2024 4th International Conference on Advancement in Electronics & Communication Engineering (AECE)

Internet of Things Based System for Health

Monitoring for Distribution Transformer
2024 4th International Conference on Advancement in Electronics & Communication Engineering (AECE) | 979-8-3503-6472-9/24/$31.00 ©2024 Crown | DOI: 10.1109/AECE62803.2024.10911075

Dr. B. Arun Kumar Angel Swastik Duggal Dr. Arshi Naim

School of Electronics and Electrical School of Electronics and Electrical Department of Business Management,
Engineering, Lovely Professional Engineering, Lovely Professional AlSamer, University campus, King Khalid
University, Phagwara, Punjab, India University, Phagwara, Punjab, India University, Aseer, Abha, KSA
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Dr. Mohammad Rashid Hussain Dr. Mohammad Nadeem Ahmed Dr. Muhammad Shahid Dildar
Department of Business Informatics, Department of Computer Science, College Department of Business Informatics,
College of Business, of Computer Science, College of Business,
King Khalid University, KSA King Khalid University, KSA King Khalid University, KSA
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Abstract—Electricity distribution from substations to technologies. The Internet of Things (IoT) is a cutting-edge,
residences and businesses depends on distributed transformers. newly developed information-based technology with
However, a number of things, including overload, overheating, tremendous development potential for the intelligent
and outside elements like moisture and dust, can harm them. transformation of the electrical system [7–10]. A real-time
For distributed transformers to remain operational and prevent information logger was developed as a result of research that
damage, health monitoring is crucial. Using sensors to assess tracks a transformer's performance in relation to load. It also
vital variables like voltage, current, temperature, and humidity aids in detecting a transformer's deteriorating state before it
is one approach to keep an eye on the condition of distributed
has a significant impact on the system as a whole.
transformers. To find any possible issues, the data from these
sensors can be gathered and analysed. If an issue is found, it can II. REVIEW OF LITERATURE
be fixed before the transformer is harmed. A system employing
Node MCU and Arduino was suggested in a study for the health In order to prevent failures, the article examines IoT-based
monitoring of distributed transformers. An open-source approaches for monitoring and controlling electrical variables
platform called Node MCU makes use of the ESP8266 in transformers. It informs a device to any anomalies by
microcontroller. Interactive projects are developed on the open- sensors and GSM-GPRS communication [11]. A study
source Arduino electronics platform. The suggested system suggested using smart metre data for monitoring the condition
gathers data from the sensors and transmits it to an Arduino of distribution transformers in order to predict remaining
using a Node MCU. The data is subsequently transmitted from usable life, increase dependability, and reduce maintenance
the Arduino via the internet to a cloud server. The data can be costs [12]. A research developed a transformer temperature
stored on the cloud server, which can also analyse it to find any and current tracking system using an Atmega16
potential issues. An alert can be provided to the user if a microprocessor and a wireless sensor network [13].
problem is found. This technology offers a simple and affordable
solution to keep track of the condition of distributed An IoT-based wireless sensor network for smart grid
transformers. It can aid in avoiding damage and ensuring the power quality monitoring was proposed in a study as a
ongoing functionality of these crucial devices. framework for improving the effectiveness and dependability
of the system [14]. In order to increase the dependability and
Keywords—Transformer, Sustainability, Node MCU, Current efficiency of distribution assistance transformers, a real-time
sensors. grid energy monitor has been recommended for online health
evaluation of distribution service transformers [15]. IoT-based
I.
INTRODUCTION power tracking systems for smart grids improve the accuracy
The distribution transformer is the most important and durability of power tracking [16].
component for voltage transformation in the power grid. It is
used to convert high voltage to low voltage, which can be used III. HARDWARE DEVELOPMENT
in residences or commercial buildings [1]. Numerous factors, This presents a full presentation of the planned system as
like as overloading, oil leaks, unbalanced harmonics, and well as the system's hardware development. Here, we've
loading, can hasten the deterioration and failure of distribution covered a variety of the system's parts in detail.
transformers [2]. The majority of power transformer problems
are caused by a buildup of electrical, mechanical, and thermal voltage detector A voltage sensor, which is used to
pressures that are placed on the parts over time [3]. The measure voltage levels at particular places in a circuit, is a
Infrared Emission Testing methodology is used in the crucial part of electrical systems [17]. Its main function is to
conventional way of transformer health monitoring to continually measure the voltage, or electrical potential
measure the transformer's external temperature [4]. difference, that exists between two specified places. The
Temperature, voltage, and current are just a few examples of voltage sensor then converts this measurement into an output
the variables that might cause an excessive amount of heat in signal, which can take the form of a digital signal or an
a transformer. This technique can identify issues with analogue representation (a continuous voltage level) [18-20].
electrical connections and cooling system obstructions [5- 6]. This output is a crucial instrument for assuring the stability
Through internet connectivity, any physical object may now and safety of electrical systems since it acts as a real-time
be monitored and controlled wirelessly and in real-time [6] voltage level indicator. In power distribution networks,
thanks to recent advances in sensors and wireless renewable energy systems, and industrial automation, voltage

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 2024 4th International Conference on Advancement in Electronics & Communication Engineering (AECE)

sensors are widely used to monitor voltage variations and 1. Join the GND and +5V pins of the power source to
avert overvoltage or undervoltage situations. the + GND and +5V pins of the NodeMCU and Arduino
LilyPad.
Current Sensor: A current sensor plays a critical function
in electrical systems by monitoring the flow of current, also 2. The LCD's pins 1 and 2 are linked to the GND and
known as electric charge, via a circuit. Current sensors Vcc, respectively.
produce an output signal that corresponds to the level of
current in the circuit, much like voltage sensors do. An
analogue signal or a digital image can be used as this output.
For many applications, notably in industrial settings and
power distribution networks, current sensors are essential.
Continuously monitor of the current flowing in machinery and
equipment, is to make sure that they operate safely and
effectively [21-23]. Additionally, if there is overcurrent or
overloading issue conditions detected, which indicate the
defects or overload problems to the administration to make
sure to take needing immediate care, and this safety provided
in this system while using current sensors.
Temperature Sensor: Temperature sensors are specialized
system that is specially designed to monitor the temperatures
of their immediate environment or of certain objects where is
has been placed. The main works is to monitor the temperature
Fig. 2. Circuit Diagram
variations and convert that to an appropriate output signal.
Temperature sensors produces the discrete temperature data in 3. Attach pins 2 and 15 of the LCD to the +5V.
digital formats or analogue outputs like voltage or resistance
changes depend on what type of the sensor we are using. 4. The variable end of the 10K POT is connected to
These sensors are useful in a wide range of fields and LCD pin 3 while the fixed end is connected to the power
applications. For instance, they are used in consumer supply's GND and +5V.
electronics, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning)
5. The LCD pins 4 (RS), 5 (RW), and 6 (E) are
systems, industrial operations, and environmental monitoring.
connected to the Arduino LilyPad pins 13, GND, and 12.
Temperature sensors are especially important in your system's
environment when dealing with procedures that involve 6. LCD pins 11, 12, 13, and 14 (D4) are connected to
heating or cooling. They make it easier to maintain the proper Arduino LilyPad pins 11, 10, 9, and 8.
temperatures, ensuring that the system runs effectively and
safely. 7. Attach the AC voltage sensor's GND, +Vcc, and
OUT pins to the GND, +5V, and A0 pins of the Arduino
Liquid Crystal LilyPad.
Display
8. Join the +5V, GND, and A1 pins of the Arduino
LilyPad to the GND, +Vcc, and OUT pins of the AC current
Voltage Arduino NodeMCU/ sensor.
sensor Lilypad Wi-Fi modem
9. The DS1820 sensor's GND, +Vcc, and OUT pins are
Current connected to the +5V, GND, and pin7 of the Arduino LilyPad.
sensor
10. The RX pin of the NodeMCU is linked to the TX pin
12V/1A power (1) of the Arduino LilyPad.
DS1820 supply
IV. WORKING OF SYSTEM
Fig. 1. Block diagram The proposed system's operation is described in this part,
which also addresses the connection of two separate boards:
The Arduino LilyPad, NodeMCU, and their associated
1. Attach the voltage and current sensors to the
external devices, such as the LCD, DS1820 sensor as a digital
analogue pins on the Arduino Lilypad.
sensor, voltage sensor, and current sensor as an analogue
sensor, are shown in block diagram form in Fig. 1. It is made 2. Attach the moisture sensor to one of the digital pins
up of a +12V/500mA power supply, an Arduino LilyPad on the Arduino Lilypad.
NodeMCU, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a DS1820 digital
sensor, and a voltage and current sensor acting as analogue 3. To connect the NodeMCU and the Arduino Lilypad,
sensors. The primary goal of the system demonstration is data use serial communication.
presentation on LCD using DS1820 as digital sensor and 4. Write the code necessary to communicate sensor data
voltage and current sensors as analogue sensors. The Arduino from the Arduino Lilypad to the NodeMCU.
LilyPad samples, records, and transmits serial data from
sensors to the NodeMCU. The sensory data packet was sent to 5. Join the local Wi-Fi network using the NodeMCU.
the cloud utilising a Wi-Fi link by NodeMCU/Wi-Fi modem. 6. Create code that will allow sensors to submit data
The interface connectors for the Arduino LilyPad, NodeMCU, over Wi-Fi to the ThingSpeak cloud server.
and external devices are displayed in Fig. 2.

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 2024 4th International Conference on Advancement in Electronics & Communication Engineering (AECE)

7. Set up the sensor data collection and archiving visualizations give users the ability to analyze trends over
settings in the ThingSpeak channel. time, continuously monitor these vital indicators, and spot any
anomalies or departures from normal operating procedures.
8. Track sensor data via the ThingSpeak API or the Making educated judgements about the maintenance and use
cloud server. of the distribution transformer requires such data presentation.
9. To alert the maintenance team of any irregularities in
the transformer health indicators, install an automatic alarm
system.
10. Evaluate the system's effectiveness in identifying
transformer health problems and making maintenance
decisions in light of the information gathered.
V. RESULTS
Two essential pieces of hardware—the Arduino Lilypad
and NodeMCU—are used in the proposed Internet of Things-
based distribution transformer health monitoring system.
Together, these parts gather crucial information from the
transformer and send it to the ThingSpeak cloud server. The
NodeMCU open-source IoT platform is based on the
ESP8266 WiFi module, while the Arduino Lilypad is a
microcontroller board particularly intended for wearable and Fig. 3. Supply voltage on server
e-textile applications. These elements work together to create
the system's framework. This system's main job is to gather
distribution transformer health metrics in real time. Important
variables including current, real power, voltage, apparent
power, and power factor (PF) are all included in these
measures.
Real and apparent power readings reveal the transformer's
active and reactive power consumption, while current and
voltage measurements reveal the electrical load and
efficiency. The transformer's ability to transfer electrical
power into usable work is indicated by its power factor. These
measurements are necessary for assessing the transformer's
general condition and performance. The ThingSpeak cloud
server is here used to visualize the data in to the visual form
that display the real time data from the machine to system's
Fig. 4. supply current on server
data handling and visualisation point. An IoT platform called
ThingSpeak makes it easier by storing and analysing the
sensor data in the server memory. We can say this served here
in this system like central repository in this situation for the
transformer health indicators and pushed by the our
monitoring device. The server provides a UI for the user that
makes data visualisation and analysis possible with the help of
predefined algorithm indie the server, making it simple to
monitor the health of the transformer in real-time even while
we are not present at that place. The collected data can be seen
in to different format like chart, line, gauge etc, as an
understandable visual style so that user can easily get the
notification and update in the cloud server web dashboard.
The user can see all the real time data with the help fo
graphical representations, such as graphs and charts in the
thingspoeak cloud server dashboard by logging in to the Fig. 5. Real power on server
authorized account which provide a concise and
understandable live data of the health data for the transformer All things considered, the graphs kept on the ThingSpeak
and we can also download that data in the CSV format. cloud server are a helpful tool for tracking and studying
Through a web-based interface, authorized administrator, transformer health data. The system is a fantastic option for
engineers, maintenance staff, and operators can access these utility companies and businesses that depend on transformers
graphical representations and data, a quickly and easily for their operations because of its precision, dependability,
evaluate the condition and performance of the transformer. As and user-friendliness. The proposed IoT-based distribution
previously noted, Figure 3-7 shows a screenshot of the transformer health monitoring system, powered by Arduino
information shown on the ThingSpeak server. This graph Lilypad and NodeMCU, makes use of contemporary
probably displays current, supply voltage, apparent power, technology to gather, transmit, and visualise critical health
true power, and power factor real-time data points. These information. A user-friendly platform for real-time

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 2024 4th International Conference on Advancement in Electronics & Communication Engineering (AECE)

monitoring and analysis is made available by using the The maintenance crew receives this alarm and can then
ThingSpeak cloud server, thereby improving the effectiveness take immediate action to resolve the problem. The electricity
and dependability of distribution transformers. By proactively distribution network's overall reliability and safety are
managing transformers, quickly identifying possible improved by this real-time alerting system. Utility firms and
difficulties, and optimizing their performance, this technology other businesses that largely rely on transformers for their
helps operators and maintenance teams to improve the operations may find this IoT-based technology to be
reliability and efficiency of power distribution networks. especially useful. For the purpose of guaranteeing a reliable
and constant supply of electricity, transformers are
indispensable. Any malfunction or failure could lead to
expensive downtime and business interruptions. These
companies may reduce the risk of unexpected failures and
increase operational efficiency by proactively managing and
maintaining their transformers by implementing this cutting-
edge monitoring technology.
Real-time monitoring is one of this system's most notable
features. It gives operators the ability to spot potential
problems as they appear, enabling maintenance teams to react
quickly and effectively to difficulties. This proactive strategy
ultimately improves the overall reliability of the power
distribution network by preventing more serious damage or
even transformer failure. In conclusion, the suggested IoT-
based distribution transformer health monitoring system is not
Fig. 6. Apparent power on server only effective but also affordable when compared to
conventional monitoring techniques. Real-time insights and
alarms are provided, and manual data collecting is no longer
necessary. In addition, its user-friendly layout makes it
available to a variety of users, including engineers and
maintenance staff.
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