Transformer vibration monitoring using a wireless sensor network

Abstract

Transformer vibration monitoring is often at present implemented under laboratory conditions. If it is to be used for preventative maintenance in the field, remote access, limited energy usage and data communications have to be taken into consideration. The present work describes results of a system using an IEEE 802.15.4 based wireless sensor network, a matrix of accelerometers and a communications gateway to measure the distribution of frequency amplitudes across a transformer tank surface. Frequency spectra at different positions on the surface show harmonics and the variation of vibration amplitudes across the surface are presented. With a change in load conditions the distribution of frequency amplitudes varies. The system can be installed on a remote transformer with only minor adaptations to ruggedise it.