This project involves building a model of an auto-sectionalizing transmission line to demonstrate fault isolation techniques to students. It uses an Arduino, current sensors, and 12 relays to simulate a 208V 3-phase transmission line with 3 buses arranged in a T-shape. When the current sensors detect a ground fault on a bus, the Arduino will open and close the relays to isolate the fault and protect the load. The goals are to create a functioning model that can simulate real-world faults and be interfaced safely in the classroom. It is hoped that exposing students to this technology will benefit their engineering education and skills.

1. Auto-Sectionalizing Transmission Line Model
Abstract & Introduction
• Due to increased demand in the amount, quality, and reliability of
power transmission, various technologies have been developed to
allow continuously decreasing response times to network faults. Of
such technologies, SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data
Acquisition) controlled auto-sectionalizing schemes are one of the
most advantageous systems employed by transmission line
operation firms within the modern electrical grid. As the
university's engineering department has a minimal presence of
demonstrations and exercises related to power engineering, the
team believes this to be a great opportunity to provide such an
experience to current and future engineering students.
Electronics Technology
Technology Overview
Project Conclusions
Selected Design – Project Circuitry
Selected Design – Project Housing
Contributors
Outline of Objectives
Abstract
Device Chosen Solution
Microcontroller Arduino Uno Rev 3.0
Current Sensors (2) Allegro ACS 712ELCTR-20A-T
Relay Modules (12) Songle SRD-05VDC-SL-C
Power supply (5V) Triad Magnetics WSU050-1500
4 Channel Relay Module LITEON 817C Optocoupler
Introduction
• The auto-sectionalizing model is a triple bus system in a ‘T’
formation with a central interconnection serving as a model
switchyard. It possesses a 208V, three phase circuit design that
employ twelve relays, two current sensors, and one relay array.
The devices work in tandem to act as a model transmission line
auto-sectionalizing device. System behavior is dictated by a
microcontroller which opens and closes the relay arrays depending
upon the input provided by the two sensors.
*Special thanks to Benjamin Ballantyne for his invaluable support
with the model’s housing.
Andrew Ballantyne
Electrical Engineering
John Vandoloski
Electrical Engineering
Advisor: Dr. Carlos Lück
• The team researched all necessary standards relating to
the project including SCADA technologies, Customer
Average Interruption Duration Index (CAIDI). Current
circuit diagrams and engineering drawings were used to
reflect changes throughout project development.
Engineering Processes
• The footprint of the design is composed of three steel structures
representing two tower structures and one central switchyard. The
two outer buses are square arches with the aforementioned base
feet and are designed to replicate the (predominantly) metallic
structures used in the field when transmission lines approach
switchyards.
• The third structure is a simple rectangular frame which acts as
the central connection point (switchyard) and is consequently the
connection point of the third bus. As a result, the overall footprint
of the device possess the shape of a 'T' with the third bus along the
stem and the outer two buses along the letter’s top.
1. Be a functioning model of the auto-sectionalizing schemes seen in
the field
a. Operate at 208V, 3Φ
b. Possess 3 total buses
c. Simulate a transmission line fault
2. Use an Arduino controlled system modeled after SCADA controls
a. Use relays in conjunction with current sensors
b. Employ a breaker system for the two ‘branching busses’
c. Provide visual feedback of the device’s functioning in real time
d. Use Analog-to-Digital Conversion (ADC) for Arduino I/O
3. Be able to interface easily with the Hampden and peripherals
a. Not pose any risk to the student, faculty, or facility
b. Carry less than 10A throughout any point in the circuit
c. Be durable and constructed to last for an extended period of time
d. Be enclosed within transparent Plexiglas
Project Management
Community Synergy
• A total of twelve relays control the power flow through the
model’s buses. Their behavior is dictated by an Arduino
microcontroller which has been programmed to use analog input
from current sensors located on the center phase of each flanking
bus to measured current magnitude at any given moment in time.
• Three phase to ground faults exist which the device is able to
isolate to protect a connected load. Each bus is capable of
experiencing the ground fault via the three switches located on the
face of the model’s housing. Three, 4Ω power resistors limit the
fault current to a maximum of 10A and are located along the back
of the model.
• Both members completed internships with
the state's largest power transmission firm and
suggest the project exemplifies positive
outcomes of alliances between the university,
local firms in need of quality engineers, and
the general populace.
• Skills in delegation of individual responsibilities and
schedule management were required to create a positive
workflow with the aid of a Gantt chart. Budgetary
management was exercised as a result of imposed
financial constraints.