vibration sensors - 120 hertz

[magoo2]

As an electrical guy, I'd like some suggestions on a vibration sensor that detects 120 hertz vibration and provides an electrical contact that opens or closes. The application is for a large power transformer. Ideally it would be a device that could be mounted on the outside of the tank, which is steel. Maybe magnetically attached.

Is there something like this readily available? I've tried Google but I'm finding a bunch on devices that don't fit the bill. Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance.

 

[zekeman]

Why don't you google "vibration switched"?

 

[magoo2]

I found some vibration switches that look like they will work. Many thanks, zekeman.

 

[ScottyUK]

I'm curious: why would the transformer be subject to vibration severe enough to warrant monitoring on the tank?


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If we learn from our mistakes I'm getting a great education!

 

[magoo2]

It's a way to detect if the transformer is energized or not. If the core is energized, you get the 120 Hz vibration. If it is not, you don't get any vibration. We can do that electrically in most cases but in my case I have a need to do it mechanically.

 

[ScottyUK]

Interesting idea. Can you explain a little more about the reasons for doing this and why the electrical methods aren't suitable? Is this a commercial product / development idea?


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If we learn from our mistakes I'm getting a great education!

 

[magoo2]

Scotty,

It's a developmental idea. There's a potential problem with energizing generator step up transformers for prolonged periods without the generator running. You build up static charge in the transformer windings with the pumps running at no load. I thought a simple mechanical sensor clamped to the GSU tank would be a simple way to detect that the transformer is energized.

For me, it's a 120 Hz sensor. For you, it's probably a 100 Hz sensor.

 

[magoo2]

I should have said vibration switch instead of sensor.

 

[BobM3]

Did you find a switch that is sensitive to just 120 hertz? If not, you may have to build a mechanical "filter" by mounting the switch on a cantilever and tuning to 120 hertz for the natural frequency.