# FaultExplainer: Leveraging Large Language Models for Interpretable Fault Detection and Diagnosis

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2412.14492 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2412.14492/

## Key facts

- Cited by 1 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- Builds on 4 of its 47 references that are in the map.
- First posted on arXiv 19 Dec 2024.

## Builds on (most cited first, 4 of 4)

- [GPT-4 Technical Report](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2303.08774/) (2023)
- [Llama 2: Open Foundation and Fine-Tuned Chat Models](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2307.09288/) (2023)
- [LLaVA-Med: Training a Large Language-and-Vision Assistant for Biomedicine in One Day](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2306.00890/) (2023)
- [Graph-to-SFILES: Control structure prediction from process topologies using generative artificial intelligence](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2412.00508/) (2024)

## Built on by (most cited first, 1 of 1)

- [When LLMs Sit Above Diagnostic Tools: Unrealized Complementarity in Industrial Fault Diagnosis](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2610.05031/) (2026)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Machine learning algorithms are increasingly being applied to fault detection and diagnosis (FDD) in chemical processes. However, existing data-driven FDD platforms often lack interpretability for process operators and struggle to identify root causes of previously unseen faults. This paper presents FaultExplainer, an interactive tool designed to improve fault detection, diagnosis, and explanation in the Tennessee Eastman Process (TEP). FaultExplainer integrates real-time sensor data visualization, Principal Component Analysis (PCA)-based fault detection, and identification of top contributing variables within an interactive user interface powered by large language models (LLMs). We evaluate the LLMs' reasoning capabilities in two scenarios: one where historical root causes are provided, and one where they are not to mimic the challenge of previously unseen faults. Experimental results using GPT-4o and o1-preview models demonstrate the system's strengths in generating plausible and actionable explanations, while also highlighting its limitations, including reliance on PCA-selected features and occasional hallucinations.