In the power industry, where transformers, reactors, and substations operate continuously under harsh environmental and electrical conditions, ensuring long-term reliability is critical. One of the key yet often underestimated contributors to equipment degradation is vibration. By implementing effective vibration control strategies, companies are not only enhancing performance but significantly extending the operational life of their assets.
Power transformers and associated equipment inherently produce mechanical vibrations, mainly due to magnetostriction in the core materials, the operation of cooling system elements such as fans and oil pumps, and resonance between mechanical structures and electromagnetic forces.
These vibrations can lead to material fatigue and micro-cracking, structural damage to tanks and enclosures, loosening of mechanical joints, and accelerated aging of seals and insulation systems. Without adequate mitigation, the result is increased maintenance costs, unplanned downtime, and reduced equipment lifespan.
Our Solutions
Amorim T&D offers one of the most effective and tailored vibration control solutions for the power transmission and distribution sector for internal and external vibration sources:
- Internal vibration pads are installed between transformer components to absorb vibrations and reduce noise and wear
- Core clamping mechanism prevents direct metal-to-metal contact, thereby reducing vibration transmission paths
- Compressed layer dampers dissipate structural vibration energy on the tank wall
- External vibration pads isolate the entire equipment from the ground. In certain cases, this solution can mitigate vibrations caused during transportation between manufacturing facilities and power stations.
These solutions have demonstrated the ability to reduce noise by up to 10 decibels and isolate more than 95 percent of vibrations in real-world transformer installations.
The use of cork-based damping materials directly supports the long-term operation of transformers and reactors. With high recovery and creep resistance, cork composites maintain mechanical stability under sustained loads. For example, Amorim’s VC2100 and VC6400 pads, used in transformers weighing up to 48 tons, have achieved isolation rates of up to 98 percent during field applications.
Environmental Sustainability
Cork’s benefits go beyond technical performance. As a 100 percent natural, renewable, and recyclable material, cork plays a significant role in environmental sustainability. Each ton of cork harvested contributes to carbon sequestration, capturing up to 73 tons of carbon dioxide. This makes cork-based vibration control an environmentally responsible choice that supports broader sustainability goals in the power industry.
In conclusion, vibration control is not simply about reducing noise. It is a strategic function that enhances equipment durability and operational reliability across the power sector. Through advanced cork-based technologies, companies can safeguard infrastructures, higher periods between maintenances, and promote sustainable practices. As more utilities and manufacturers adopt these innovative solutions, vibration control is becoming a fundamental tool for improving the resilience and performance of modern power systems.
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