Phase Angle Controlled AC-DC Converter

Precise full-wave AC-DC conversion with ESP32-controlled TRIAC firing and IoT-enabled remote alpha adjustment.

Technologies Used

ESP32 Optocoupler ZCD MOC3021 BT136 Triac Phase Angle Control Bridge Rectifier UART IoT

Started: April 20, 2025

Completed: May 5, 2025

Duration: 2 Weeks

Technical Specifications

Input

220V AC, 50Hz

Controller

ESP32

Output

0–200V DC

Accuracy

±5%

Project Overview

This system enables precise control of AC-DC conversion via phase-angle modulation. The ESP32 detects zero-crossing using an optocoupler, triggers the BT136 TRIAC via MOC3021, and rectifies the output to DC. Firing angle (alpha) is adjustable via UART or IoT.

Key Features

Zero Crossing Detection

Optocoupler-based accurate phase reference

TRIAC Triggering

MOC3021 isolates and drives BT136

Full-Wave Rectification

Bridge rectifier for stable DC output

Alpha Control

UART & IoT-based firing angle tuning

IoT Monitoring

Remote control and data logging

Achievements

Achieved ±5% Voltage Regulation Accuracy

Key Learnings

Phase-Angle Modulation

Mastered TRIAC firing delay calculation for precise DC output control.

ESP32 ZCD Interfacing

Implemented interrupt-driven zero-cross detection with optocoupler isolation.

IoT Power Control

Integrated Wi-Fi for remote alpha tuning and real-time monitoring.

Target Audience

  • Power electronics engineers
  • IoT & embedded systems developers
  • Industrial automation specialists
  • R&D and academic researchers

Applications

  • Battery charging systems
  • DC motor speed control
  • LED dimming & lighting
  • Industrial process control