High-Voltage Transmission Line Monitoring System - Electrical Engineering Guide
1. Introduction
Monitoring high-voltage transmission lines is crucial for ensuring stable power delivery and early fault detection. This guide details the design and implementation of a real-time monitoring system for high-voltage lines.
2. Project Objectives
• Monitor temperature, current, and voltage of transmission
lines
• Detect faults or anomalies in real time
• Enable wireless data communication to a central server
• Improve reliability and safety of the power grid
3. System Overview
The system involves sensors installed on transmission lines that continuously monitor parameters and send the data wirelessly to a monitoring center.
4. Technical Specifications
• Voltage Range: Up to 400 kV
• Communication: LoRa, GSM, or Zigbee
• Data Rate: Configurable (10s to 1min interval)
• Temperature Accuracy: ±1°C
• Current Sensor: Non-invasive CT sensors
5. Components Required
• Microcontroller (e.g., Arduino, STM32)
• Voltage, current, and temperature sensors
• GSM/LoRa module for communication
• Battery with solar charging unit
• Isolation and protection circuits
• Data logger (optional)
6. System Design and Architecture
Sensors interface with the microcontroller to collect data. The microcontroller processes and sends the information via a wireless module. Power is supplied by a solar panel with a battery backup.
7. Sensor Integration and Placement
Sensors must be securely attached to conductors or towers, ensuring accurate readings and avoiding interference from external sources.
8. Communication Technologies
LoRa provides long-range, low-power data transmission. GSM is suitable for areas with network coverage. Data packets are sent to a central server for monitoring.
9. Data Acquisition and Processing
The microcontroller samples analog and digital inputs from sensors, converts them using ADCs, and processes the data for trends or anomalies.
10. Fault Detection and Alert System
Threshold-based algorithms detect sudden changes in current or temperature. Alerts are sent via SMS or cloud services for maintenance action.
11. Power Supply Design
The system is powered using solar panels with a battery storage system. Energy-efficient components are used to ensure continuous operation.
12. Testing and Calibration
Calibration is done using standard loads and known temperature sources. Sensor readings are validated and corrected for environmental effects.
13. Applications and Benefits
• Continuous line health monitoring
• Early fault detection and prevention
• Enhanced grid reliability
• Reduced maintenance costs
14. Conclusion
This system significantly enhances the safety and reliability of high-voltage power transmission by enabling real-time monitoring and early intervention.