Reduction in Noise and Vibration in Ultra-High-Voltage Shunt Reactors Using Structural Optimization and Damping Techniques

This paper presents an effective approach to reducing noise and vibration levels in ultra-high-voltage (UHV) shunt reactors based on structural optimization and damping techniques. The main sources of vibration are associated with magnetostriction of electrical steel and electromagnetic forces in the magnetic system, which induce structural excitation of the reactor tank. A combined numerical and experimental methodology is employed, including finite element modeling (FEM) of the reactor tank and field measurements of vibration displacement and acoustic noise. In contrast to previous studies focused primarily on material properties, this work emphasizes the role of structural modifications in controlling vibration transmission. The proposed solutions include the use of nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) damping elements, optimization of the magnetic system geometry, and reinforcement of the tank structure using vertical and horizontal stiffeners. The FEM analysis in the frequency range of 50–150 Hz shows that the maximum displacement amplitude reaches 16.2 μm at the tank bottom and 10.5 μm at the tank walls. Experimental results confirm a reduction in vibration levels to 13 μm and a sound power level of 88 dBA, which meets regulatory requirements. The proposed approach improves the vibroacoustic performance and operational reliability of UHV reactors and can be effectively applied in the design of modern high-voltage power equipment.