The detection and location of acoustic emissions from partial discharges and other sources in oil immersed power transformers and reactors are covered in this guide. A means of associating the relative magnitude and position of partial discharges and other sources with the acoustic signals obtained by strategically located transducers is provided.

This guide is applicable to the detection and location of acoustic emissions from partial discharges and other sources in oil immersed power transformers and reactors. Both electrical sources (partial discharge) and mechanical sources (such as loose clamping, bolts, or insulation parts) generate these emissions. There are descriptions of acoustic instrumentation, test procedures, and interpretation of results. When this guide is used with oil-immersed reactors, it must be understood that interpretation of signals may be different because of the construction of the reactor. Accuracy of location depends on the type of fault, configuration of tank, type of instrumentation, and experience.

This guide is intended to provide information that may be helpful in planning, installing, and operating acoustic monitoring equipment and in meaningful interpretation of resulting data. Users are intended to be persons knowledgeable in this field such as utility engineers, consultants, academics, and manufacturers.