Design and construction of a protection system for three phase loads against single phasing and over heating.
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Date
2026-08
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Busitema University
Abstract
Industrial manufacturing plants rely heavily on three-phase induction motors to drive critical processes such as pumping, conveying, refrigeration, and packaging. At Elgon bottling company Limited, continuous production operations depend on the reliable performance of these motors. However, recurring motor failures attributed to single phasing and overheating have resulted in production downtime, increased maintenance costs, and reduced equipment lifespan. Single phasing occurs when one of the three supply phases is lost while the motor continues operating, causing excessive current in the remaining phases, torque imbalance, and rapid thermal build-up. If not detected promptly, this condition leads to insulation degradation and eventual motor burnout. Overheating, whether caused by electrical imbalance, overload, or poor ventilation, further accelerates insulation aging and increases the risk of catastrophic failure. This project presents the design and construction of a microcontroller-based monitoring and protection system aimed at preventing such failures. The proposed system continuously monitors phase voltages and motor temperature using appropriate sensing circuits. The measured parameters are processed by a programmable controller that implements fault detection algorithms capable of identifying phase loss, current imbalance, and excessive temperature rise. Upon detection of abnormal conditions, the system automatically disconnects the affected motor through a contactor control mechanism while providing real-time status indication via a display and alert system. The methodology includes system design, hardware construction, software development, and experimental validation under simulated fault conditions. The expected outcome is a cost-effective, reliable, and intelligent protection system suitable for industrial environments such as Elgon bottling company Limited. The implementation of this system is anticipated to reduce motor failure rates, minimize production downtime, enhance safety, and improve overall operational efficiency.
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Undergraduate project report
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Citation
Wanasolo, H. & Washibuku, M. (2026). Design and construction of a protection system for three phase loads against single phasing and over heating. [Unpublished undergraduate project report]. Busitema University.