Description
⚙️ Project Overview
The 3-Phase Fault Detection and Indicator Project is an intelligent protection system designed to monitor and detect faults in 3-phase electrical lines.
When a fault such as Line-to-Line (LL) or Line-to-Ground (LG) occurs, the circuit instantly identifies the fault type, isolates the affected line, and displays the fault on a 7-segment display.
This system provides students with hands-on experience in fault identification, power system protection, and circuit isolation concepts — key elements in modern industrial automation and power distribution systems.
⚡ Working Principle
The system monitors each phase of a 3-phase supply using sensing circuits connected through resistors and relay units.
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Normal Condition:
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All three phases (R, Y, B) are active and the output display shows a “Normal” condition.
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Line-to-Line (LL) Fault Detection:
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When two phases (e.g., R-Y or Y-B) short due to insulation failure or accidental connection, the circuit detects overvoltage/current changes.
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A Timer IC (555-based delay circuit) processes the fault and displays “LL” on the 7-segment display.
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A relay simultaneously isolates the affected line.
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Line-to-Ground (LG) Fault Detection:
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When one phase contacts the ground, leakage current is detected.
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The Timer IC triggers a signal to display “LG” on the 7-segment indicator and disconnect the faulted line.
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Fault Indication and Reset:
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LED indicators and relays identify the faulted line (R, Y, or B).
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A manual reset switch restores the circuit to normal operation once the fault is cleared.
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This simulation demonstrates how real-world transmission and distribution networks identify and isolate faults to protect connected equipment.
🔩 Key Features
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Detects both Line-to-Line (LL) and Line-to-Ground (LG) faults.
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Uses Timer IC (NE555) for delay-based detection and control.
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7-Segment Display shows real-time fault indication.
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LED fault indicators highlight affected phases (R, Y, B).
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Relay system provides line isolation during fault conditions.
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Compact design ideal for lab demonstrations and exhibitions.
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Fully assembled and tested kit with clear working explanation.
🧰 Technical Specifications
Parameter | Specification |
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Supply Voltage | 230V AC (Stepped down to 12V DC for circuit) |
Controller Type | Timer IC (NE555) |
Display Type | Dual 7-Segment LED Display |
Fault Types Detected | Line-to-Line (LL), Line-to-Ground (LG) |
Relay Type | 12V DC, SPDT Electromechanical Relay |
Indicators | LEDs for each phase (R, Y, B) |
Protection Type | Automatic relay cutoff on fault detection |
PCB Type | Multi-board assembly with relays and display interface |
Output Display | Fault Type Displayed: LL / LG |
Power Consumption | <10W |
Additional Circuits | Transformer, Rectifier, Voltage Regulator |
🎓 Educational Outcomes
Students will learn:
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Real-time 3-phase fault detection and protection techniques.
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Operation of Timer ICs in sequential fault timing applications.
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Relay operation and isolation mechanisms in electrical protection systems.
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7-segment display interfacing and logic indication design.
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Power system safety and automation fundamentals.
This project provides practical exposure to power electronics, control systems, and electrical safety concepts vital for EV charging, transmission, and industrial automation systems.
💡 Applications
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Industrial and domestic 3-phase distribution fault protection.
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Substation monitoring and automatic isolation.
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Power transmission training and educational models.
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Electrical protection system design experiments.
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Smart grid safety demonstrations.
🧩 Advantages
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Protects equipment from short circuits and electrical damage.
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Identifies fault type and affected line accurately.
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Simple, low-cost, and reliable system.
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Easy fault indication with visual and digital display.
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Ideal for academic demonstrations and industrial simulations.
📦 Package Includes
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Fault Detection Main PCB with Timer ICs
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Relay and LED Indication Board
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Dual 7-Segment Display Board
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Power Transformer and Regulator Board
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Pre-wired connectors and test terminals
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Documentation (Word + PDF)
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Circuit and Block Diagram Images
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User Manual and Demonstration Guide