#26: Vibro-Acoustic Measurements – A New Way to Diagnose Transformer OLTCs

On-load tap changers, also known as O-L-T-Cs, are devices fitted on to power transformers that regulate the output voltage to required levels to maintain a stable voltage level in the electrical grid. To check the reliability of OLTCs, a variety of advanced diagnostic methods have been developed, including the new vibro-acoustic measurement (also known as VAM), which uses vibrations to assess OLTC condition. In this episode of Energy Talks, OLTC diagnostic experts Dr. Karsten Viereck from Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen and OMICRON applications engineer Christoph Engelen talk about the origins and development of the vibro-acoustic measurement, how and when it is performed, how it compliments other OLTC diagnostic methods, as well as how the data is analyzed.