How to control transformer noise in power systems?

Transformers are widely used as important electrical equipment in power systems. However, transformers generate noise during operation, which can affect not only the transformer itself but also the surrounding environment and people. Therefore, the management and control of transformer noise is particularly important. This paper aims to explore the sources of transformer noise and propose corresponding noise control measures to reduce the adverse impacts on the environment and people.

Noise source analysis:

The main noise sources generated by a transformer during operation can be summarized as follows:

1. Magnetic field induced vibration: When a transformer operates under the influence of a magnetic field, the magnetic core and coil will vibrate due to the influence of the alternating magnetic field, thus generating a certain amount of noise.

2. Eddy current noise: Eddy currents are generated in the core and coils of a transformer during operation. When these eddy currents move inside the transformer, they cause the core to vibrate, which eventually leads to noise.

3. Mechanical resonance: Certain parts of a transformer structure may have natural frequencies. When these parts are subjected to external excitation that matches their natural frequencies, mechanical resonance will occur, generating noise.

4. Ventilation system noise: The heat dissipation system of a transformer usually includes fans and vents, which generate some noise when they are running.

5. Environmental noise transmission: Some transformer noise will be transmitted to the surrounding environment through the air, buildings, etc., causing interference to nearby residents and workers.

Noise control measures:

1. Reduce magnetic field induced vibration: In order to reduce the noise generated by magnetic field induced vibration, low-noise design can be adopted in the design stage, such as using low magnetic resistance materials and rationally designing the core structure; in addition, increasing the insulation material and reducing the coil current density can also effectively reduce vibration noise.

2. Reduce eddy current noise: Lowering eddy current losses in the transformer core and coils is a crucial means of reducing eddy current noise. Using high-quality core materials, optimizing transformer structure design, and reducing coil resistance are all effective measures to reduce noise generated by eddy currents.

3. Preventing mechanical resonance: To prevent mechanical resonance in the transformer structure, finite element analysis can be performed during the design phase to optimize structural parameters and avoid the generation of resonance noise.

4. Controlling ventilation system noise: To control the noise generated by the transformer ventilation system, low-noise fan equipment can be selected, ventilation openings can be designed reasonably, and the wind speed during the operation of the ventilation system can be reduced.

5. Take noise reduction measures: For the environmental noise generated by the transformer, measures such as setting up soundproof walls around the transformer, using sound-absorbing materials, and adjusting the placement of the transformer can be considered to effectively reduce the spread of environmental noise.

6. Noise monitoring and control: Regularly monitor the noise level generated by the transformer, promptly identify problems and take measures to control and adjust them, so as to ensure the normal operation of the transformer while reducing the noise level.

In conclusion, transformer noise has a certain impact on the surrounding environment and people, therefore effective noise control measures must be taken. Through optimized design, appropriate material selection, control of ventilation noise, and noise reduction, the noise generated by transformers during operation can be effectively reduced, ensuring their normal operation while minimizing their impact on the surrounding environment. In future engineering practice, more noise control technologies should be continuously explored to improve the quietness and environmental friendliness of transformer operation.