ABB REF601 Feeder protection relay

Description

The ABB REF601 is a dedicated feeder protection and control relay designed for the protection and control of utility and industrial power systems in both primary and secondary distribution networks. It integrates protection, monitoring, and control functionalities in one compact unit, offering optimized performance and usability.

The REF601 supports both a conventional current transformer (CT) interface and a Rogowski current sensor interface, enabling compact medium-voltage switchgear designs with improved performance and standardization.

Scope of Application

• Main protection for overhead lines and cable feeders in solidly earthed, resistance-earthed, or isolated networks

• Inrush current stabilization for distribution transformers

Product Benefits

• Compact, flexible, and easy to handle

• Fast commissioning via selective test function for protection, binary signals, and communication features

• Easily configurable binary inputs and outputs

• Extensive self-supervision of hardware and software

• Enhanced safety with sensor variants and detachable terminals with CT shorting facility

• Press-fit mounting for quick installation

Product Features

• Protection functions: overcurrent, earth fault, phase discontinuity, negative phase sequence, thermal overload, inrush current detection

• Control functions: circuit breaker control, reclosing, and measurement

• Preconfigured functionality for quick commissioning

• Universal power supply: 24–265 V AC/DC

• Configurable binary I/O via local HMI or communication interface

• Variant with site-selectable CT rating (1 A or 5 A), Boolean logic, and timers

• Communication protocols: site-selectable Modbus and IEC 60870-5-103

ABB Numerical Relays – Overview

ABB numerical relays utilize microprocessor technology, offering significant flexibility compared to conventional electromechanical and static relays. Unlike fixed-wiring relays with manual settings, numerical relays are programmable, allowing configuration of characteristics and behavior. Most are multifunctional and suitable for modern protection needs.

Scope of Application

• Modern multifunctional protection relays

Product Benefits

• Ensures continuity of power supply to consumers

• Protects network assets

• Safeguards against life-threatening electrical incidents

Product Features

• Self-checking functionality

• Low-burden relays for improved accuracy

• High-speed fiber optic communication with substation LAN

• Adaptive relaying schemes

• Storage of historical operational data

• Event time-stamping capability