FAULT INDICATOR SYSTEM FOR A TRANSFORMER

We came to know that there are approximately 3 transformer failures on regular basis, due to reasons like over-voltage, overload-current, etc. This knowledge motivates us for this project with an initial thought of developing a transformer monitoring and protection system.

Transformer automation, in which automation is combination of measuring, controlling of various parameters namely voltage, temperature, current and humming level measurement and also protection of transformer. During the training period, we studied basics of transformer and use of GSM module in relation to our project. Firstly, we selected a controller i.e. PIC16F887 by comparing it with various other controllers like ATMEL, AVR, ARM and processor like Raspberry Pi, Beagle-board by comparing its project cost and its advantages over other controllers and processors.

First, we developed a program for measuring voltage and temperature and we interfaced the program in PIC16F887. We tested different changes in our program like over- voltage, over- current and humming level and temperature measurement. First we studied the data sheet of ACS712 i.e. current sensor and also the working of ACS712. Now, we measure DC current by connecting different loads and analyze the changes in the circuit. Finally, we merged all sensors and one by one and observed the output on computer using UART protocol.

Now, our task is to constantly monitor parameters of transformer which is in remote destination and check for any fault and report it to the observatory authority. For that, we choose the option of sending SMS. For SMS, we sent parameters using AT commands.

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