Experimental research on the switching characteristics of on-load tap changers

The switching behavior of on-load tap changers (OLTCs) closely relates to the safety and reliability of power transformers. The operation process of multiple groups contact pair (including main contacts, arcing contacts and transition contacts) within the diverter switch is considerably complex. The electrical dynamic response and the mechanical vibration acceleration response of OLTCs are obtained simultaneously by using the designed test rig. Further, the key featured parameters directly dependent on the switching process are extracted and analyzed explicitly. It is determined that the vibration acceleration information of diverter switch within OLTC correlates well with that of the sidewall and top cover outside of oil tank. Finally, the defects of mechanical components are simulated and the associated influences on the variations in vibration acceleration are collected experimentally.