Efficient Multi-Sound Source Localization Algorithm for Transformer Faults Based on Polyphase Filters

Power transformers play a critical role in power systems, and the early detection of their faults and defects, accounting for over 30%, can be achieved through abnormal sound analysis. Sound source localization based on microphone arrays has proven effective in focusing on the troubleshooting scope, preventing potential severe hazards caused by delays in fault removal, and significantly reducing operational and maintenance difficulties and costs. However, existing microphone array-based sound source localization algorithms face challenges in maintaining both accuracy and simplicity and especially suffer from a sharp decrease in performance when dealing with multiple sound sources. This paper presents a multi-sound source localization algorithm for transformer faults based on polyphase filters, integrating the sum-difference monopulse angle measurement technique into the microphone array. Firstly, the signals received from the transformers are divided into multiple subbands using polyphase filters, allowing for multi-source separation and reducing the sampling rate of each subband. Next, the time-domain signals in subbands subject to noise suppression are processed into sum and difference beams. The resulting beam outputs are transformed into frequency-domain signals using the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT), effectively enhancing the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for separate sound sources. Finally, each subband undergoes sum-difference monopulse angle measurement in the frequency domain to achieve the high-precision localization of specific faults. The proposed algorithm has been demonstrated to be effective in achieving higher localization accuracy and reducing computational complexity in the presence of actual amplitude-phase errors in microphone arrays. These advantages can facilitate its practical applications. By enabling early targeting of fault sources when abnormalities occur, this algorithm provides valuable assistance to operation and maintenance personnel, thereby enhancing the maintenance efficiency of transformers.