Magnitudes and characteristics of tank vibrations of Power Transformers

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There have been a number of cases over the years where power transformers experienced what seemed to be high levels of tank vibrations. In some of these cases, the magnitudes of vibrations indicated an issue with the operation of the transformer and in others the magnitude of vibrations was within what is considered normal for those designs. Also, purchasers and users of Power Transformers have often queried whether there is a reference for magnitudes of transformer tank vibrations that is considered normal. While there is reference to Standards for magnitudes of tank vibrations of shunt reactors [1], [2], there is no similar Standard for power transformers. This paper presents results of comprehensive measurements, performed by the authors, of magnitude and frequency components of tank vibrations of a large number of Core form and Shell form Power transformers both in the factory and on - site. Some of these transformers did not have issues with tank vibrations but nevertheless had varying magnitudes of Vibrations. Others had issues with high levels of vibrations attributed to causes identified in the paper. It is hoped that the data and information presented in this paper are used as basis for possible Standards on transformer tank vibrations.