TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY OF MOMBASA

SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC
ENGINEERING
BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY IN ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC
ENGINEERING

YEAR: 4 SEMESTER:1

UNIT CODE:TEE 4408

UNIT NAME:RELIABILITY TECHNOLOGY

LECTURE :MR SANDE

LABORATORY TECHNICIAN :MR MUASYA

TITLE:LABORATORY REPORT

NAME:MICHAEL MUIKIA

REGISTRATION NUMBER: BTEE/186J/2019

DATE OF ASSIGNMENT:20/02/2024
DATE OF SUBMISSION:27/02/2024
INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this laboratory report is to assess the reliability of Direct On line ( DOL) through
experimental analysis and data interpretation. Reliability Technology study
emphasizes dependability in the lifecycle management of a product or a process. Reliability is a
critical aspect of any technology, ensuring its consistent performance under varying conditions and
over extended periods. By examining the reliability of different components and systems, we aim to
enhance understanding and optimize performance in real-world applications.

OBJECTIVES

1. Characterize the reliability of electronic components use to make Direct On Line motor
starter.
2. Analyze failure modes and mechanisms to identify vulnerabilities and potential
improvements of Direct On Line motor starter.
3. Validate theoretical models e.g failures and predictive tools through experimental validation
.

EQUIPMENT USED

1. Fuses
2. 240v-24v transformer
3. Connecting wire.
4. Tripple pole switch.
5. Overload relay.
6. Contactor.
7. 3-phase motor.
8. Multimeter
9. Star and stop button
10. Indicator light.

BACKGROUND THEORY

Reliability engineering plays a crucial role in modern technological advancements across industries
such as electronics and telecommunications. It involves the systematic study and improvement of
reliability, encompassing factors like failure rates, mean time between failures (MTBF), and fault
tolerance. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of failure and implementing strategies to
mitigate risks are essential for ensuring product longevity and customer satisfaction.

We will focus on experimental methodologies and analytical techniques employed to evaluate the
reliability of Direct On Line DOL . This includes accelerated life testing, stress testing, failure analysis,
and statistical modelling. By subjecting components to controlled conditions and observing their
performance under stress, we can extrapolate their reliability characteristics and make informed
decisions regarding design, maintenance, and operational strategies.

The most simple motor start option, Direct on Line (DOL) starting directly connects an induction
motor to a 3-Ph power supply with the addition of a contactor and an overload relay, providing
overload protection

PROCEDURE TO THE ACTIVITIES

1. Using multimeter test for short circuit and open circuit of the above equipment used.
2. Connect the circuit as shown below.
 3. Start the motor by pressing start button.
4. When motor is running disconnect the red phase from the supply and note the observation.
5. Using 24 volt supply the pin 97-98 of the overload relay and note the observation.
6. Connect the motor in star start it note the observation, Connect the motor in delta and note
the observation.

Control circuits power circuit After assembly of circuit

ANALYSIS

• When the Red phase was disconnected from the main supply when the motor was still
running , the motor continued to run. This is because three phase motor run with two
winding , the third phase is required for starting purposes only.
• When the motor was stopped and red phase had been disconnected, trying to start it , it did
not start.
• When 24 volt was supplied to the pin 97-98 of the overload rely , the yellow light started
indicating the relay had tripped, the motor stopped immediately. This because this pin is
normally Closed when supplied with electricity it becomes open indicating fault making the
motor to stop.
• When the motor was connected in star it started faster , when connected I delta it started
at slowly.

CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED

1. During the laboratory session we were in bigger group of more than 30 people this did not
allow the students to effectively interact with the equipment provided.

CONCLUSION

• Overloading or overstressing a component, equipment or system beyond its capacity can

lead to failure e.g when relay pin 97-98 was over supplied.
• Undetectable defects e.g when the red phase was withdrawn the motor didn’t restart when
stopped. (cracks, internal physical material imperfections, emerging faults that are not yet
significant and change of material compositions due to various operational stresses), will
contribute to failure.
• Human errors-during open and short circuit test if human error occur could lead to failure.
 • Testing was done t the beginning of the experiment to apply technological knowledge and
specialist techniques to prevent or to reduce the likelihood or frequency of failures.

RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE CHALLENGES

1. I recommend Split the larger group into smaller groups, ideally with a manageable number
of students in each group. This will allow for better equipment access and more
opportunities for active participation and hands-on experience.

REFERENCE

1. Notes by Mr Sande.
2. Diagrams by Mr Muasya.
3. WWW.Chart gbt.com