Transformer and Reactor Mechanical Condition Assessment

This chapter provides an overview of how transformers and reactors may experience mechanical damage during operation, particularly due to external short-circuits. The potential effects on the reliability of these critical assets are explored. Key aspects include the causes of mechanical damage, different winding failure modes arising from external short-circuits, and various mechanical condition assessment techniques. The chapter concludes with a detailed description of frequency response analysis (FRA), which stands out as the most effective method for assessing the mechanical condition of transformer and reactor windings.