Detection of Power Grid Failures Caused by Multiple Faults Through Modelling and Simulation

A power grid is a network of electrical transmission lines connecting a multiplicity of generating stations to load over a wide area. It supplies the electrical power from generating unit to the distribution unit through a huge network of transmission and distribution lines. There are several power generation units connected to the grid such as hydro, thermal, solar, wind, etc. to supply power to the load. In India, the generating units have to deliver power according to the Indian Electricity Grid Code, 2010 which states that the variation in voltage should be within the limit of ±5 % and that for frequency should be within ±3%. If any deviation from the acceptable limit of the grid, it is mandatory that the same feeder should automatically get disconnected form the grid which by effect is termed as islanding. Thus, synchronization is needed between the grid and feeder unit, so as to avoid blackout of the grid power. In this paper, we are introducing a system which can notify the grid on occurrence of fault so that alternate arrangements are kept on standby to avoid complete grid failure. This system is based on Arduino Mega microcontroller. The voltage comparator method is used to monitor the under/over voltage by microcontroller. As mains frequency cannot be changed the IC555 timer method is used to change the frequency. A lamp load is used for overload detection of the blackout case. Further, the MATLAB Simulink software is used to detect the faults and these faults are monitored by using internet of things. The variation of system voltage should be around 5% and that for frequency should be around 3%. The blackouts can be prevented by maintaining load generation balance. The system is effective in detecting the faults which is crucial for maintaining the reliability, safety, and economic stability of the power grid.