Design of an efficient neural network model for detection and classification of phase loss faults for three-phase induction motor

Abstract

In industrial applications, three-phase induction motors (IMs) are widely used, and they are subjected to many types of faults. One such fault is the loss of a motor phase caused by a blown fuse, a broken wire, mechanical damage, etc. When this fault occurs during motor operation, it continues to rotate but experiences rapid heating, which can ultimately lead to motor failure. Therefore, various protection devices are available to protect the motor against this fault, but most traditional protection devices do not offer a comprehensive classification of such a fault. So, in this paper, an efficient neural network model is presented for detecting and classifying 12 types of phase loss faults for a three-phase induction motor (IM) based on factors such as the unhealthy phase, fault location, and motor action modes (standstill, transient, and steady-state modes). Thus, the main goal of this work is to determine the motor mode during the fault, the defective phase, and its location to help the maintenance team repair the fault quickly. The system is simulated and tested using the “MATLAB/Simulink” software, employing a feed-forward neural network. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed network achieves correct detection and classification of phase loss faults within a short time frame from the occurrence of the fault. Therefore, the proposed network model proves to be a simple and reliable solution for integration into the protection system of a three-phase IM, enabling the detection and classification of various phase loss faults.