The dependence of transformer sound power measurement accuracy on microphone configurations in the anechoic chamber.

Abstract

The paper is aimed at investigating the number and location of microphones required to accurately calculate the sound power level of a harmonic noise source. The measurement procedure performed is based on the IEC standard for the determination of transformer sound power level. The current procedure defines numerous measurement points around the tested transformer. Reducing the number of measurement points could significantly speed up the measurement procedure when a transformer is tested during the manufacturing process. Within the research work, estimations on the number and location of measurement points are identified to accurately calculate sound power level. The approach is tested and validated using specially developed software in LabView, that allows inclusion or exclusion of measurement points from the sound power level calculations. To prevent harmonic wave interference, acoustic wave reflections and background noise, the measurement procedure took place in the anechoic chamber.