May 262023
 

Power failure alarm using transformer and relay

This main power failure alarm circuit is very simple and is very useful. It can be used with electric ovens, a refrigeration system or to prevent a thief from cutting off the electrical power, because it immediately warns of the problem. It also serves you to warn us when the fuses have blown.


You can connect any kind of device, at the output of the circuit (relay) to call attention, such as a light, a siren or both. See the diagram below.

Power Failure Alarm Operation

The primary winding of the 120/240 to 12 VAC transformer (T) is connected to the power lines, The transformer secondary sine wave voltage is half-wave rectified by the diode (D) and then flattened by means of an electrolytic capacitor (C).

The result is a pulsating voltage of approximately 18 VDC. This voltage constantly feed the relay and keep it active.

Main Power failure alarm using transformer and relay

Main Power Failure alarm using transformer and relay

Relay should be a 1 pole 2 throw device. This means that the armature move between two possible contacts. The diagram below shows the diagram of a 1-pole, 2-shot relay.

Relay (Electromagnetic Switch)

  • When there is electrical power, the relay is activated and the armature is connected to one throw. (contacts D and C are active)
  • When there is no electrical power, the relay is deactivated and the armature changes to the other throw and allows the activation of devices that give the alarm signal. (contacts C and E are active).

These devices (light, siren, etc.) can be powered with a different voltage source, it can be DC or AC. A DC source can be a 9V battery. See the first diagram.

You may also, like the main power failure alarm and battery backup circuit

List of circuits components

  • 1 miniature 120/240 to 12 VAC transformer (T)
  • 1 1N4001 rectifier diode or similar (D)
  • 1 470uF / 25 volts or more electrolytic capacitor (C)
  • 1 12/18-volt high-impedance relay

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