Research on extraction technique of transformer core fundamental frequency vibration based on OLCM

This paper presents a new technique based on vibration measurement to diagnose power transformers, which is called the onload current method (OLCM). It can acquire the fundamental frequency component of the core vibration signal without running the transformer at the open-circuit condition. The diagnostic method adopted and the experimental test results are reported. Tests have been performed at normal operating conditions in both the manufactory and the laboratory. With the tests performed in the manufactory, the vibration characteristics of transformer windings and core are described, and then the principle of OLCM is introduced. To verify the validity of OLCM, the laboratory tests are conducted which relates the transformer vibrations to the simulative fault. But the presented method was verified on a 5-kVA transformer which is a very far cry from an actual power transformer. It needs to be developed further before OLCM can be used effectively on the transformer in the field