Automated Real-Time Transformer Health Monitoring System Using the Internet of Things (IoT)

Abstract

The transformer is one of the most essential components in a power system, and its failure may result in significant interruptions in the power transmission system. Thus, it is necessary to continuously monitor the transformer’s health to prevent possible damage due to sudden voltage sags, swells, or overloading, causing heating of the windings and insulations. The transformer health is monitored primarily by tracking the voltage, current and temperature of the windings. However, in the existing model, an engineer must be on-site to examine the values of the parameters and act on the same. This is not feasible as there is enormous scope for human errors if the engineer is absent on-site. To overcome the flaws mentioned above, a system uses the Internet of things (IoT) to send real-time data from the transformer to a data center, where the engineer can track the performance and health of the transformer. The engineer is required on-site only in case of emergencies; however, the system alerts the engineer using a GSM module via SMS on any violation of limits. Further, automation is introduced to the transformer cooling mechanism, where the working capacity of the cooler is controlled by a feedback system supported by a microcontroller, hence reducing human dependence by a large margin. Results from experiments and simulations performed are analyzed to predict the performance of the automated IoT-based transformers and compared with the existing model, and the practical hurdles in implementing the same are discussed.