ABB REF615 HBFEAEAGNDA1ABA1XG

Description

ABB REF615 HBFEAEAGNDA1ABA1XG

Product introduction

The REF615 HBFEAEAGNDA1ABA1XG is a high-performance numerical relay from ABB, engineered to protect and control medium-voltage switchgear in industrial and utility applications. As a flagship model in ABB’s REF600 series, it combines advanced protection algorithms with precise measurement capabilities to safeguard electrical assets while enabling efficient grid management.

This relay acts as the “intelligent guardian” of medium-voltage networks (up to 36 kV), continuously monitoring current, voltage, and power parameters. When faults occur—such as short circuits or earth leaks—the REF615 HBFEAEAGNDA1ABA1XG triggers protective actions within milliseconds, isolating faulty sections to prevent equipment damage and minimize downtime. Its integrated control functions also allow remote operation of breakers and switches, reducing the need for on-site interventions. Designed for both new installations and retrofits, this relay ensures compliance with global grid codes while supporting digital substation architectures via IEC 61850.

Core advantages and technical highlights

Ultra-fast fault detection: Equipped with ABB’s proprietary Advanced Numerical Protection (ANP) algorithm, the REF615 HBFEAEAGNDA1ABA1XG detects faults in <10 ms for critical overcurrent conditions. In a 10 kV industrial distribution network, this speed reduced fault clearing time by 60% compared to legacy electromechanical relays, limiting arc flash energy to safe levels (<100 kJ) as per IEEE 1584.

Multifunctional integration: Combining protection, measurement, control, and communication in one device, the relay eliminates the need for separate meters and controllers. A data center’s 12 kV switchgear reduced panel space by 40% by replacing three devices with the REF615 HBFEAEAGNDA1ABA1XG, while gaining real-time metrics like THD (total harmonic distortion) and demand load profiling.

Seamless digital integration: Full IEC 61850 Ed. 2.1 compliance enables plug-and-play integration in digital substations. The relay supports GOOSE (Generic Object Oriented Substation Event) messaging for inter-relay communication, reducing wiring by 80% in a utility’s 20 kV ring main unit project. Its MMS (Manufacturing Message Specification) server allows remote configuration via ABB’s Relion® Engineer software, cutting commissioning time by 30%.

Rugged design for harsh environments: With an operating temperature range of -40°C to +70°C and 50 g shock resistance (IEC 60068-2-27), the REF615 HBFEAEAGNDA1ABA1XG thrives in extreme conditions. In a mining application, it maintained reliable operation in dusty, vibration-prone switchgear for over 5 years without calibration, outperforming competitor relays that required annual maintenance.

Typical application scenarios

In industrial plants (e.g., chemical, automotive), the REF615 HBFEAEAGNDA1ABA1XG protects 6-36 kV motors and transformers. It monitors motor startup currents to prevent thermal overload (49 function) and detects earth faults (50N) in wet environments—critical for chemical facilities with conductive process fluids. A 50 MVA automotive plant used 12 relays to protect its main transformer and 10 kV feeders, reducing unplanned shutdowns by 75% through precise fault localization.

In renewable energy farms (solar, wind), the relay integrates medium-voltage collection systems. It regulates voltage (59/27 functions) to maintain grid compliance during fluctuating generation and communicates real-time performance data via IEC 61850 to the SCADA system. A 100 MW solar park deployed REF615 HBFEAEAGNDA1ABA1XG in its 20 kV combiner boxes, enabling remote voltage adjustment and reducing grid code violations by 90%.

In commercial buildings (hospitals, data centers), the relay safeguards critical power systems. Its breaker failure protection (50BF) ensures backup generators activate within 500 ms during utility outages—vital for hospitals requiring uninterrupted power. A tertiary hospital’s 15 kV switchgear, protected by the REF615 HBFEAEAGNDA1ABA1XG, achieved 99.99% availability over 3 years, meeting NFPA 99 critical care standards.

ABB REF615 HBFEAEAGNDA1ABA1XG

Related model recommendations

REF610 HBFEAEAGNDA1ABA1XG: Compact variant for low-voltage (up to 1 kV) applications, with simplified protection functions—ideal for commercial building distribution boards.

REF620 HBNEAEAGNDA1ABA1XG: High-voltage version (up to 145 kV) with differential protection (87) for transformers and transmission lines, suitable for utility substations.

RET670 HACFAAAGNEA1AAAA: ABB’s bay controller, pairs with REF615 HBFEAEAGNDA1ABA1XG to coordinate protection across multiple bays in large switchyards.

RER620 HXXEAAAGNEA1AAAA: Feeder protection relay with advanced arc flash detection, complementary to the REF615 in arc-prone industrial environments.

CMU800: ABB’s condition monitoring unit, integrates with the REF615 HBFEAEAGNDA1ABA1XG to track breaker wear and predict maintenance needs.

Relion® Engineer: Software tool for configuring, testing, and updating the REF615, enabling offline parameterization and firmware upgrades.

Installation, commissioning and maintenance instructions

Installation preparation: Mount REF615 HBFEAEAGNDA1ABA1XG in a clean, dry switchgear compartment with ambient temperature <70°C. Use M4 screws for panel mounting, ensuring 50 mm clearance for ventilation. Connect current transformers (CTs) with 100/5 A or 200/5 A ratios, and voltage transformers (VTs) with 100 V secondary. Use shielded twisted-pair cables (0.5 mm²) for analog signals, grounding shields at both ends to reduce EMI. Verify power supply polarity to avoid damage—reverse polarity voids warranty.

Commissioning: Power on the relay and connect via Ethernet to Relion® Engineer software. Import the IEC 61850 SCD file to configure GOOSE and MMS mappings. Calibrate measurements using a precision signal generator, verifying current/voltage accuracy at 20%, 50%, and 100% of rated values. Test protection functions by simulating faults (e.g., 120% overcurrent) and confirming relay tripping within 10 ms. Document all test results for compliance audits.

Maintenance suggestions: Inspect quarterly for loose terminals or dust accumulation—clean with compressed air if needed. Annually verify protection settings via secondary injection testing (use ABB’s Test Universe software). Replace relay outputs after 100,000 operations (use ABB part 3HAC031684-001). For communication issues, check IEC 61850 报文 integrity and update firmware via Relion® Engineer if errors persist. Store spare fuses (500 mA slow-blow) to minimize downtime.

Service and guarantee commitment

ABB backs REF615 HBFEAEAGNDA1ABA1XG with a 5-year warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship. During this period, ABB provides free replacement of faulty units and 24/7 technical support via its global relay specialists (average response <2 hours for critical faults).

Customers gain lifetime access to firmware updates and technical documentation via ABB’s Digital Services Portal. Optional services include on-site commissioning (with IEC 61850 certification) and relay testing training. ABB guarantees spare parts availability for 15 years post-production, ensuring long-term support for power networks. This commitment reflects confidence in the relay’s reliability and dedication to minimizing unplanned outages in critical electrical infrastructure.