Project Hub /Audio Displays & Interactive Media/LED Matrix & Cube Displays/IoT-Based Distribution Transformer Condition Monitoring System

Intermediate

ESP32

Project Specific

3 – 6 Hours

Partial Kit

IoT-Based Distribution Transformer Condition Monitoring System

This IoT-based distribution transformer condition monitoring system provides real-time tracking of transformer health, including temperature, load, and oil levels.

Originally published on ElectronicsForU

View original tutorial

Parts You'll Need

This project is sourced from another site, not written by us — this list is our best match of their components against what we stock, not a verified bill of materials. Always check the original blog (linked above) for the actual parts list before buying.

ESP32 WiFi+Bluetooth CP2102 Development Board Rs. 520.00
DHT11 Temperature and Humidity Sensor Module for Arduino Raspberry Pi Rs. 89.00
Ultrasonic Sensor Module HC-SR04 Rs. 89.00
Jumper Wire 10 Pin Male To Male 20cm Rs. 45.00
16×2 LCD Display with Pre-Soldered I2C Adapter Rs. 399.00
400 Points Mini Solderless Prototype PCB Breadboard High Quality Rs. 89.00
MB102 Adjustable Breadboard Power Supply Module (3.3V & 5V) for Arduino & Raspberry Pi Rs. 139.00
Jumper Wire 10 Pin Male To Female 20cm Rs. 45.00

Selected: Rs. 0.00

We don't carry yet: Temperature Sensor (generic)
Transformer
Current Sensor ACS712

Browse all components

How It Works

The IoT-Based Distribution Transformer Condition Monitoring System operates by continuously gathering environmental and electrical data from a transformer setup using an ESP32 microcontroller at its core. The DHT11 sensor monitors ambient temperature and humidity conditions surrounding the unit, while the ACS712 current sensor measures the electrical load passing through the system. Additionally, an HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor can be positioned to gauge internal parameters such as oil levels by measuring distance reflections. The ESP32 processes these incoming signals from the various sensors. Users have the option to view localized metrics instantly on a connected 16x2 LCD display module. Because the ESP32 features built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, it simultaneously transmits this telemetry data to the cloud via an Adafruit IO account, enabling remote monitoring over the internet. This continuous flow of sensor data allows operators to keep track of transformer health in real-time from anywhere.

Why Build This

Gain practical experience building real-world Internet of Things (IoT) applications using an ESP32 microcontroller and cloud dashboards.

Learn how to integrate multiple sensors—measuring current, temperature, and distance—into a single centralized monitoring circuit.

Understand how utility companies monitor critical electrical infrastructure remotely to prevent costly equipment failures.

Real-World Application

Optimising power distribution networks and enhancing operational reliability for utilities cost-effectively.

Skills You'll Learn

Microcontroller programming

Sensor interfacing

Analog-to-digital conversion

Cloud data logging

Wi-Fi connectivity integration

Display module interfacing

Safety Precautions

Flagged during content review — not in the original source

Exercise extreme caution when working near live transformers and high-voltage distribution lines, as incorrect handling of current sensors or exposed wiring can lead to severe electrical shock.

Technology Tags

ESP32

IOT

MQTT

ADAFRUIT IO

SENSORS

CURRENT SENSOR

TEMPERATURE SENSOR

ULTRASONIC SENSOR

LCD DISPLAY

ARDUINO IDE

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an Arduino Uno instead of an ESP32?

An Arduino Uno lacks built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, which are required to connect to Adafruit IO for the IoT functionality of this project. The ESP32 is specifically chosen for its integrated wireless features.

Is the 16x2 LCD display strictly required for the system to work?

No, the 16x2 LCD display module is optional. The system will still gather sensor data and upload it to your Adafruit IO dashboard without the physical screen attached.

How does the HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor measure oil levels?

The ultrasonic sensor emits high-frequency sound waves and measures the time it takes for the echo to bounce back, allowing the system to calculate the distance to the surface of the transformer oil.

Gallery

This page is part of Kitkraft's Project Hub — a curated collection of electronics & robotics projects gathered from the maker community to help students and hobbyists discover and learn to build. Kitkraft does not claim authorship of the original project, and makes no representation as to the accuracy, completeness or safety of third-party source material. The summary and "How It Works" explanation above are AI-generated, rewritten with reference to the original tutorial — not a reproduction of it. Full credit and a direct link to the original source are provided above. If you're the original creator and have a concern about how your work is represented here, please contact us and we'll address it promptly.

Kitkraft Project Hub — curated from the maker community, credited at the source.

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