Arduino-Enabled Detection of Faults in Power Transmission Lines

Abstract

The increasing demand for reliable and uninterrupted power delivery has intensified the need for intelligent fault detection in electrical transmission networks. Transmission lines are highly susceptible to faults, which account for nearly 85 to 87 percent of power system disturbances, leading to equipment damage and extended outages. This paper presents a compact and cost-effective Arduino-based system for real-time transmission line fault detection and location identification. The proposed design employs sensors to monitor line voltage and current, enabling the detection of over-voltage, open-circuit, short-circuit, and fire-related faults. A regulated power supply ensures system stability, while the Arduino Nano microcontroller processes the sensor data and controls protective relays to isolate faulty sections. The system integrates an LCD display and a buzzer for on-site fault indication and uses a GSM module to transmit alerts to a remote-control center via text message. Experimental implementation demonstrates high accuracy, low latency, and operational simplicity, making the system suitable for modern power distribution and monitoring applications. This approach provides an efficient, scalable, and low-cost solution for improving the safety and reliability of electrical transmission infrastructure.