system cause trembling in transformer windings, core and other components. These
trembling can create audible electrical transformer noise, especially when the natural
frequency of the transformer structure coincides with the frequency of the electromagnetic
forces.
This resonance can amplify the noise levels, leading to an increase in the sound intensity
generated by the transformer. Managing and minimising such resonance is crucial in efforts
to reduce electrical transformer sound and ensure quieter operation.

 Harmonics Distortion
Harmonic distortion refers to the presence of unwanted harmonic frequencies in the electrical
system. In transformers, harmonic distortion can be caused by nonlinear loads connected to
the transformer, such as electronic devices, variable speed drives, or power converters. These
nonlinear loads draw non-sinusoidal currents, which introduce harmonic components into the
electrical system. These harmonics can affect the magnetic field within the transformer,
resulting in increased eddy currents and stray losses. The increased losses contribute to higher
operating temperatures, which can cause the transformer’s insulation and core lamination to
vibrate, leading to audible noise.

 Load Conditions
Noise levels are affected by the transformer’s load conditions. Transformers operating at or
near full load tend to be noisier than those at partial load. Effective load management can
help reduce noise. Overloading a transformer beyond its rated capacity can result in increased
heat and electromagnetic forces, leading to excessive noise.

Solution
 Acoustic Enclosures:

Installing soundproof enclosures around transformers can significantly reduce noise

transmission. These enclosures are designed to contain and absorb sound, minimising its
impact on the surroundings.

 Vibration Damping:
Implementing vibration dampeners on transformer components, like core sheets and tanks,
and covering the walls of the transformer cabin with noise-absorbent materials, such as
fibreglass, can effectively reduce noise generated by the transformer.

 Advanced Core and Coil Design:

Engineers can optimise transformer core and coil designs to minimise magneto-elastic
effects, acoustic resonance, and noise by selecting core materials with lower magneto-elastic
properties and adjusting core dimensions as necessary in the transformer design.

 Innovative Noise-Reducing Technologies:

Utilising innovative technologies like low noise transformers, which incorporate specialised
designs and materials to reduce noise emissions, can be an effective long-term solution.
 Load Management:
Careful load management for transformers involves maintaining a stable and balanced load
and avoiding sudden or drastic load changes that can create transient noise spikes.