Introduction

This project implements a three-phase power distribution monitoring system designed to detect line faults, environmental hazards, and temperature anomalies in power distribution infrastructure. The system monitors three independent transmission lines via optocoupler-based voltage detection, a gas/chemical sensor (MQ135) for detecting hazardous gases near distribution equipment, and a precision temperature sensor (MCP9808) for overheating detection. When faults are detected, the system automatically isolates the affected transmission line via relay control, sounds an alarm, and displays the fault information on the LCD. Manual override push buttons provide operator control for individual line isolation.

System Overview

Aim and Objectives

Aim:
Design and develop a 3-phase power distribution monitoring and fault protection system with automated line isolation and multi-sensor hazard detection.

Objectives:

• Monitor three independent power distribution lines for voltage presence and fault conditions.
• Detect hazardous gas leaks near distribution infrastructure using MQ135 gas sensor.
• Monitor equipment temperature with MCP9808 sensor for overheating protection (50°C threshold).
• Implement automatic relay-based line isolation for fault conditions.
• Provide manual override control via push buttons for individual line management.
• Display system status and fault information on a 20x4 LCD display.

Features & Deliverables

• 3-Phase Line Monitoring: Independent monitoring of three distribution lines via optocoupler-based voltage detection.
• Gas Hazard Detection: MQ135 sensor detects hazardous gases (SF6, chemical leaks) near distribution equipment.
• Temperature Protection: MCP9808 precision sensor monitors for overheating with configurable threshold.
• Automated Line Isolation: Three independent relays for automatic disconnection of faulted lines.
• Manual Override: Push-button controls for operator-initiated line isolation and restoration.
• Alarm System: Buzzer provides audible alarm for critical fault conditions.
• LCD Status Display: 20x4 LCD shows real-time status of all three lines, temperature, and gas levels.

Process / Methodology

Hardware Assembly

Components: Arduino, MCP9808, MQ135, 20x4 LCD (I2C), 3× Relay Modules, 3× Optocouplers, 3× Push Buttons, Buzzer, LED Indicators, Power Supply.

• Configured optocoupler circuits for safe voltage detection on each of the three distribution lines.
• Connected relay modules for independent control of each transmission line.
• Integrated MQ135 gas sensor for environmental hazard monitoring.

Software Development

• Developed firmware in Arduino IDE for multi-line monitoring and fault detection.
• Implemented fault detection logic with configurable thresholds for gas and temperature.
• Programmed push-button interrupt handling for manual line isolation control.
• Created LCD display routines for comprehensive 3-phase system status visualization.

Testing & Calibration

• Tested line fault detection by simulating individual phase failures.
• Validated gas sensor response to various gas concentration levels.
• Verified relay isolation response time under simulated fault conditions.

Challenges & Solutions

• Challenge: Safe voltage detection from high-voltage distribution lines.
  Solution: Used optocoupler-based isolation circuits for galvanic separation between high-voltage lines and the microcontroller.
• Challenge: MQ135 sensor calibration for accurate gas detection in outdoor environments.
  Solution: Implemented warm-up period and baseline calibration with adjustable sensitivity thresholds.
• Challenge: Coordinating automatic and manual control without conflicts.
  Solution: Implemented priority logic where manual override takes precedence over automatic actions.

Results & Impact

• Fault Detection: Successfully detected and isolated individual line faults within milliseconds.
• Hazard Detection: Gas sensor reliably detected elevated gas concentrations near distribution equipment.
• Operator Control: Manual override provided safe and intuitive control for maintenance operations.
• Protection: Temperature monitoring prevented equipment damage from overheating scenarios.

Future Enhancements

• Add WiFi/GSM connectivity for remote monitoring and alert notifications.
• Implement current transformer (CT) sensors for per-phase current monitoring.
• Develop cloud dashboard for historical fault analysis and trend reporting.
• Add power quality analysis (harmonics, power factor) for comprehensive monitoring.

Demonstration / Access

• GitHub Repository: Coming soon
• Live Demonstration Video: Coming soon

Thank You for Visiting My Portfolio

I sincerely appreciate you taking the time to explore my portfolio and learn about my work and expertise. If you have any questions or wish to discuss potential collaborations, please feel free to reach out via the Contact section.

Best regards,
Damilare Lekan, Adekeye.