L2 TCA Course – e-lesson #8 – Vibration and sound analysis: Master’s level

This transformer vibration and sound analysis lesson introduces the importance of expanding maintenance practices beyond traditional electrical tests. The presenter shares his experience discovering the value of vibration analysis through a chance encounter with a vibration expert decades ago. The lesson covers using vibration analyzers to detect developing mechanical issues before they lead to costly transformer failures. It explores case studies demonstrating how vibration and sound level changes can indicate loosening components. The presentation explains interpreting waterfall plots to identify frequency shifts that signal looseness. Monitoring oil pump conditions through vibration and ultrasonic analysis is also discussed. The lesson emphasizes the role of sound level measurements, particularly using C-weighting, to complement vibration data in a comprehensive predictive maintenance program.